People pleasers want things to be nice. They focus on meeting the needs of others, try to avoid conflict and measure their self-worth based on their ability to make others happy.

"People pleasers often take care of others at their own expense,“ says Dr. Rackner. “They just don’t find time in their schedule for activities that contribute to heart health, such as regular exercise or good nutrition or stress management. In fact, the added stress of making others happy increases their risk of heart disease. Then they delay diagnosis of heart disease when they ignore chest tightness or fatigue or indigestion. They don’t want to trouble their doctors with what they see as minor problems. Plus they’re too busy taking care of others to make a doctor appointment."

Dr. Rackner points out, “The wonders of the body offer a lesson to people pleasers. The heart pumps nutrient-rich blood that nourishes the entire body. The very first arteries that leave the heart feed the heart itself. In fact, heart attacks occur when the heart does not get adequate blood flow, leading to heart muscle injury. Every organ in the body – all relying on a healthy heart – then suffers. So, too, people pleasers forget to nourish themselves before they nourish others. Their failure to do so ultimately impairs their ability to serve others, the Seattle surgeon says.

Dr. Rackner suggests some steps for people pleasers interested in investing in heart health.

Call your doctor today and ask, “Am I at risk for heart disease?” This may be the call that saves your life. A heart health check would include taking your blood pressure, measuring your cholesterol (a complete lipid panel), and telling your doctor your family health history.

Know the signs of heart attack in women, which may be nothing more than severe fatigue. Other signs and symptoms include chest tightness, nausea, arm or jaw pain, dizziness, shortness of breath or sweating

Commit to doing one thing every day this week that nourishes you and your heart. A 10-minute walk is a great place to start.

Pause before saying, “Yes.” If someone asks you to serve on a committee, think about it first. It’s okay to say, “No.”

Make a list of stress busters, and put it on the fridge.

People pleasers who act from their big hearts may be putting their own hearts at risk.

Vicki Rackner M.D. president of Medical Bridges, is a surgeon who left the operating room to help patients partner more effectively with their doctors. She's a speaker, author and consultant.

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