Women and Heart Disease: Understanding the Risks and Different Types
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women, affecting millions in the United States. However, many women are unaware of the severity of the issue, with only 56% recognizing heart disease as the leading killer. Heart disease is a complex condition and affects women differently than it does men.
Story Highlights
- Women are more likely to have non-classic symptoms of heart attack
- Heart disease affects women differently than it affects men in some ways
- 44% of US women are at risk of heart disease due to various factors
Heart Disease and its Types
Heart disease is a broad term covering various cardiovascular conditions. The most common type is coronary artery disease, characterized by the narrowing or blockage of heart arteries due to cholesterol deposits. This condition, along with vascular disease, is responsible for heart attacks and strokes. Risk factors include hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, and smoking. Heart rhythm abnormalities such as atrial fibrillation can also lead to complications like stroke and heart failure. Heart failure, on the other hand, occurs when the heart is weakened or damaged. Additionally, structural abnormalities such as valve defects can contribute to heart disease.
Differences in Heart Disease between Women and Men
Women experience certain distinctions in heart disease. For instance, their smaller heart and blood vessels can result in the higher likelihood of developing heart disease in smaller arteries. Estrogen level changes and certain conditions like anemia and endometriosis contribute to increased risks in women. Moreover, women may experience non-classic symptoms, leading to higher rates of misdiagnosis and consequential lack of proper treatment.
Heart Disease during Pregnancy
Pregnancy may bring forth conditions that influence heart health, such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and enlarged heart leading to heart failure. Pre-existing heart conditions may also manifest or worsen during pregnancy, emphasizing the need for women to prioritize their cardiac health during and after delivery.
Recognizing Symptoms and Seeking Medical Attention
Prompt and accurate diagnosis is crucial for heart-related conditions. While chest pain, jaw, and left arm pain, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, and nausea are classic heart attack symptoms, women may experience vaguer and non-classic signs like fatigue, nausea, and upper abdomen discomfort. Palpitations, sudden irregular heartbeats, and worsening exercise tolerance are indicators of other heart problems. It is important for women to listen to their bodies and advocate for themselves if they experience any unusual symptoms – providing specific details to their healthcare provider can aid in faster and accurate diagnoses.
Improving Cardiac Health in Women
Managing existing medical conditions is key to reducing the risk of heart disease. Women should pay attention to their blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and diabetes management. Addressing risk factors such as obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, poor diet, inactivity, and maintaining mental well-being are essential. Overall, being proactive about heart health and regular consultations with healthcare professionals contributes to reducing the burden of heart disease in women.
Sources: CNN
