The silent killer: The truth about heart disease in women

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States, accounting for one-third of all deaths each year (more than all forms of cancer combined).

Yet, for many years, research into heart disease has focused on men, leading to misunderstandings and misinformation about the disease’s impact on women­—and to deaths that could have been prevented.

“Women often experience different symptoms of heart disease than men, and as a result, may not receive timely diagnosis and treatment, simply because their symptoms aren’t common knowledge,” says IU Health Cardiology nurse practitioner Jackie Helms.

For example, two-thirds of women who die after myocardial infarction (e.g., a heart attack) experienced no chest pains.

Heart disease risk factors specific to women

Many risk factors for heart disease affect both men and women, such as high blood pressure or cholesterol, stress and family history.

“There are also risk factors specific to women,” says Helms. These include early onset menstruation and/or menopause, polycystic ovarian syndrome, gestational diabetes and preterm delivery. Black women are also more likely to develop heart disease, as are women who have gone through menopause.

“While experiencing one or more of these risk factors doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll develop heart disease, they are important risk factors to be aware of and discuss with your doctor,” says Helms.

Symptoms women should watch for

Generally, women develop symptoms of heart disease up to a decade later than men, on average.

“Just like there are risk factors that are unique to women, heart disease can present with different symptoms in women, too, especially when it comes to heart failure or heart attacks” says Helms.

While the elephant-on-your-chest metaphor for a heart attack is commonplace, women are more likely to experience symptoms in other parts of the body, such as in their neck, arms, jaw, left breast, shoulder or legs. Extreme fatigue, shortness of breath and numbness in the arms, hands or fingers can also be signs of a heart attack, especially in women.

“Women with heart failure have a higher chance of experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath, especially when exercising, and noticeable swelling, called edema,” says Helms.

Preventative steps women can take

There are ways that women can protect their heart health to prevent heart disease.

Focus on reducing heart disease risk

Taking care of your heart starts with the choices you make every day. Eating well is a big part of it—focus on lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats like the ones in fish and nuts.

Being active regularly matters too. Try to aim for around 150 minutes each week doing things you enjoy, whether it's walking, swimming, dancing or whatever gets your heart pumping. Managing your weight is very important in reducing your risk of developing heart issues.

Finding ways to manage stress, like meditation, yoga or hobbies you love, can also help your heart. If you smoke, quitting can also make a huge difference.

Check in with your doctor

Regular check-ups to evaluate your risk factors are your best defense against heart disease. Keep an eye on your blood pressure, cholesterol levels and watch out for signs of diabetes by getting checked regularly. Talking openly with your doctor about your heart health concerns and asking questions can be a game-changer in taking care of yourself.

Getting help early, understanding your medications and any procedures recommended is crucial. Stick to the treatment plan your doctor suggests and don't hesitate to talk about any concerns or side effects.

Lean on others

Having a support network is invaluable. Connecting with others in similar situations, whether through support groups, community events, or online forums, can offer guidance and encouragement.

Your heart is the engine of your vitality. Taking charge of its well-being means making smart choices, keeping up with check-ups and embracing a supportive lifestyle. Prioritizing your heart health isn't just about looking after yourself; it's an investment into a long and healthy life.

Take charge of your heart health by knowing your risk factors and talking with your doctor about ways you can prevent heart disease.