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Step 1
Watch for high blood pressure.
Many drug stores now own blood pressure checking machines. Though not extremely accurate these machines do give a quick ballpark read of your blood pressure. Often blood pressure is the first sign of cardiovascular disease. -
Step 2
Pay attention to symptoms of high blood pressure.
In addition to official and unofficial blood pressure checks, physical symptoms of high blood pressure can cue you in to cardiovascular disease. Dizziness, headaches, or a throbbing in the throat or neck can indicate high blood pressure. Cardiovascular disease may also be the culprit behind blurry vision if the eyes are affected. -
Step 3
Report any unusual or ongoing fatigue.
Ongoing fatigue is usually associated with one condition or another. It may not be cardiovascular disease, but it is something worth checking. If you also experience shortness of breath, or any pressure in your chest see a doctor immediately. -
Step 4
Be familiar with signs of cardiovascular disease in women.
Some, though not all, women with cardiovascular disease report very different symptoms from what has been normally considered symptoms of cardiovascular disease because of an over focus on men. Men often experience pain or tightness in the chest area during advance stages. Women, however, experience nausea and/or pain in their upper back, shoulders, and jaw.
* See tips below for more on cardiovascular disease.
