Women and Heart Disease: What You Need to Know About Protecting Your Heart Health
Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women in the United States, claiming more lives each year than all forms of cancer combined. This article will help you understand what heart disease is, when women are most likely to develop it, and what signs and symptoms to watch for. We’ll also cover the most common risk factors, how heart disease is diagnosed and treated, and—most importantly—what you can do to prevent it.
If you’re concerned about your heart health or simply want to take proactive steps toward a healthier future, our team at Maiden Lane Medical in New York City is here to help. We offer personalized, compassionate care to support every stage of your health journey. Schedule an appointment today!
Women and Heart Disease
Cardiovascular disease affects millions of women in the U.S., but it’s often underrecognized. Heart disease is sometimes mistakenly viewed as a “man’s problem,” yet it affects women in ways that are often more subtle—and potentially more dangerous due to delayed diagnosis.
Heart disease includes a range of conditions that impact the heart and blood vessels, with coronary heart disease (also called coronary artery disease) being the most common. Other forms include coronary microvascular disease, hypertensive heart disease, and renovascular disease.
While cardiovascular health is a concern for everyone, women have unique risk factors, symptoms, and outcomes. Understanding these differences is crucial to early intervention and effective treatment.
What is Heart Disease?
Heart disease, also known as cardiovascular disease, refers to several types of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. The most common forms include:
- Coronary heart disease/coronary artery disease
- Coronary microvascular disease
- Hypertensive heart disease
- Heart attacks (myocardial infarctions)
- Renovascular disease
These conditions can lead to reduced blood flow, damage to the heart muscle, and even life-threatening events like a heart attack. High blood pressure (Hypertension), Diabetes, and elevated cholesterol are major contributors to heart disease.
At What Age Do Women Commonly Get Heart Disease?
Women are more likely to develop heart disease later in life than men, often around the time of menopause, between the ages of 45 and 65. Hormonal changes during this stage, such as a drop in estrogen, may contribute to a major risk factor: increased bad cholesterol and higher blood pressure. However, younger women are not immune, particularly those with a family history or other health conditions like gestational diabetes.
Risk Factors for Heart Disease in Women
Several factors increase a woman’s risk of developing heart disease, including:
- Hypertension (High blood pressure) – Makes the heart work harder and damages arteries.
- Diabetes – Women with diabetes are more likely to develop heart disease than men with the condition.
- Smoking greatly increases the risk of both heart attack and stroke.
- High cholesterol – Particularly post-menopause, when LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides tend to rise.
- Family history of heart disease
- Obesity or a sedentary lifestyle
- Chronic stress
- Previous pregnancy complications, like gestational diabetes or preeclampsia
Signs and Symptoms of Heart Disease in Women
Women often experience different and more subtle symptoms than men. While chest pain is a classic sign of a heart attack, women may experience:
- Pain in the jaw, neck, upper back, or abdomen
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Cold sweats
- Unusual fatigue
- Rapid heartbeat
- Pain in one or both arms
Because these symptoms are less dramatic than those seen in men, women are more likely to dismiss them or attribute them to less serious conditions, delaying treatment.
How is Heart Disease Diagnosed?
Diagnosing heart disease begins with a thorough review of your personal and family medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle factors. Your doctor at Maiden Lane Medical require a variety of tests, including:
- Blood tests to check cholesterol and glucose levels
- Electrocardiogram (EKG) to measure electrical activity in the heart
- Echocardiogram to view heart function
- Stress testing to observe how your heart works under pressure
- Additional testing, such as CT scans or cardiac catheterization, if needed
Lab testing and EKG can be done at our Maiden Lane Medical offices, and referral to a cardiologist can be made for further evaluation, if needed. Early diagnosis is essential for improving outcomes and reducing complications.
Treatment for Heart Disease
The treatment plan for heart disease depends on the specific diagnosis and severity. Common treatments include:
- Lifestyle changes – Diet, exercise, stress management, and quitting smoking
- Medications, such as:
- Aspirin
- Beta-blockers
- ACE inhibitors
- Cholesterol-lowering drugs
- Interventional procedures, including:
- Cardiac stents
- Percutaneous coronary intervention
- Coronary artery bypass surgery
Your care team at Maiden Lane Medical will tailor a plan based on your condition and needs, supporting both symptom relief and long-term cardiovascular health.
Preventing Heart Disease in Women
Many risk factors for heart disease are preventable. Taking charge of your heart health includes:
- Monitoring your blood pressure regularly
- Managing Diabetes and Cholesterol
- Avoiding smoking—ask about referral options such as acupuncture, hypnosis, or psychotherapy for support
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Exercising regularly
- Limiting alcohol intake
- Reducing stress through mindfulness, therapy, or physical activity
Routine health screenings, including annual checkups and appropriate testing, are a critical part of prevention.
Protecting Your Heart: A Lifelong Investment in Your Health
Heart disease is not just a man’s issue—it’s a leading threat to women’s health that often goes undetected until a serious event like a heart attack occurs. By knowing the signs, understanding your risk factors, and taking preventive measures, you can significantly reduce your chances of developing heart disease.
If you have any concerns about your heart health, schedule an appointment with a Maiden Lane Medical office today in NYC. Our skilled providers offer comprehensive, compassionate care for cardiovascular conditions and general women’s health, helping you take control of your heart and your future.
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