Marshall Health Network Raises Awareness of Heart Disease in Women

This February, in honor of American Heart Month, Marshall Health Network – St. Mary’s Heart Institute is urging women to learn the symptoms, take heart health seriously and act immediately if they suspect a heart attack.

Unlike the dramatic chest-clutching pain often portrayed in movies, women's heart attack symptoms can be more subtle and are often mistaken for less serious conditions. 

Warning signs may include:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Heartburn-like discomfort or loss of appetite
• Pain, numbness, or discomfort in the back, neck, or jaw
• Pressure or squeezing in the chest
• Unexplained cough
• Shortness of breath or trouble breathing
• Light-headedness or sudden dizziness
• Unexplained fatigue

 "By recognizing the warning signs and making lifestyle changes, women can take control of their heart health and improve their quality of life," said Melissa Mielcarek, MSHA, MBA, FACHE, Vice President of Cardiovascular Services for Marshall Health Network. "Heart disease is largely preventable, and awareness is the first step toward saving lives."

The good news? Women can significantly lower their risk by adopting heart-healthy habits:

• Know your risk: Understand your family history, blood pressure, cholesterol levels and other key indicators.
• Eat heart-healthy foods: Choose a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
• Stay active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
• Quit smoking: Smoking doubles the risk of heart disease.
• Manage stress: Prioritize self-care, relaxation and healthy coping strategies.

For more information about women’s heart health and how to reduce your risk, visit St. Mary’s Heart Institute at st.marys.org/heart.