Matters of the Heart

FOR WOMEN, the risks and symptoms of heart disease can be unique, and experts agree that special efforts are needed to make awareness a priority for women of all ages. Because cardiovascular disease is statistically the greatest health threat facing women one in three women experiences some form of cardiovascular disease bringing the message of prevention, diagnosis and treatment to their attention can have a lasting impact on the overall health of our population today. In addition, because women are often at the center of family health habits and dietary decisions, their active involvement can have a positive effect for generations to come.

Heart Disease Prevention is the Key Preventing heart disease is easier than most Americans think. According to the American Heart Association, prevention means embracing a heart healthy lifestyle, which involves a proper diet, plenty of exercise, and avoidance of tobacco. “Learning the art of discipline when it comes to eating right and exercising is the greatest hurdle when it comes to heart healthy living,” said Marianela Areces, MD, a Cleveland Clinic cardiologist and a specialist in preventive cardiology and heart disease in women. Dr. Areces noted that women and men of all ages, in all risk categories, should pursue heart healthy routines. “By making diet and exercise a family matter, good habits and attention to health can be passed down from parents to children. It is never too early to start taking care of your heart,” added Dr. Areces. Research has shown that getting 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity on most days of the week can help lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol and control weight. Even if this amount of activity is not possible, experts agree that some exercise is much better than none at all. In many families, women serve as the unspoken director of family health and fitness, scheduling medical visits, determining breakfast, lunch and dinner menus, and planning activities. As a result, their ability to engage in good diet and exercise routines can have a broad impact.

For Maria Paredes, the task of managing a new approach to diet has been a top priority since her husband was diagnosed with severe cardiovascular disease. Luis Paredes, 67, suffered from clogged arteries and extreme high blood pressure that could not be controlled with medication. At Cleveland Clinic, he underwent a quadruple heart bypass surgery in March 2007, and working with physicians he has recovered and embarked on a new path to heart healthy living. Ever at Luis’s side, Maria has always found profound pleasure in taking care of her husband and their three children. After 47 years of marriage, she is more involved in Luis’s health today than ever, and has even consulted with internist Dalia McCoy, MD, at Cleveland Clinic to develop diet and exercise regimens. Maria now prepares heart healthy meals for her husband that are low in fat and cholesterol. The meals she cooks include more fish, fruits and vegetables, and she has eliminated red meats. She reads food labels carefully, screening for sodium and fat. “I had to learn the good foods from the bad foods,” Maria said. “The process has been educational.” The changes that she’s made for her husband have not only saved his life, but have benefited her as well. Occasionally she exercises with her husband, and since they’ve incorporated a heart healthy diet she has lost 15 pounds. “Step by step, we’ve adopted a healthier lifestyle and the results have been magnificent.”

Recognizing and Treating Heart Disease For women who face heart disease, understanding its symptoms, and knowing when a heart attack or stroke is occurring can represent the keys to surviving and going on to live healthier lives. Once the disease is diagnosed, or in the wake of a serious event, finding the best possible treatment and care is also critical. Mercedes Dullum, MD, a cardiothoracic surgeon at Cleveland Clinic, noted that women not only face unique symptoms as heart disease progresses, they also face unique hurdles as they seek and receive treatment. “Women are often focused on caring for their families, but we must not forget to make our own health a priority as well,” said Dr. Dullum. “While prevention is always the best strategy, women who find themselves with heart disease need to know its symptoms, and they need to act quickly to get the treatment and care they need.” According to Dr. Dullum, symptoms for women are often more subtle than for men. Heart disease is more likely to bring about extreme tiredness and fatigue in women, and in the event of a heart attack, they are more likely than men to experience symptoms like shortness of breath and nausea. Thanks to advancements in treatment those who suffer from heart disease, and victims of heart attack or stroke, often have shorter recovery times after treatment. With the help of experts in nutrition and exercise, they are also able to improve their long-term health outlook. At Cleveland Clinic, Dr. Dullum and her colleague Doug Boyd, MD, have pioneered beating heart surgery, which has proven to be very effective for women. In addition, Cleveland Clinic is a leader in the area of minimally invasive robotic surgery. “At Cleveland Clinic, we recognize that the heart care strategies we recommend must be embraced by the patient and the patient’s family,” said Dr. Areces. “It’s a healthcare partnership that we are proud to be a part of.”