The best tests for diagnosing heart disease in women are the technetium and stress echocardiogram imaging tests. In the technetium, the woman walks on a treadmill while a radioactive isotope is injected into the bloodstream to track blood flow. If you quit smoking, your risk for heart attack is cut in half one year later. You also improve your blood flow and lung function, lower your risk for stroke and cancer, and help stop bronchitis and emphysema from worsening. Patients with high blood pressure should control their weight, consume moderate portions of alcohol and salt, and get enough exercise.
Blood cholesterol is another important factor to watch.
A high level of LDL cholesterol increases your risk for heart disease, as does a low level of HDL cholesterol. All adults 20 years of age or older should have their blood cholesterol level checked at least once every five years. However, it isn't clear if this is how alcohol lowers the risk of heart attack. Individuals should consult with their doctor, and should not use alcohol in place of confirmed preventive measures. Women at risk may want to consider estrogen replacement in postmenopause, especially if they have other risk factors, like high cholesterol.