Village Medical Explains: The Wide-Ranging Impact of Stress on Health

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States according to the CDC, yet it often goes underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed. That is why it is key for women and their loved ones to know the specific risks to women’s heart health and ways to protect against them.

Unique risk factors for women

While both men and women can experience the common risk factors for heart disease, women face additional risks that are often overlooked. Below we look at five of these unique factors.

1. Symptoms that present differently

Women don’t always experience the "classic" heart attack symptoms such as chest pain. Instead, they might feel nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath, or pain in the back, jaw, or stomach. For example, research shows that women often report feeling unusually tired in the weeks or months leading up to a heart issue. As these are not the usual signs of heart disease, it can cause a delay in diagnosis and treatment.

2. Pregnancy-related risks

Complications during pregnancy, such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes and high blood pressure, are not just short-term concerns. These conditions can increase a woman's risk of developing heart disease later in life.

3. Hormonal Changes

After menopause, women experience a drop in estrogen levels, which is believed to have a protective effect on the heart. This hormonal change can lead to an increase in LDL (bad cholesterol) and a decrease in HDL (good cholesterol), raising the risk of heart disease.

4. Autoimmune diseases

Conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, which are more common in women, can cause chronic inflammation and increase a person’s risk of developing heart issues.

5. Mental health factors

Stress, depression and anxiety have been linked to higher risks of heart disease, especially in women. These conditions can also lead to behaviors like overeating, smoking and lack of exercise, which can further jeopardize heart health.

What women should know about their risk

Understanding a women’s unique risk factors for heart disease is just the first step. Women also need to be aware of how their symptoms happen and take proactive measures to monitor their heart health.

• Warning signs of a heart attack: For women, the symptoms of a heart attack often feel flu-like or are nonspecific, such as dizziness, fainting or unusual fatigue.
  
  
• Know your numbers: Keeping track of your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood sugar, and body weight are key to managing your heart disease risk.
  
  
• Family history matters: A history of heart disease in close relatives can increase your risk. Make sure to discuss your family history with your primary care doctor or advanced practice provider* (APP).
  
  
• Check with your doctor or APP regularly: Even if you're feeling fine, routine checkups and screenings can help catch early signs of heart issues before they develop into something more serious. They are also a good time to have your numbers checked.

Early diagnosis and treatment of heart disease can prevent complications and help save your life. So, it is important to schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor or APP if you’re experiencing symptoms or know you have risk factors for heart disease.

Heart disease isn't unavoidable. By recognizing the specific risks women encounter and taking steps to address them, you can take control of your heart health. Armed with knowledge of what your risks are and seeking professional medical guidance, you can give your heart the care it deserves.

*An advanced practice provider includes a nurse practitioner or physician assistant.