As women undergo menopause, hormonal changes, especially in estrogen levels, can significantly impact heart health. Estrogen, known for its protective role in maintaining healthy blood vessels and cholesterol levels, experiences alterations post-menopause. Dr. Mukti Harne Paithankar, Consultant – OBGY, Infertility Specialist, and Laparoscopic Surgeon at Manipal Hospital Gurugram, provides essential tips for women to safeguard their heart health during the post-menopausal phase.
1. Cholesterol Management:
- Synopsis: Women post-menopause often witness an increase in LDL (bad) cholesterol and a decrease in HDL (good) cholesterol levels. Prioritizing a heart-healthy diet low in saturated and trans fats, coupled with regular exercise, becomes crucial for effective cholesterol management.
2. Blood Pressure Control:
- Synopsis: The risk of high blood pressure rises post-menopause. Regular monitoring and adherence to lifestyle modifications or prescribed medications help in maintaining optimal blood pressure levels, reducing the risk of heart-related issues.
3. Diabetes Prevention:
- Synopsis: Post-menopausal women face an elevated risk of developing type 2 diabetes, a significant contributor to heart disease. Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, and adopting a balanced diet play key roles in preventing or managing diabetes.
4. Regular Screening:
- Synopsis: Regular health screenings, encompassing blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar levels, are vital for assessing heart disease risk. Additional diagnostic tests, like ECGs or stress tests, may be recommended based on individual risk factors and symptoms.
5. Lifestyle Modifications:
- Synopsis: Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle is paramount. Measures such as maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, managing stress, and ensuring adequate sleep collectively contribute to better heart health post-menopause.
In some cases, hormone therapy may be suggested to manage menopausal symptoms and potentially lower the risk of heart disease. Dr. Paithankar emphasizes the proactive role women should play in their post-menopausal heart health, as it significantly influences overall quality of life and longevity.
