Heart disease is a major concern for both men and women from across the globe, with around 25 per cent of all deaths in India caused due to different cardiovascular conditions. Despite the fact that women account for a significant portion of the total mortality due to heart diseases, there is a prevalent misconception among many that heart problem is mostly associated with men’s health. In reality, one out of every 16 women suffer from coronary heart disease, and it accounts for approximately 18% of all female deaths, surpassing even breast cancer and all other cancers combined.
The most common symptom of heart attack is chest pain, and it is noticeable in both men and women. However, women are more likely to have certain subtle symptoms which may often not be associated with heart attack. These symptoms may include pain or aching in the upper arm, unusually fast heartbeat, nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath, excessive sweating and lightheadedness or dizziness. Women seem to develop such symptoms more frequently while they are at rest or even asleep. Emotional stress can trigger heart attack symptoms, too.
Coronary artery disease may be dissimilarly manifested in females than in males due to the less blockage of coronary arteries. This is nonobstructive coronary artery disease. Moreover, women are more likely to have blockages not only in the leading arteries but also in the smaller arteries that serve the heart. A blockage in the smaller arteries is termed small vessel heart disease or coronary microvascular disease.
It is documented that women post-menopause have heart diseases like Cardiomyopathy or dilated heart where heart muscles become very weak, and it can happen even when there are no blockages in the heart artery. This condition often referred to as heart failure can be fatal if not treated properly. In fact, it has been noted that such a condition can occur without any specific reason.
Heart failure is still a challenge in management despite the improvement in early recognition and treatment. Women between 45 and 70 years are more susceptible to heart problems, which is due to reduced physical activity with age and increased stress from work and home responsibilities. It is important to note that heart failure does not mean the end of life, as there are several treatment options available.
One of the treatment methods for heart failure is Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy, which addresses the problem of uncoordinated ventricular contractions in heart failure patients. Weakened heart muscles fail to pump adequate blood in this condition, and further complications arise when the chambers of the heart fail to synchronize. CRT involves the implantation of a device in the chest in the form of a biventricular pacemaker, which sends electrical signals to the lower chambers of the heart. This synchronization allows for improved coordination of contractions, enhancing blood pumping efficiency.
Dealing with heart disease as a pertinent health hazard for women in India requires an all-encompassing approach. There is an urgent need to promote awareness among women in India regarding heart disease. Educational campaigns directed toward women and healthcare providers can be brought into play for the dissemination of information around risk factors and the promotion of healthy lifestyles. Strategies may include encouraging regular physical activity and healthy eating habits as well as managing stress through mindfulness and social support.
Dr. Anjan Siotia – Director of Cardiology at BM Birla Heart Hospital
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