Heart Disease in Women

Heart disease in women is a leading cause of death, yet it remains underdiagnosed and often presents with different symptoms than in men. While chest pain is a common warning sign for both sexes, women may also experience atypical symptoms such as shortness of breath, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, and back or jaw pain, which can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Several unique risk factors increase heart disease risk in women. Hormonal changes, particularly after menopause, reduce protective estrogen levels, leading to higher blood pressure, cholesterol, and arterial plaque buildup. Pregnancy-related conditions, such as gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, also raise the long-term risk of cardiovascular disease. Autoimmune disorders, which are more common in women, have been linked to heart complications as well. Women often develop microvascular disease, affecting small arteries rather than major coronary arteries, making detection more challenging. Psychosocial factors, such as high stress, anxiety, and depression, also contribute to cardiovascular risk. Prevention includes adopting a heart-healthy life>