When the ovaries stop producing estrogen at menopause, this protection is lost and the risk of heart disease increases dramatically. After menopause, women are as likely as men to have a heart attack. If you have close relatives who have or had heart disease, heart attack, or stroke, especially before age 50, the risk of heart disease is increased, and you should be very diligent about reducing other risk factors, such as high blood pressure or a high total cholesterol level. Blood pressure High blood pressure is a powerful risk factor for heart disease and the best way be aware of it is to have it measured regularly. Maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle Do not smoke.
Smoking is responsible for one out of four cases of heart disease.
Maintain a healthy weight. Reduce the stress in your life. Learn about hormone replacement therapy. Replacing the estrogen your body no longer produces after menopause can cut in half your risk of heart attack and stroke. Know the significance of chest pain.