Women have unique heart health challenges that are sometimes overlooked. Because women's hearts and symptoms can be different, it's important to pay special attention. Learning about these differences and making small changes can help protect your heart.
Heart disease affects both women and men, but it often develops and appears differently in women. Knowing about these differences can help you take better care of your heart and prevent the risk of heart disease.
How Women's Hearts Are Different
Women's hearts are smaller, and their blood vessels are narrower than men's, which affects how heart disease develops. Men are more likely to have cholesterol buildup in the main arteries, while women are more likely to have it in the smaller blood vessels. Because of this, standard tests may not always find heart disease in women as easily as in men.
Swelling and irritation in blood vessels are also more common in women's heart disease. Because women's hearts work differently, they need different ways to diagnose and treat problems. At Astera Cancer Care, we know women need care that is tailored to them.
What Heart Problems Feel Like for Women
Heart attack symptoms can be different compared to men. Chest pressure is common for everyone, but women may also feel nauseous, sweat, vomit, or have pain in the neck, jaw, throat, belly, or back.
Special Risk Factors for Women
Your pregnancy history can affect your heart health. If you had high blood pressure or diabetes while pregnant, your risk for heart disease is higher later on. Be sure to tell your doctor about any problems you had during pregnancy.
Having endometriosis also raises your risk for heart disease. Studies show that women under 40 with endometriosis are three times more likely to have heart problems than those without it. If this applies to you, it's even more important to look after your heart. At Astera Cancer Care, we encourage you to share your full medical history, including any pregnancy complications and a history of endometriosis, so we can provide the best care.
How to Protect Your Heart
The good news is that there are many easy ways to keep your heart healthy. Regular activity helps, even if it's just walking or swimming. You don't need hard workouts; just moving is enough. Eating well matters too. Try to eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. These foods help your heart stay strong. Keeping a healthy weight also eases the strain on your heart.
Managing stress is important as well. Taking the time to relax, sleep, and spending time with loved ones all support your heart. Be sure to visit your doctor regularly so they can check your blood pressure and cholesterol.
Heart health matters even more for cancer patients and survivors because some treatments can affect the heart and blood vessels. If you have questions about your heart or how treatment might affect it, our team is ready to help.