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Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, where the symptoms of heart disease in women can be subtle and different from men. Although 3-4 times more common than in men, women make up a greater number of patients with CVD and on average develop CVD 10 years later than women, but mortality rates are higher in women (51% vs 42%).
CVD differs from men in some ways such as presentation, risk factors and treatment strategies and response to it. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Srichandran L, Senior Consultant – Interventional Cardiologist, Department of Cardiology at MGM Healthcare, Chennai, explained, “While chest pain is common, women may experience discomfort in the neck, jaw or upper back, shortness of breath, arm pain, nausea, sweating, dizziness, fatigue or heartburn. Due to small artery blockages, they may have non-cardiac pain symptoms and may experience symptoms more often at rest or when under stress.”
Offering his expertise on the subject, Dr. Rajesh Bhat U, Associate Professor and Senior Interventional Cardiologist at KMC Hospital, Mangalore, said, “Both men and women are at risk for coronary artery disease due to several traditional factors, including obesity, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. However, it is likely that other factors contribute more to the development of heart disease in women. Certain female-specific risk factors play a role in the development of CVD. Reproductive, hormonal and pregnancy-related factors promote endothelial dysfunction (damage to the inner lining of blood vessels).”
According to him, these include –
- genetic predisposition.
- Early/late menstruation
- Migraines in teens
- Reproductive disorders during adolescence
- PCOD
- Early menopause
- Presence of other diseases such as arthritis, thyroid disorders, which are more common in women.
Dr. Srichandran L said it is important to seek medical help immediately if you experience heart attack symptoms, “Risk factors for women include diabetes, emotional stress, smoking, inactivity, menopause, pregnancy complications, family history, and inflammatory diseases. Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, healthy eating, regular exercise, stress management, limiting alcohol, and following treatment plans are important. Additionally, home remedies such as herbal teas like green tea or hibiscus tea, relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises or progressive muscle relaxation, and dietary supplements like omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil may support heart health. Self-care practices such as meditation, yoga, regular physical activity, and ensuring adequate sleep can also reduce stress and improve overall health, which contributes to heart disease prevention.”
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