A recent study reveals that heart disease is the leading cause of death among American women, with many cases going undiagnosed due to less recognizable symptoms. One such case is Alex Hawkins, a Sioux Falls woman who was hospitalized after a heart attack.
Hawkins initially dismissed her symptoms, feeling only hot and thinking it was indigestion. However, she eventually sought medical attention after experiencing jaw pain. Medical professionals at the North Central Heart Institute diagnosed the blockage in her heart and performed treatment to remove it before permanent damage was done.
Dr. Sherrie Brooks, a cardiologist at the institute, emphasizes that women often overlook their symptoms or underestimate their risk. She stresses the importance of being aware of one’s health history and numbers, such as cholesterol levels, to determine individual risk factors.
Cardiac rehab was helpful for Hawkins in recovering from her heart attack. Dr. Brooks encourages women to listen to their bodies and seek help if they experience unusual or classic symptoms associated with heart disease.
Reviewing medical history and knowing personal risk factors can help prevent the threat of heart disease. A Planet Heart screening can provide valuable insights into cholesterol levels and other factors, enabling individuals to establish a plan for prevention and early detection.
For more information on heart health and screenings, visit www.avera.org/medicalminute.
Source: https://www.dakotanewsnow.com/2025/02/04/avera-medical-minute-understanding-heart-disease-women