Heart Disease In Women What’s To Know

Heart diseases are often considered a man’s health concern, but it affects women almost equally. Women may experience subtle symptoms which result in visiting a doctor only when having a medical emergency. Knowing the risk factors and symptoms that are exclusive for women can help prevent the risk and get medical help at the right time. Let’s discuss heart disease in women.
 

Heart Diseases In Women

Heart diseases are disorders that affect the heart and blood vessels. They include peripheral artery disease, coronary artery disease, arrhythmia, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, etc. In both women and men, the common heart disease is coronary artery disease, in which blockage occurs in the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart. It occurs gradually and is the primary reason people have heart attacks.

In women, heart diseases - coronary microvascular disease (MVD) and broken heart syndrome are more common than in men. Coronary microvascular disease is also called small vessel heart disease, in which blockages happen in the tiny blood vessel that supplies blood to the heart. Broken heart syndrome is a temporary heart muscle failure brought on by stressful situations and extreme emotions. 
 

Risk Factors For Heart Disease In Women

High Blood Pressure

Being obese, having high LDL cholesterol, and smoking are the primary risk factors for heart disease. Let’s discuss some risk factors that a woman must know to prevent heart disease.

High Blood Sugar (Diabetes)

High blood sugar can increase the risk of heart disease in women more than in men. Women with a previous heart attack are at double the risk of another heart attack and heart failure if they have elevated blood sugar levels. 

Smoking

Women who smoke have an increased risk of heart disease than men who smoke. Women older than thirty-five who smoke and take birth control medications are at much higher risk for heart disease or stroke. People exposed to secondhand smoke are at about 25 – 30 percent higher risk of developing heart disorders. 

Menopause

Menopause is a natural phase of a woman's life. At this stage, most women experience a change in their cholesterol levels – total cholesterol and LDL (bad cholesterol) rise, and HDL (good cholesterol) falls. It is one of the major risk factors for heart disease in women. 

Pregnancy

Women with high blood pressure, preeclampsia, or gestational diabetes during pregnancy are at higher risk of developing heart disorders later in life. 

Family History

Suppose a family member has a history of heart disease. In that case, especially if any of your parents developed the disease early, you are more at risk of developing coronary artery disease. 

Depression

Depression is usually more common in women than men, and it can impact women heart health more than men’s heart health.  Polycystic ovary disease, autoimmune disorders (rheumatoid arthritis or lupus), old age, poor diet, lack of physical inactivity, and poor dental health are other risk factors for developing heart diseases. 
 

Know The Female Heart Attack Symptoms

Ischaemic heart disease, also known as coronary heart disease or coronary artery disease, is the top cause of death globally and is the most common heart disease. This disease caused by narrowed blood vessels can block the blood supply to the heart and can ultimately lead to a heart attack.  Crushing chest pain is the typical symptom of a heart attack, but many women do not experience this symptom. They may have subtle symptoms. Hence knowing the symptoms is very important. 

During a heart attack, women may experience

• Shortness of breath

• Unusual tiredness

• Cold sweat

• Dizziness

• Weakness

• Weak or heavy arms

• Nausea

• Discomfort or pain in the chest, stomach, back, neck, or jaw
   

The early warning signs that may occur one month before a heart attack are

• Unusual tiredness

• Sleeping troubles

• Indigestion

• Anxiety

• Weak or heavy arms

• Pounding heart

• Shortness of breath

• Tightness in the chest
   

Beat The Heart Disease And Feel The Healthy Beat

Control the health conditions such as blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol, which may lead to heart diseases. Manage stress in healthy ways and take food low in salt and diet. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate to intense physical activity. If you experience any symptoms frequently, even mild ones, be sure to discuss them with your healthcare professional. When found early, many health complications can be prevented.

Disclaimer: This blog is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Heart disease can present differently in women, and symptoms, risk factors, and treatment may vary from person to person. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised guidance if you have concerns about your heart health or experience symptoms.