Every two minutes, a woman in the United States dies from heart disease – the leading cause of death for both men and women. Yet, heart disease in women often goes unnoticed or misdiagnosed, due to the unique ways it presents itself in women compared to men. Dr. Katarina Nelson, a cardiologist at Cone Health, is dedicated to educating women on heart health, emphasizing the importance of early detection and proactive prevention.
Dr. Nelson stresses that while heart disease is a significant concern for all adults, women face unique risks and warning signs. Unfortunately, many women downplay their symptoms and delay seeking help. They are more likely to prioritize the health of others, often neglecting their own until the problem becomes severe. By the time heart disease is diagnosed, it may have progressed to an advanced stage, making treatment more complicated.
“The key is prevention and early intervention. We want to catch heart disease before it leads to irreversible damage,” Dr. Nelson explains. “Many women don’t see a cardiologist until they’re having a heart attack. At that point, the damage to the heart can be significant, and it’s crucial to raise awareness about these risks.”
Common Risk Factors – What Women Need to Know
While men and women share several common risk factors for heart disease, such as smoking, high blood pressure, and diabetes, there are also unique factors that increase the risk for women.
Shared risk factors include:
- Older age
- Lack of physical activity
- Unhealthy cholesterol levels
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
Family history of coronary artery disease (CAD)
Smoking (women who smoke have a six-fold higher risk compared to nonsmokers)
Female-specific risk factors include:
Pregnancy-related complications such as pre-eclampsia, eclampsia, gestational diabetes, and stillbirth
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which leads to hormonal imbalances and increases the risk of cardiovascular disease
Women who have experienced any of these issues should be vigilant about their heart health and work closely with their healthcare provider to monitor and manage their risks.
Warning Signs of Heart Disease in Women
Many women aren’t aware that the symptoms of a heart attack can differ significantly from those typically portrayed in media. While chest pain is a common sign, it is not as frequent in women. Dr. Nelson outlines several warning signs that women should watch for:
- Shortness of breath
- Sudden pain in the back, arms, or jaw
- Nausea and vomiting
- Weakness and lightheadedness
- Unusual tiredness or fatigue
- Profuse sweating
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they are sudden or unexplained, call 911 immediately. It’s always better to err on the side of caution.
Heart disease is a real and preventable threat to women’s health. By understanding the unique risks and warning signs of heart disease, and taking proactive steps to protect their health, women can improve their chances of living longer, healthier lives. Regular checkups, a healthy lifestyle, and early intervention are key to maintaining heart health.
Read more:
- Understanding Heart Disease: Nature, Causes & Symptoms
- Understanding Cardiovascular Disease: Nature, Types & Treatment
- Top 5 Supplements To Regulate Your Natural Heart Rate
