Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men, women and people of most racial and ethnic groups in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Taking care of your heart by improving your diet, exercising regularly and checking in with your doctor can help decrease your risk of heart disease.

But heart health isn’t one-size-fits-all. Women may experience different warning signs of heart disease than men, while those in rural communities can face unique challenges in accessing care. For adults over 65, managing risk factors like high blood pressure becomes even more important.

Experts at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) have put together some heart health resources to keep handy no matter your age, gender, location or fitness level.

Heart health resources in rural Nebraska

Nebraska’s rural populations often have a harder time accessing medical facilities near their homes. Dr. Thad Salido, senior medical director at BCBSNE, said the company has nurse-supported care programs that can help members access local resources or alternative health care options like telehealth.

“We recognize that access to care can be challenging in western Nebraska due to the distance between communities,” Dr. Salido said. “Our Population Health and Care Management teams are constantly finding ways to improve access for those members.”

If you’re living in a rural community or are struggling to find care, learn more about how BCBSNE’s care management resources and solutions could benefit you and your family.

Taking care of your heart as a woman

The CDC says over 60 million women in the U.S. are living with some form of heart disease, and only 56% of women know heart disease is their number one killer.

Dr. Salido said heart disease is still underdiagnosed because symptoms can often present differently in women than they do in men.

“Something like heart palpitations, nausea or back pain can be signs of heart attack in women,” Dr. Salido said. “That’s why some cases are underdiagnosed and not readily treated as if patients are having a heart attack. This causes a high rate of death in women.”

Women may experience symptoms that can be harder to identify than the typical chest pain associated with heart attacks. Women should be on the lookout for the following symptoms:

  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue
  • Pain in the neck, jaw, shoulder, upper back or abdomen
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Sweating
  • Sleep disturbances

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they’re new, severe or persistent, seek medical attention.

Cardiovascular health for seniors

As a champion for the health and well-being of its members and the communities it serves, BCBSNE encourages annual wellness and preventive care visits for all members, including seniors.

The National Institute of Aging says regular doctor visits can help reduce risk factors for high blood pressure, cholesterol levels or other conditions that impact cardiovascular health.

“Oversight from a physician is very important for our members over the age of 65,” Dr. Salido said. “Making sure they follow up with their physicians to control blood pressure and identify social determinants of health, among other things, can help prevent heart disease and improve their cardiovascular health.”

BCBSNE’s Medicare plans make it easier for members to stay on top of their well-being.

To learn more about finding a Medicare plan that fits your health and well-being needs, contact one of our local experts at GetStarted@NebraskaBlue.com.

Heart resources for Nebraskans

Nebraskans have access to a variety of heart health resources that can help improve or prevent heart disease. Whether you need tips for a heart-healthy lifestyle or assistance navigating Medicare coverage, these resources can help you stay on top of your cardiovascular health:

  • The American Heart Association – Nebraska is committed to driving equitable health impact in Nebraska. They offer events, educational materials and support networks tailored to the local community.
  • The Nebraska Health Network has materials available in English and Spanish to help you manage heart conditions with guidance on symptoms, complications and preventive care strategies.
  • BCBSNE’s health resources page offers a variety of tools to give you the knowledge to create and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

“Everything plays a role in your heart health,” Dr. Salido said. “For example, obesity, diabetes, hypertension and kidney disease ultimately funnel into a person’s risk for heart disease.”

BCBSNE supports heart health for all Nebraskans through education, preventive care and essential resources. By staying informed and proactive, you can take control of your heart health and live a longer, healthier life.

To learn how BCBSNE’s coverage options can support your wellness journey, visit NebraskaBlue.com.