On a sunny day in 2009, I welcomed my neighbor, Tom, back from a beach vacation, expecting tales of sun-soaked fun. Instead, I was met with tears and a pale face. His 38-year-old niece, a seemingly healthy woman, had suffered cardiac arrest at their rental. Tom was the only one there when she collapsed, but he knew how to perform CPR, keeping her alive until help arrived. After several days in a coma, she woke up, much to everyone’s amazement, thanks to her uncle’s quick thinking.
Listening to Tom’s story hit hard—after all, I was the same age as his niece, juggling two kids and often neglecting my own health checkups. It’s staggering to realize that heart disease is the leading cause of death for women, often overshadowed by breast cancer. In fact, women are more likely to have a fatal heart incident than to die from breast cancer. This harsh reality made me schedule a doctor’s appointment for a thorough evaluation.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Women often experience heart disease symptoms differently than men. They might dismiss signs like fatigue or shortness of breath as just a normal part of motherhood. The most common symptom in women is chest discomfort, but there are others:
- Pain or discomfort in the neck, jaw, shoulder, upper back, or abdomen
- Shortness of breath
- Pain in one or both arms
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sweating
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Unusual fatigue
Sure, as mothers, we all experience these feelings daily, especially when dealing with toddlers. But if these symptoms persist, it’s crucial to see a doctor immediately. You want to be around to witness those big life moments—like walking your son down the aisle or cheering for your daughter at her PhD graduation.
Supporting Friends and Family
Being aware of heart disease symptoms isn’t just about self-care; it’s also about looking out for friends. You might be at a playdate or a moms’ night out and hear a friend mention concerning symptoms. Encourage her to seek medical attention and offer to help out with her kids while she gets checked. After all, good friends support each other’s health journeys.
Be Prepared
But knowing the signs isn’t enough. Being equipped with CPR knowledge and knowing where defibrillators are located in your community could save a life. Familiarize yourself with these locations in schools, community centers, and other public buildings. Taking a CPR class through the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross can prepare you for emergencies, ensuring you’re not left helpless in a crisis.
Heart disease is a serious issue, and I’m sure Tom’s niece is eternally grateful that her uncle recognized her symptoms. So, do yourself a favor: take care of your heart. Quit smoking, eat healthier, and get out for a brisk walk. You owe it to yourself and your loved ones.
If you suspect you’re having cardiac symptoms, don’t hesitate—call for emergency help right away. Don’t drive yourself to the hospital. Stay calm until help arrives, and remember, your health is worth it.
If you’re curious about the journey to motherhood, check out our post on intrauterine insemination, or explore home insemination kits for more information on starting your family.