By Laura Williamson, American Heart Association News | Contributor
For numerous teenage girls, hearts symbolize communication. Their texts are often adorned with heart emojis, and heart-shaped hand gestures embellish their social media selfies.
However, it is uncommon for a girl to recognize her heart as an essential organ — the center of the circulatory system, responsible for delivering oxygenated blood throughout the body to ensure everything functions effectively.
Although most young females may take good heart health for granted, adolescent health experts stress that there are several vital aspects teenage girls should understand regarding heart care.
Here are five key points to consider:
The foundation of heart health is laid now
The lifestyle choices made during adolescence – such as engaging in regular physical activity and following a nutritious diet – can significantly influence future cardiovascular health, according to experts like pediatric cardiologistDr. Teresa Lee.
“The earlier, the better,” remarked Lee, an assistant professor of pediatrics at Columbia University Medical Center in New York. “Preventing heart disease is far more advantageous than treating it later. The decisions and habits formed in early life and during adolescence have lasting effects on health and wellness.”
Research indicates that atherosclerosis, or the hardening of arteries due to plaque accumulation, may commence in the adolescent years. Affected arteries can obstruct blood flow, potentially resulting in heart attacks, strokes, or various health issues as one ages.
Unfavorable lifestyle choices, including poor diet, smoking, inactivity, obesity, and excess weight, can elevate cholesterol levels, a significant risk factor for heart disease and strokes.
Statistics from the American Heart Association highlight that teens may present with various cardiovascular risk factors: elevated blood pressure, tobacco use, high cholesterol, sedentary lifestyles, obesity, and unhealthy eating habits.
“The surge in weight among many teens linked to unhealthy eating and minimal physical activity can pose lifelong challenges regarding weight management, impacting their heart health,” statedDr. Judith Simms-Cendan, director of pediatric adolescent gynecology at the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine. “Teens who are not active often experience irregular sleep patterns, which can also negatively affect heart health.”
The AHA encourages adolescents to adopt healthful behaviors proven to support optimal heart health in adults, including maintaining an active lifestyle, consuming a diet rich in fiber, fruits and vegetables, managing weight, ensuring good sleep, and avoiding tobacco products, including e-cigarettes.
Simms-Cendan suggests that engaging in organized sports, dance, or fitness classes is a great way to begin.
“Being involved in sports, whether you’re a competitive athlete or not, positions you for a healthier heart in the future,” she noted.
Pay attention to your heart
While most teens will have healthy hearts, it’s essential to recognize any unusual signs or symptoms and discuss them promptly, according to Lee.
“For instance, if you find that an activity you used to do becomes hard or impossible, it may indicate an issue,” she advised. “You are the best judge of any changes in your health.”
Ceirra Zeager* from Ephrata, Pennsylvania, believed her heart was fine until she collapsed while getting dressed shortly after her first high school dance.
“Heart disease doesn’t discriminate by age,” said Zeager, who suffered a heart attack at 14 due to an undetected hole in her heart. “I was otherwise healthy, but the pain was unbearable.”
Now 23, Zeager volunteers with the AHA’s Go Red for Women campaign, urging teenage girls to ask health professionals about heart health and to be mindful of what they feel. “It is crucial to recognize irregular heartbeats, also known as arrhythmias,” she explained. “Understanding this basic information is beneficial.”
While irregular rhythms can stem from various causes and may not indicate serious issues, they should not be overlooked. Zeager mentioned that her heart murmur could have been identified with a stethoscope. “If only I had known to ask,” she lamented.
Peers can also provide insights into one’s health, according to Lee.
“If you notice that, in comparison to friends, your ability to engage in physical activities is declining, especially over time, it might be worth discussing with a parent or healthcare provider,” she said.
Even if everything appears fine, “it’s always appropriate” to inquire about heart health, Lee added. Routine wellness check-ups present an excellent opportunity for discussions about cardiovascular well-being and any associated risk factors.
Teen pregnancy impacts heart health
Lee remarked, “Pregnancy presents significant stress for anyone, and it can be especially taxing on heart health.”
Pregnant teens face an elevated risk for developing preeclampsia, a condition associated with dangerously high blood pressure.
This situation can be even more complicated if a teen has pre-existing congenital heart defects or cardiovascular risk factors like obesity or hypertension, potentially resulting in pregnancy-related complications.
“Certain contraception methods are safer for girls with heart conditions,” Simms-Cendan indicated, noting that birth control options containing progestin are preferable for these individuals.
While estrogen-containing contraceptive pills may be safer for generally healthy teens, those with underlying heart conditions and factors like uncontrolled hypertension should avoid them, as they could exacerbate blood pressure issues and related complications.
“Many girls who are at the highest risk for unintended pregnancy affecting their heart health lack access to contraceptive guidance,” Simms-Cendan mentioned. “A significant gap exists in care, ensuring that girls with heart issues considering sexual activity have appropriate birth control options. If pregnancy occurs, it is critical to seek immediate prenatal care.”
Not every sensation is a heart issue
A rapid heartbeat might suggest cardiac problems, but it could also be due to anxiety, which has surged among teens since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Simms-Cendan explained, “Anxiety can cause teens to experience heart palpitations. It can be disconcerting, but if their heart is healthy, they are likely not in danger.”
Nevertheless, such symptoms should always be evaluated, she cautioned. If anxiety is the root cause, it also requires treatment.
Mental health issues can significantly affect overall health, including heart health, Simms-Cendan noted. “They can influence energy levels and motivation to be active. Depressed teens may choose to spend extensive time in bed as an escape.”
Parents play a crucial role
Discussing heart health with teenagers can challenge parents, but leading by example is crucial for those who want their children to adopt healthier habits, according to Lee and Simms-Cendan.
“Teens are often resistant to receiving advice from adults regarding their habits related to eating or sleeping,” Lee said. “Consequently, one of the best actions parents can take is to model healthy lifestyles and choices.”
“You cannot advocate for a teen to make healthful choices if you are not embodying those principles yourself,” Simms-Cendan asserted. “If you have dietary concerns regarding your child, enforcing restrictions while keeping unhealthy options in the house will be ineffective.
“If you are worried about their weight, blood pressure, or diabetes, you need to lead by example,” she added. “It’s essential to eliminate unhealthy food from the home.”
Simms-Cendan also recommended parents involve their teens when grocery shopping so they can choose healthier food options they enjoy. Walking together is another effective strategy for promoting healthy behaviors. “Encourage them to take walks, being aware that they might prefer listening to music. Let them wear their headphones if need be,” she suggested. If they resist walking, “ask them what activities they would prefer to engage in for better wellness.”
HEALTH CARE DISCLAIMER: This site and its services do not constitute the practice of medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your health care provider for personal medical needs and concerns. If you suspect you have a medical issue, seek guidance from a qualified health care professional immediately. For emergencies in the United States, call 911.
*Ceirra Zeager is an advocate for heart health awareness among teenage girls and young women. (American Heart Association)
