Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women worldwide.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 60 million women in the United States live with some form of heart disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the U.S. and can affect women of all ages.
Heart disease encompasses a range of conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, including coronary artery disease, heart attack, heart failure, and arrhythmias.
Despite its prevalence, many women don’t realize that heart disease is a major concern.
Cardiac surgeons at WashU Medicine
Heart surgeons at WashU Medicine see patients at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, one of the top hospitals in the nation for heart and vascular care, as well as convenient locations across the region.
What is heart disease? What should women know?
Heart disease refers to various types of heart conditions, including coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, and heart failure.
Some signs and symptoms of heart disease are different for men and women. This leads to a higher percentage of men with heart disease being diagnosed, while some women may not be aware that they have heart disease.
Understanding the specific risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options for heart disease in women is crucial for effective prevention and management.
Types of heart disease in women
Women can experience the same types of heart and cardiovascular disease as men. Some of the most common types of heart disease in women include:
- Coronary artery disease: The arteries supplying blood to the heart become narrowed by a buildup of plaque, called atherosclerosis. Women are at an increased risk of coronary artery disease after menopause.
- Arrhythmia: An abnormal heartbeat caused by an issue with the heart’s electrical impulses. A common form of arrhythmia is atrial fibrillation.
- Heart failure: When your heart is too weak to pump enough blood to support the body.
Causes of heart disease in women
Many of the causes of heart disease are the same for men and women, including atherosclerosis, hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
Lifestyle factors that can cause heart disease in men and women include smoking, a high-fat diet, physical inactivity, and obesity.
There are also hormonal factors that can contribute to heart disease in women. These include:
- Post-menopause: The decline in estrogen levels after menopause increases the risk of heart disease.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Associated with metabolic syndrome and increased cardiovascular risk.
Other factors that may contribute to heart disease in women include stress, depression, and family history of heart disease.
Symptoms of heart disease in women
Some women may experience no symptoms, even when they have heart disease. This is one of the reasons that women may be underdiagnosed with heart disease.
Chest pain is the most common symptom of heart attacks in both men and women.
Women are more likely to experience other symptoms that are not always linked to heart disease. These include:
- Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing, particularly during physical activity.
- Fatigue: Unexplained or unusual tiredness, even at rest.
- Upper body pain: Pain or discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
- Nausea: Feeling sick to the stomach, sometimes mistaken for indigestion.
- Sweating: Unusual or excessive sweating, sometimes described as cold sweats.
- Lightheadedness: Dizziness or feeling faint.
Women are more likely to experience atypical symptoms such as vague chest discomfort, indigestion, or fatigue, making it crucial to recognize and address these signs promptly.
Reducing your risk of heart disease
Awareness is the first step. Knowing that women are at risk for heart disease can help you understand risk factors, signs and symptoms.
Other ways women can reduce their risk of heart disease include:
- Control your blood pressure
- Talk to your doctor about all health concerns
- Quit smoking
- Make or maintain healthy eating habits
- Limit alcohol intake
- Exercise regularly
Heart & Vascular Center
Achieving excellence through patient care, research and education is the mission of the Washington University and Barnes-Jewish Heart and Vascular Center.
Our team of physicians and nurses are committed to improving heart and vascular health through their expertise, collaboration and compassion.
Heart disease in women is a significant health concern that requires awareness, early detection, and comprehensive management to reduce the risk of severe complications and improve overall well-being. Understanding the specific causes, symptoms, diagnostic methods, and treatment options for heart disease in women is crucial for effective care. If you or a loved one are at risk for or have been diagnosed with heart disease, consulting with a specialized medical team will help develop a personalized care plan tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.
