Heart disease is the primary killer among woman and typically occurs when the arteries of the heart are blocked. Although heart attacks and cardiovascular disease were thought to happen solely to middle age or senior women, the condition is on the rise for the younger set.

Stress and Millennials

Millennials are driven and have now surpassed the generation Xers in the American workforce. With the focus on career and climbing the corporate ladder comes a lot of added stress and anxiety for the younger generation. Although education, career and family were the primary goals for baby boomers, millennials have their mind set on achieving success much sooner than their parents and grandparents. While they may purchase a home and have their sights set on working toward an early retirement, burning the candle at all ends can really damage the body.

Who is At Risk?

Medical professionals can do their part to assist younger women by being more observant in their assessments. It’s easy to misdiagnose the pain, especially in a woman so young. But staying alert to those who have high cholesterol or high blood pressure and a past history of heart disease in the family could prove life-saving.If a prior cardiovascular event has occurred it may be worth looking into equipping the house with a good medical alert system in case of a further emergency. Other bad habits such as smoking can contribute to the younger generation’s boost in heart disease. You can reduce your chances greatly by stop smoking for good. Although health is the primary reason to quit, cigarettes are costly, and you could put the money spent to better use. If you find it hard stop, there are a number of tools on the market to help wean yourself off this nasty habit.

Why Women Fail to Get Help?

With an average 15,000 women age 55 and younger dying every year of heart disease, many are wondering if more could have been done to save them. Based on published research, women between the ages of 30 and 55 delayed getting assistance because they had difficulties deciphering the symptoms. Similar to men, heart attack symptoms usually occur in the chest. But females are more likely to experience other ailments such as jaw and back pain, vomiting and shortness of breath. Even after it was suspected that something wasn’t right, some women were hesitant to seek assistance for fear of being looked upon as a hypochondriac.

Other Important Factors

Although the reasons aren’t clear as why the rise in young women and heart attacks, experts say that other factors such as type 2 diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure are to blame. Individuals who are obese have a resistance to insulin. This could lead to conditions such as diabetes and heart disease if left unchecked. Researchers have also learned about gut bacteria, and its link to diseases such as coronary. Environmental toxins, antibiotics found in protein and pesticides can also be linked to blocked arteries. Stress, pregnancy and childbirth can also take a toll on the female body and boost a woman’s chances to form blood clots.

What You Need to Know

Heart disease is preventable. You can begin to lower your risk by taking a proactive approach to your own health by tracking your family history. If there is a risk, speak with your doctor, so they can begin the proper tests. Exercising just 30 minutes a day by walking can be enough to cut your risk in half. Food is equally important in lowering your risk of a heart attack. If you normally eat out on a daily basis, cut back to only once per week. Grocery stores have an amazing selection of easy to grab fruits, veggies and whole-grains that are sliced, packaged and ready to enjoy.

Thanks to movements such as Go Red For Women, there is significant awareness surrounding this serious issue. No matter what your age, you can take the initiative by putting your own health first and getting assistance the minute something doesn’t feel right.