Cardiovascular disease in women involves issues that are often underestimated. Knowing about them can save lives!
Well-known cardiovascular diseases such as angina, myocardial infarction (heart attack) and stroke are usually caused by damage or blockages in the blood vessels
For a long time, it was believed that cardiovascular disease was a male issue, because men were affected at a younger age. Now we know that it is a reality that also affects women.
In women, the arteries are narrower and can therefore become blocked more easily. It is therefore smaller blood vessels that are more affected in female cardiovascular disease, while in men, it is larger arteries. This explains in part why these diseases can present somewhat differently, depending on a person’s sex.
Estrogen, the hormone produced by a woman's body for much of her life, has a cardioprotective effect. It is important to know that the hormonal fluctuations women experience throughout their lives have an impact on heart health.
For example, a woman's heart works harder than usual during pregnancy. To supply enough blood to the fetus and the placenta, it must pump 6 to 7 litres of blood (compared to the usual 4 to 5 litres). Women who are predisposed to heart problems may experience issues during pregnancy as their cardiovascular system is put to the test.
The use of contraceptives high in synthetic estrogen has some clotting effect on the blood, which can increase the risk of clots in the blood vessels. Today, hormonal contraceptives usually contain low levels of synthetic estrogen, making them safe for most women.
However, their use is reserved for women who do not have a significant cardiovascular risk, based on the prescriber's assessment. It should be noted that smokers over the age of 35 should not use this type of contraceptive method, as their cardiovascular risk is considered too high from the outset.
At menopause, the natural protection afforded by estrogen diminishes considerably as hormones drop. Menopause thus becomes a significant additional risk factor for women that persists over the long term.
For a long time, it was believed that estrogen-based hormone replacement therapy (HRT) during menopause reduced cardiovascular risk.
We now know that this is not the case. In some instances, these risks may even increase.
Today, HRT can be considered, at the lowest dose and for the shortest period of time possible, to reduce certain symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes or vaginal dryness. However, your pharmacist or treating professional will make sure to weigh the potential benefits and risks of this type of treatment based on several factors, including your age, health, medical history, and needs.
Myocardial infarction may present somewhat differently in women. The following are typical signs and symptoms for men who have had a heart attack:
In women, less specific signs or symptoms will often be observed, including the following:
Therefore, the clinical presentation is often not as obvious or alarming as in men. This makes diagnosis more difficult, and all too often, medical management is delayed.
It is easy to confuse these symptoms with those of, for example, a panic attack or mere digestive issues. When in doubt, it is best to seek medical attention immediately to avoid potentially devastating consequences.
Speak to your pharmacist for additional information on cardiovascular diseases, their prevention and treatment.
