Although typically viewed as a disease more prevalent in men, heart disease is the leading cause of death among American women. Lancaster General Heart Center treats more cardiac care patients than any other hospital in Lancaster County and takes pride in the expertise and teamwork of its talented cardiologists, surgeons, nurses and technical staff. Recognized as a leader and innovator in cardiovascular care, the Heart Center provides screening, diagnosis, a broad range of treatment options, as well as cardiac rehabilitation and educational programs. To learn more, call (717) 544-4971.

Reduce Your Risk

The female hormone estrogen helps protect your heart and arteries against cholesterol that clogs blood vessels. But, after menopause, your level of estrogen drops and you lose the benefit of this protection. You can take any or all of these steps before and after menopause to reduce your risk of heart disease.

• Monitor and reduce your cholesterol level with diet, exercise or medication
• Monitor and control high blood pressure
• Exercise regularly
• Manage your weight
• Don’t smoke

Education—Your Most Powerful Tool for Prevention

The best way to keep your heart healthy is to arm yourself with information. The Lancaster General Heart Center offers lectures and information sessions that can help you take control of your health.

Although heart attack symptoms vary from person to person, a classic warning sign is chest pain. Some describe it as a feeling of pressure, heaviness, fullness, or a squeezing or crushing sensation. Women frequently report additional symptoms, such as nausea, indigestion, sweating, shortness of breath, extreme fatigue, unexplained anxiety, palpitations, lightheadedness, fainting, or pain or discomfort in the back, shoulders, jaw, neck or arms. If any of these symptoms last longer than 5 minutes, get medical attention! Women tend to wait longer than men to call for help. Don’t make this mistake!