February is American Heart Month, and February 7th is National Wear Red For Women Day to support women’s heart health.
Wearing red on February 7th helps raise awareness for heart-related illnesses and diseases that primarily affect women. According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the number one killer of women. In fact, heart disease kills more women than all forms of cancer combined. In honor of Wear Red For Women Day, here’s everything you need to know about women’s heart health:
Signs Of Heart Attacks In Women
Did you know that in women, heart attacks often present differently than just chest pain? Women who are at risk for heart attacks may feel shortness of breath, cold sweats, unusual fatigue, or pain or numbness in one or both arms. Additionally, they may feel dizzy or faint, experience nausea or indigestion, or feel pain or numbness in their upper back, jaw, or shoulders.
How You Can Keep Your Heart Healthy
There are a variety of ways to make sure that your heart stays healthy throughout your life. According to Cleveland Clinic, quitting smoking reduces your risk of heart disease by at least 50 percent. You should also eat a healthy, balanced diet every day and aim to get 30 minutes of exercise at least five days per week. Low-impact exercise, like short walks or yoga, is a great way to promote good heart health. And of course, make sure that you make regular appointments with your primary physician to check your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood glucose levels!
How You Can Spread Heart Health Awareness On National Wear Red Day
There are many ways to help spread heart disease and heart health awareness on National Wear Red For Women Day. Wear a red shirt or a red pin and post a photo of yourself on social media with the hashtag #GoRedWearRed. If you have a personal story of someone who’s struggled with heart disease or if you have been affected by heart disease yourself, today is also a great day to share those stories. For instance, I have a congenital heart defect, so every year on Wear Red Day, I tell my story and share how important it is to take care of your heart. Another excellent way to help promote heart health is to donate to the American Heart Association or purchase GoRed gear from their website.
This Wear Red Day (and every day), make sure that you take good care of your heart to prevent heart disease. Know the signs of a heart attack, take steps to improve your heart health, and of course, wear red today for women’s heart health!
Featured Photo by Naassom Azevedo on Unsplash.
