Our Hearts Are on the Line

For decades, heart disease was considered a man’s concern—not something for women to worry about. This misunderstanding meant that women’s symptoms were sometimes overlooked, ignored, or undiagnosed. Today, we are gaining a better understanding that heart disease is a serious consideration for both genders.


Now that it’s American Heart Month, let’s take the opportunity to learn how heart disease affects women specifically - and unique factors to be mindful of in protecting women’s heart health.

 

Fundamental Differences

What makes heart disease different for women? To begin with, women’s bodies are equipped differently than men in ways that can affect their vulnerability to heart disease, including:

Because of these and other biological differences, women may experience symptoms that differ from those of men, and their heart disease may manifest in specific ways.

  

Are My Symptoms Real?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), both women and men experience the most common heart attack symptoms — chest pain, jaw or shoulder pain, shortness of breath, etc. However, women are more likely to experience less common or atypical symptoms that should also be taken seriously, such as:

Regardless of your gender — never ignore your symptoms. Call for emergency medical help immediately if you have symptoms of a heart attack or think you're having one.

Know Your Risk Factors

Some of the most well-recognized risk factors for heart disease — such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity — are common to both women and men. But there are many other conditions that may play an important role in women’s heart heath and contribute to an increased risk of heart disease, such as:

Knowledge Is Power

This month, let’s pay close attention to our hearts. The more we understand, the better choices we can make about our health. A greater understanding of the nuances of heart disease empowers us all to make informed choices that may save our lives.