How Heart Disease Differs in Men and Women

Understanding the Differences in Heart Disease Symptoms Between Men and Women

Introduction

Heart disease is a major concern globally, and especially in the UAE, where it is a leading cause of death. It is no longer just a problem for older adults, as people in their 20s are now suffering from heart disease. Cardiovascular disease is caused by various factors such as obesity, diabetes, smoking, hypertension, and lack of exercise.

What is Heart Disease?

Heart disease refers to a variety of disorders in the heart's blood vessels that can lead to a heart attack. It is caused by plaque buildup in the arteries, which narrows the arteries connecting to the heart. This narrowing prevents adequate blood flow to the heart, and in some cases, a clot may form, further obstructing blood flow and causing a heart attack. Heart disease can also include congestive heart failure, heart valve problems, and arrhythmia.

Heart Disease Differences in Men and Women

Heart disease can present itself differently in men and women. Here are some key differences:

Women and Men's Hearts are Different

• Women have smaller hearts and higher heart rates than men.
• Women's hearts beat 78 to 82 times per minute, while men's hearts beat 70 to 72 times per minute.
• Women have less plaque buildup in their arteries, but it is different from how it manifests in men.
• Female hormones narrow arteries, making women more prone to artery blockages and blood clots that are difficult to treat.

Varying Risk Factors

• Women's reproductive history can increase the risk factors for heart disease.
• Certain diseases during pregnancy, like gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, can increase the chances of getting heart disease in the future.
• Studies have shown that women with endometriosis are three times more likely to experience heart attacks or require treatment for blocked arteries.
• Women with preeclampsia, endometriosis, or gestational diabetes should consult cardiologists to learn how to live a healthy lifestyle and identify the signs and symptoms of heart disease.

Varying Symptoms

• While some heart attack symptoms are similar in men and women, women are more likely to experience symptoms not linked to chest pain.
• Symptoms in women might include shortness of breath, abdominal, neck, upper back, shoulder, or jaw discomfort, pain in the arms, sweating, nausea or vomiting, indigestion, dizziness or lightheadedness, and unusual fatigue.
• These symptoms may not be as noticeable as chest pain and can lead to misdiagnosis or delayed treatment.

Different Diagnostic Tests

• Men and women may receive different diagnostic care when presenting with heart disease symptoms.
• The cTn test, which measures troponin circulation levels to determine damage to the heart, may have different clinical thresholds for men and women.
• Other tests, like cardiac catheterization, may be more appropriate for diagnosing heart attacks in men than in women.

False Symptoms in Women

• Women are more likely to experience symptoms that mimic a heart attack.
• These symptoms can include coronary spasms, coronary dissections, and broken heart syndrome caused by emotional stress.

Different Cholesterol Build-up

• Women tend to develop plaque buildup in the small blood vessels of the heart, while men experience it in the largest arteries supplying blood to the heart.
• Inflammation is also a factor that contributes to heart attacks in both men and women.

Differences in Biology

• Men and women have different physiologies and anatomies.
• Women have narrower blood vessels and smaller hearts than men, and these differences can cause heart disease to progress in different ways.
• This is why men and women may require different diagnostics and treatment methods.

Conclusion

Heart disease is a serious condition, and it is important to recognize that men and women may experience symptoms differently. It is crucial to consult a qualified physician if you suspect you have heart disease symptoms to receive appropriate care and treatment.