HEART DISEASE IN WOMEN | SYMPTOMS, RISK FACTORS AND PREVENTION

Heart disease is one of the most important health conditions affecting women. Symptoms may sometimes differ from the typical symptoms seen in men. Recognizing symptoms early, controlling cardiovascular risk factors and obtaining appropriate medical evaluation can help reduce the risk of serious heart disease.

SYMPTOMS OF HEART DISEASE IN WOMEN

Symptoms may include:

• Chest pain, pressure or discomfort.
• Shortness of breath.
• Unusual or persistent fatigue.
• Heart palpitations.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness.
• Pain or discomfort in the back, neck, jaw or shoulders.
• Nausea or cold sweating in some cases.
• Reduced exercise tolerance.

HEART ATTACK SYMPTOMS IN WOMEN

Heart attack symptoms in women do not always present as severe chest pain. Some women may experience shortness of breath, unusual fatigue, nausea, back or jaw pain, or pressure or discomfort in the chest.

Sudden or unusual symptoms should not be ignored, especially when they are severe or associated with shortness of breath, sweating or dizziness.

RISK FACTORS FOR HEART DISEASE IN WOMEN

Important risk factors include:

• High blood pressure.
• Diabetes.
• High cholesterol.
• Smoking.
• Obesity and physical inactivity.
• Family history of heart disease.
• Increasing age.
• Certain pregnancy-related complications.
• Certain conditions that become more important around and after menopause.

PREGNANCY AND HEART DISEASE

Pregnancy increases the workload on the heart and cardiovascular system. Women with known heart disease, high blood pressure or certain heart rhythm disorders may require specialized follow-up during pregnancy.

Pregnancy complications such as high blood pressure during pregnancy and preeclampsia may also be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease later in life.

HEART DISEASE AFTER MENOPAUSE

After menopause, hormonal changes and increasing age can make certain cardiovascular risk factors more important.

Controlling blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes and body weight, together with regular physical activity and stopping smoking, becomes particularly important for heart disease prevention.

HOW IS HEART DISEASE EVALUATED IN WOMEN?

Evaluation depends on symptoms, medical history and cardiovascular risk factors. Depending on the clinical situation, investigations may include:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG).
• Echocardiography (Echo).
• Exercise stress testing when appropriate.
• Coronary CT angiography when indicated.
• Coronary angiography and cardiac catheterization when necessary.
• Blood tests, including cholesterol and blood sugar assessment.

PREVENTION OF HEART DISEASE IN WOMEN

Women can reduce their cardiovascular risk by:

• Maintaining healthy blood pressure.
• Controlling diabetes and cholesterol.
• Maintaining a healthy body weight.
• Exercising regularly.
• Stopping smoking.
• Following a heart-healthy diet.
• Getting adequate sleep.
• Having regular medical check-ups when risk factors are present.

WHEN DOES A WOMAN NEED URGENT MEDICAL EVALUATION?

Immediate medical attention is important when there is severe or persistent chest pain or pressure, significant shortness of breath, fainting, cold sweating or sudden unusual symptoms, particularly when symptoms are severe or worsening.

SPECIALIZED CARDIAC EVALUATION

Heart disease in women may present with typical or less typical symptoms. Early evaluation is important when symptoms or cardiovascular risk factors are present.

Appropriate cardiac assessment can help identify coronary artery disease, heart rhythm disorders, heart valve disease and other cardiovascular conditions, allowing an individualized prevention and treatment plan to be developed.