Are you aware of the unique symptoms of heart disease in women? Karetrip explores this important topic in our latest blog.

Heart disease is often seen as a problem for men, but did you know that it affects women differently?

Understanding these differences can help women recognize the signs of heart disease early and take action to protect their heart health.

Let's delve into the world of women and heart disease together to empower you with knowledge and awareness.

Women and Heart Disease

Heart disease is the leading cause of deaths in women. For centuries we believed heart attack is a man’s disease. But heart attacks cause deaths of as many women as men.

In fact, women have a higher risk of stroke and lower survival rate on their first attacks.

Heart disease risk increases with age but there are also other factors causing heart attacks including family history of heart disease, diabetes,combination of smoking and birth control pills, lifestyle etc. So younger people can also get heart diseases.

The good news is that with proper changes in our diet and lifestyle we can reduce the risk of heart diseases ( other than age and family history) to a great extent.

Recognising Unique Symptoms

It is important to detect the warning sign of heart attack because early treatments are vital.

As we know, the heart is responsible for transporting blood and oxygen needed for the entire body.

The longer there is a blockage in the heart the greater damage occurs. It can possibly lead to long term disability and deaths.

1. Non-Traditional Symptoms

Do men and women experience the same symptoms ?

The short answer is NO. Yes, the most common symptom is chest pain for men and women. But 20% of women don't experience chest pain at all.

They have less recognisable symptoms which may possibly be unattended as common fatigue symptoms. These symptoms in women may not be a combination of chest pain, radiating pain towards the hands and shortness of breath.

The below symptoms can be considered early symptoms of heart attack in women. These can be seen weeks before heart attacks.

The symptoms include:

• Ingestion or nausea: Heartburn or discomfort in stomach along with gastric issues visible. They are usually mistaken for less serious conditions. Body pain: Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.

• Unusual fatigue and sleep disturbances: Fatigueness, constant tiredness and sleep disturbances can be felt. Troubled breathing at night can also be experienced

• Numbness in hands and frequent headaches

These symptoms can occur in isolation or along with chest pain.

2. Subtle Signs During Physical Activity

Women with a history of heart disease are prone to heart attacks during physical activity or exercises.

Some symptoms can only be felt when doing physical activities.

These may include

• Shortness of breath
• Cold sweat/excessive sweating
• Increased heart rates
• Dizziness
• Palpitations etc.

If you feel any of these symptoms, stop over exerting yourself. If symptoms persist get medical help immediately,

Psychological Well Being and Heart Disease

Women with heart attacks are more prone to depression and elevated stress levels than men.

Long term mental health such as depression and post traumatic stress disorder can cause changes in the body including:

• Increased heart rate and blood pressure
• Excessive fatigue
• General feeling of unwellness

How is Cardiovascular System in Women Different from Men

Researchers found many gender specific differences in body increase risk of heart disease in women.

This may be split down as differences in:

• Anatomy: Blood vessels, heart chambers and ventricles are smaller and thinner in women.

• Blood count: Fewer red blood cells restricts the amount of oxygen carried at any given time.

Cardiovascular adaptations: Changes in altitude or body position (like quickly standing up after lying down) are more likely to affect the female body. This leads to sudden drop in blood pressure.

• Hormones

Risk Factor Specific to Women

Of course all the risks are not gender specific. However, recent research is showing a significant correlation between certain factors and diagnosis unique for women.

• High Cholesterol
• Diabetes mellitus
• Hypertension ( High blood pressure)
• Menopause
• Obesity
• Lack of exercise
• Smoking
• Autoimmune disease
• Preeclampsia and pregnancy related hypertension
• Gestational diabetes
• Postpartum or pregnancy related cardiomyopathy
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Oral Contraceptives pills (using along with obesity or smoking can increase the negative effects)

All the above increases the risk of heart diseases in women.

mportance of Awareness and Education Raising Awareness is very important in detection and early treatment of heart disease in a women

In November 2014, the Women’s Heart Alliance (WHA) launched a national campaign to improve awareness, action, and advocacy for women’s Cardiovascular diseases.

The awareness programme focuses on:

• Informing women about factors, warnings and symptoms
• Encouraging physicians to actively talk about women heart health
• Promoting heart-healthy lifestyles
• Encouraging regular checkups and doctor visits

What Should You Do:

• Keep track of medical history and test results including heart rates, menstrual flow, sleep pattern etc.

• Keep reports of your close family having health disease. You are at risk of heart disease if your family has a history of the same.

• Take care of your health by managing your weight,diet and exercise properly.

• Be assertive of your symptoms. Never think twice for getting a second opinion if your issues are not properly addressed.

• Make sure your family knows signs and symptoms of heart attacks and your personal reports well.

• If you feel there is an emergency health issue, don’t wait, just ask for help immediately.

If you have a risk of heart disease or a family history of disease you are not alone. Recognising the unique symptoms of heart disease in women is essential for effective prevention and treatment.

Awareness, education, and timely medical intervention can significantly reduce the impact of this disease on women globally.

By understanding these unique aspects, women can better advocate for their health and seek appropriate care when needed.

The information provided represents the views and opinions of Karetrip. It is crucial to conduct your own independent research before making any decisions regarding your healthcare journey. - Disclaimer