Women and Heart: Why we are Different?

A man and a woman have always been compared to being equally strong or equally weak, equally powerful or equally capable, but when it comes to health, being a man or a woman has been one of the significant factors impacting each one’s health differently for obvious biological differences.

Cardio Vascular health has been one such factor that proves once again that “women are not just smaller men”. Albeit the symptoms and causes of cardio vascular diseases is due to similar lifestyle choices amongst men and women, the extent and effects of the problem in women is often fatal and unfortunately, frequently underestimated. It is important to pay attention to female-specific risk factors that increase chances of risk for women —risk factors that are unique to women – those that men do not experience. This distinction is crucial so that appropriate preventive interventions can be undertaken for good heart and health of women patients.

As 29th September is recognized as World Heart Day, this year has been dedicated to the awareness on Cardio Vascular Diseases (CVD), which is the number one cause of death on the planet today.

While several traditional risk factors for heart issues such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, tobacco and obesity affect both women and men, several other factors may play a greater role in the development of heart disease in women according to Narayana Healthcare.

Menopause is a major distinction factor. What is Menopause? It is a phase in a woman’s reproductive lifespan where she ceases to menstruate within the age group 40-60. It is due to a natural decline in reproductive hormones when a woman reaches her 40s or 50s.

How are Women different?

According to studies, men usually develop CVD at a younger age and have a higher risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) than women, while women’s chances of risk of risk is higher post menopause. This is due to the presence of Estrogen, the female sex hormone present in women that moderates and reduces cardiac related severities by supporting smooth functioning of the cardiovascular system in women.

Clinical studies of CHD have found that women with CHD are usually older than men with CHD and have a higher expression of cardiovascular risk factors. In particular, the incidence of fatal CHD is higher in older women while the improvement in CHD morbidity and mortality in young women (<55 years) has been stagnant. In contrast, men usually have a 2-fold higher incidence of coronary heart disease and related mortality than women but the gap in morbidity shrinks with increasing age as elderly women experience greater incidences of heart disease. (source: https://www.sciencedirect.com )

Life post Menopause

Menopause is a part of a woman’s reproductive cycle and is unavoidable. But there is a lot you can do to go through a healthy menopause and take care of cardiac wellness. Here are some points to remember:

• A proper diet (rich in calcium, vitamin, and antioxidant) will help you overcome the hormonal changes. Include phytoestrogen like: dried beans, peas, garlic, nuts, flax seeds, sesame seeds, etc. They help in minimizing the symptoms and problems due to menopause.
• It is highly recommended to indulge in any kind of physical activity like yoga, dance, swimming etc. Even a minimum of brisk walks daily will do a good deal of help.
• Quit smoking. Inhaling smoke from tobacco, first-hand or second-hand, is the worst thing you can do to your heart. Cigarette smoking reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, in turn putting a lot of strain on the heart.
• Manage stress. Find better ways to manage stress and not succumbing to overeating, alcohol and smoking can help tremendously. Practicing meditation, yoga, or regular exercise are good ways to cope with stress.
• Prioritize a good night’s sleep. Lack of sleep can not only affect your performance at work and daily activities but can also adversely affect your health and heart.
• Cardiac Care. Go for regular health check-ups. After the age of forty, the annual evaluation of blood pressure is advised. Meet your obstetrician, physician, or a cardiologist. Discuss your symptoms. If required commence hormonal therapy.
• Stay Aware. Be mindful of the changes your body and heart are undergoing. Remember; never be embarrassed to ask for help.

A lot of female heart patients are confused and clueless about their heart health.  The more we will talk, learn and exchange information about this, the closer we are to a healthy menopause and a healthy heart.

Therefore, this World Heart Day use your HEAD to learn about cardiovascular issues and risks and act upon the knowledge. Use your INFLUENCE to set an example to your loved ones and colleagues to make positive lifestyle changes for a healthy heart. Use your COMPASSION to make a difference in the society about heart health. Use your HEART to make better choices. Be HEART SMART!

Source links:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2590093519300256

https://www.narayanahealth.org/blog/menopause-and-heart-disease/

https://www.narayanahealth.org/blog/how-to-prevent-heart-diseases/