Heart Health: A Silent Risk Women Can’t Ignore
Most people associate heart attacks with crushing chest pain and dramatic collapses, but the reality—especially for women—can be very different. Heart disease is the number one killer of women, yet many remain unaware of the subtle warning signs and hidden risks that can lead to life-threatening emergencies.
Unlike men, who often experience the classic signs of a heart attack like chest pain and left arm discomfort, women may feel fatigue, nausea, dizziness, jaw pain, or even mild discomfort in the back or neck. These symptoms are often brushed off as stress, indigestion, or exhaustion—until it’s too late.
I know this firsthand. My mother, Anne Blanchard (Shea), was one of those women who didn’t realize she was having a heart attack. She thought she had simply pulled a muscle or was experiencing general soreness in her upper back and shoulder area. She neglected going to the hospital for three days, and by the time she finally saw a doctor, her heart had already suffered significant damage. They rushed her in for emergency surgery, but her heart muscle was too weak. Even after a successful procedure, she did not recover and passed away a few days later at the age of 71.
One of the biggest hidden risks for heart attacks and strokes is blocked arteries—when fatty deposits build up in your blood vessels, slowing or stopping the flow of oxygen-rich blood to your heart and brain. If left undetected, this can lead to sudden strokes, causing irreversible damage or death. Often there are NO SYMPTOMS.
That’s why early detection is crucial, and a simple screening can save lives. If you live in Broward County, FL, you have access to a FREE blocked artery screening that could help detect potential blockages before they become life-threatening. Take advantage of this opportunity by visiting Take Heart Test.
This screening is painless, quick, and could be the most important step you take for your health. Whether you have a family history of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or simply want to be proactive, now is the time to act.
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Prevention starts today. Share this information with the women in your life, and encourage them to get screened. It could mean the difference between life and loss.
Protect your heart. Get screened. Stay informed.