Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women, and this alarming statistic underscores the importance of the American Heart Association’s (AHA) “Go Red for Women” campaign. Since 2004, February has been the signature month for this initiative, aiming to educate women about the risks of cardiovascular disease and inspire them to take proactive steps toward heart health.
As a specialty emergency care facility, Elite Hospital Kingwood often treats patients experiencing cardiovascular events, including heart attack, arrhythmia, heart failure, stroke, angina and more. For women, recognizing the signs and knowing when to seek emergency care can make all the difference in saving lives.
Heart Disease in Women: The Silent Threat
The AHA’s “Go Red for Women” campaign highlights a critical reality: heart disease is not just a man’s problem. One in three women dies of heart disease annually, yet many women are unaware of their unique risk factors and symptoms (Mayo Clinic). Unlike men, who often experience classic chest pain during a heart attack, women may encounter more subtle signs, such as:
- Unusual fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Pain in the neck, jaw, back, or upper abdomen
These symptoms can easily be mistaken for less severe conditions, delaying critical treatment (Mayo Clinic). If you or someone you know in Kingwood experiences these symptoms, it’s critical to seek emergency care immediately at Elite Hospital Kingwood, where board-certified emergency medicine physicians are available 24/7. If you believe it is a life-threatening emergency, dial 911.
Why Awareness Matters
Heart disease is preventable in many cases. Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and managing stress can significantly reduce risk factors (National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute).
However, some risk factors, such as family history, high blood pressure, or diabetes, require medical intervention and monitoring. Regular check-ups and cardiovascular screenings are essential for early detection and prevention.
When to Visit the ER
Knowing when to visit the emergency room is vital for women experiencing heart-related symptoms. Time is critical during a cardiovascular event, as delays in treatment can lead to irreversible damage or even death. If you’re unsure whether your symptoms warrant a visit to the ER, consider the following signs of a heart attack or stroke:
Heart Attack Symptoms in Women
- Pressure, squeezing, or pain in the chest lasting more than a few minutes
- Pain spreading to the arms, neck, or jaw
- Cold sweats and extreme fatigue (Mayo Clinic)
Stroke Symptoms
- Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
- Loss of balance or coordination (National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute)
Elite Hospital Kingwood’s advanced diagnostic tools, including CT scans, X-rays, and ultrasounds, allow our emergency team to quickly identify and treat these life-threatening conditions. Our facility is open 24/7, ensuring that you receive immediate, high-quality care when you need it most.
How to Support the Go Red for Women Campaign
In addition to seeking care when necessary, you can support the Go Red for Women campaign by spreading awareness and encouraging loved ones to prioritize their heart health. Consider participating in local events or fundraisers that benefit the AHA.
Furthermore, educate yourself and others about heart disease prevention. The AHA’s website offers valuable resources, and Elite Hospital Kingwood’s blog provides insights on heart health topics relevant to our community.
The American Heart Association’s Houston office is located at 10060 Buffalo Speedway, Houston, TX 77054.
You can contact them by phone at 832-918-4000.
For more information about their programs, events, and resources, visit their website at www.heart.org.
Additionally, for details specific to Texas, including local events and initiatives, you can explore their Texas affiliate page at www.heart.org/en/affiliates/texas/.
Your Trusted Emergency Care in Kingwood, TX
Elite Hospital Kingwood is committed to providing exceptional emergency care to our community. With a team of dedicated and compassionate board-certified emergency physicians, state-of-the-art diagnostic technology, and 24/7 availability, we are here to serve you and your family in times of need. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms of heart disease or any other medical emergency, trust us to deliver compassionate, expert care.
Contact Us
23330 US Hwy 59 North, Kingwood, TX 77339
Phone: (832) 777-6165
Website: elitekingwood.com
Works Cited
American Heart Association. “Go Red for Women.” American Heart Association, 2024, www.heart.org/en/affiliates/texas-go-red-for-women.
Mayo Clinic. “Heart Disease in Women: Understand Symptoms and Risk Factors.” Mayo Clinic, 2024, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-disease/in-depth/heart-disease/art-20046167.
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. “Heart Attack Symptoms in Women.” NHLBI, 2024, www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/heart-attack-women.