Heart Diseases In Women: The Silent Threat You Shouldn’t Ignore

Heart diseases are becoming increasingly common among women, highlighting the importance of being cautious and aware. Many women aren’t even aware of the risk factors or warning signs that could be an indication of heart disease. Instead, they dismiss the symptoms as a minor inconvenience. Women feel that the symptoms may improve with rest and home remedies. Various factors can altogether contribute to heart disease in women. This can include factors like taking too much stress, hormonal changes, certain lifestyle habits, high blood pressure, or underlying health conditions such as diabetes. Lack of awareness combined with delayed diagnosis can make heart-related conditions more severe and life-threatening. Recognising these signs and risks early and addressing them can be helpful.

Silent Signs of a Heart Attack in Women

Numerous signs can be an indication of underlying heart disease. This can include warning signs like extreme pain, pressure, cold sweats, or discomfort in the chest area that may persist for more than a few minutes. Sometimes you may also experience that may not seem related to your heart. Symptoms can consist of feeling tired even after resting for enough time, pain in the jaw, neck, or upper back, nausea, and dizziness. The severity and intensity of these symptoms can vary from person to person. Do not ignore these symptoms and immediately consult a doctor.

When to Seek Help

If you are experiencing any type of unusual symptoms, especially if they last for more than a few minutes then immediately consult a doctor to seek medical help. Do not try to self-diagnose these symptoms with the help of over-the-counter pills or home remedies. Delaying the doctor's visit or overlooking the symptoms can only worsen your condition, resulting in severe complications. You should consult a doctor even if the symptoms are mild or uncertain.

Prevention

Women should stay vigilant and take proactive steps to prevent the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The key to preventing the risk of heart-related diseases is to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Focus more on eating a healthy and well-balanced diet that consists of plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lentils, and legumes. This can help support your heart's health and improve its vital function. Exercising regularly for more than 45 minutes a day can be beneficial.

Try to manage your stress with the help of deep-breathing exercises or things you like. Quit smoking. If you have high-risk factors like hypertension, diabetes, or a family history of cardiovascular disease, then going for regular checkups and screening can be essential in detecting any heart-related issues early on while preventing the risk of life-threatening complications.

Authored by Dr. Bipeenchandra Bhamre, Consultant Cardiac Surgeon at Sir H. N. Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre in Mumbai