Women face a higher risk of death from heart attacks than men due to distinct biological differences in how cardiovascular disease manifests in the female body, according to medical specialists.
While men generally have a higher probability of suffering a heart attack, the severity and mortality rate are higher for women. Dr. Christian Karmelic, a cardiologist at Clínica Universidad de los amounts, noted that for the female population, the probability of dying from a myocardial infarction is currently higher than dying from cancer.
Many women remain unaware that cardiovascular disease is their primary health risk. This lack of awareness is compounded by the fact that female hearts do not function identically to male hearts.
Biological differences and hidden symptoms
Dr. Mónica Acevedo, director of Sochicar, explains that women's hearts are relatively smaller and possess thinner, less distensible coronary arteries. This can lead to microvascular alterations that cause heart attacks or angina even without visible obstructions in the larger vessels.
These physiological nuances mean traditional medical exams often fail to detect issues in a timely manner. Furthermore, women often present with atypical symptoms that differ from the classic chest pain described in men.
Warning signs include shortness of breath, extreme fatigue, and diffuse discomfort in the chest, jaw, neck, or back. Dr. Karmelic added that patients may also experience sharp pains, difficulty swallowing, or discomfort in the upper abdominal region.
Other indicators include cold sweats, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and unexplained sleep disturbances. Because these signs are often mistaken for stress or exhaustion, many women delay seeking medical consultation.
Hormonal shifts also play a critical role in cardiovascular health. Before menopause, estrogen provides a protective effect on the cardiovascular system, but this protection diminishes significantly after menopause, particularly if it occurs early or via surgery.
Medical experts advise women to consult specialists before the age of 45 to manage future risks. Prevention through healthy eating, regular exercise, and monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol remains the most effective defense against these diseases.
