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Heart Health for Women

Empowering women with resources to take charge of their heart health and combat the leading cause of death.

Photo: Bermix Studio

Introduction

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women, surpassing all forms of cancer combined. Our cardiology practice recognizes the need for a tailored approach to women's heart health because women have unique physiology, risk factors, and symptoms. This blog aims to share these differences and provide resources to empower women to take charge of their heart health.


Physiological Differences in the Female Heart

The Journal of Clinical Cardiology published evidence in 2014 that women's heart vessels are smaller in diameter than men's, even when adjusting for body size. These smaller heart vessels place women at greater risk for decreased blood flow to the heart from vessel blockages and vessel spasms.


More recent studies have revealed multiple differences between female and male hearts. For example, the female heart:

  • Is approximately one-fourth smaller.
  • Has a higher resting heart rate.
  • Has lower blood pressure.
  • Squeezes harder.
  • Takes longer to complete a cardiac cycle.
  • Is more susceptible to drug-induced abnormal heart rhythms because of estrogen.

The Role of Estrogen

As mentioned above, higher levels of estrogen place women at higher risk of drug-induced abnormal heart rhythms. At the same time, men appear to be protected from this risk by progesterone and testosterone.


Estrogen offers some protection against heart disease by influencing cholesterol levels and maintaining blood vessel flexibility. However, as women approach menopause, decreasing estrogen levels contribute to an increased risk of heart disease. The North American Menopause Society provides resources on managing heart health during this transitional phase.

Unique Risk Factors and Symptoms

Some conditions are linked to higher heart disease risks. Autoimmune diseases are one such condition, and they disproportionately affect women. Other risk factors unique to women are a history of:

  • Starting your first period before age 11
  • Starting menopause before age 40
  • Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
  • Pre-eclampsia
  • Gestational diabetes
  • Pregnancy-induced hypertension
  • Pre-term delivery
  • Delivery of a very low-weight baby or very high-weight baby


Symptoms of heart disease in women often extend beyond the classic chest pain. They can include fatigue, shortness of breath, indigestion, and back, neck, throat, or jaw pain. These symptoms can often be overlooked, so it is important to be persistent when presenting to an emergency department with such symptoms.

Lifestyle Modification for Prevention

Prevention plays a crucial role in combating heart disease. This includes maintaining a healthy weight, getting regular physical activity, and smoking cessation. Particular attention should be given to managing stress and mental health, factors that significantly impact women's heart health.

Diet and Exercise: A Heart-Healthy Plan

The American College of Cardiology recognizes that excess abdominal fat puts us at higher heart disease risk. To reduce this risk, they recommend maintaining a waist circumference of 35 inches or less for women (40 inches or less for men).


Diet and exercise are vital to reducing heart disease risk. The best diet is the one that works for you. Try following a diet that is enjoyable for you, balanced, low in sugar, and limits alcohol consumption. Aim for 150 minutes per week of moderately intense activity for heart health.

Stress Management and Mental Health

Women often juggle multiple roles, leading to increased stress levels that can adversely affect heart health. Techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, and regular physical activity are recommended for stress reduction. The American Psychological Association (APA) provides resources for coping with stress in healthy ways.

Recognizing the Signs: When to Seek Help

Awareness of heart disease symptoms unique to women is crucial. The National Institutes of Health urges women to seek medical attention for unexplained symptoms, emphasizing that early detection can save lives.

Taking the First Step: A Conversation

Women's heart health demands a nuanced understanding of the unique risks and symptoms. By adopting preventative measures, managing stress, and seeking timely medical advice, women can significantly reduce their risk of heart disease. Let this knowledge empower you and the women you love to take proactive steps toward heart health.


We encourage you to discuss heart health with your healthcare provider, especially if you are approaching menopause or have conditions like PCOS. You can contact our practice for more information or to schedule a heart health screening. Together, we can work towards a healthier heart and a brighter future. 

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