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Women, remember that by staying informed and making smart lifestyle choices, you can take charge of your health and keep your heart strong during and after menopause
Menopause is one of the major milestones in a woman’s life. It means the end of her reproductive years and starts with various symptoms that can affect her overall well-being
It is a known fact that menopause leads to several physical and emotional changes, but one of the most significant and often overlooked is its impact on heart health. Yes, that’s right! Understanding this connection is crucial for preventing cardiovascular problems in women.
Menopause is one of the major milestones in a woman’s life. It means the end of her reproductive years and starts with various symptoms that can affect her overall well-being. Among the most serious but lesser-known risks during this transition is the increased vulnerability to cardiovascular disease (CVD). As estrogen levels drop, the protective effect this hormone offers to the heart diminishes, making post-menopausal women more prone to heart-related issues. Menopause tends to occur between 45-55 and is diagnosed when a woman hasn’t had a menstrual period for over a year. It causes various physical and emotional changes due to a decline in estrogen and progesterone hormones.
Dr Bipeenchandra Bhamre, Consultant Cardiac Surgeon, Sir H. N. Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai shares all you need to know:
Symptoms
Hot flashes
Night sweats
Mood swings
Sleep disturbances
Vaginal dryness
Irregular or missed periods
Complications: While these symptoms are well known, menopause can also lead to long-term health concerns, including osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. Many women are unaware of the increased heart disease risk linked to menopause.
Menopause and heart disease: what’s the connection?
Menopause can also induce heart problems in some women.
Estrogen plays an important role in maintaining healthy blood vessels and managing cholesterol levels. When estrogen levels drop after menopause:
LDL (bad cholesterol) levels may rise
HDL (good cholesterol) may decrease
Blood pressure might increase
Arteries can become stiffer
These changes raise the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions. Menopausal women need to go for timely check-ups and stay in touch with their doctor. The doctor can recommend cardiac screening after every 6 months or a year, depending on one’s family history. Those women with pre-existing heart problems and who are menopausal should be extra vigilant. Take care of your heart and stay healthy. Stay vigilant when it comes to your heart health.
Tips for women to protect their hearts during menopause
Eat heart-healthy foods: Make sure to include whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats. Limit salt and processed food. It is necessary to avoid junk, oily, canned, and processed foods, stay hydrated by drinking enough water, and take any supplements after the expert.
Stay active: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise five days a week. You can opt for running, gymming, yoga, Pilates, swimming, and cycling.
Monitor Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: Regular check-ups can help manage risk factors early. Take medication as directed by your doctor.
Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity increases the risk of heart disease. Hence, maintain an optimum weight.
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol: These habits can strain the heart.
Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to de-stress and stay calm.
Women, remember that by staying informed and making smart lifestyle choices, you can take charge of your health and keep your heart strong during and after menopause. Adhere to these vital tips, and you will surely be able to protect your heart.
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More
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