As part of Heart Awareness Month, cardiologists at MedStar Montgomery Medical Center in Olney are encouraging women to talk more openly about heart health, stressing that heart disease remains the number one killer of women in the United States.
According to a MedStar Health survey, men tend to be more concerned about heart health than women, and women are less likely to discuss heart related risks or symptoms with their doctors. Physicians say that gap in awareness can delay diagnosis and treatment, especially since heart disease often looks different in women.
Estelle Jean, MD, said women face unique risk factors throughout their lives that can increase their likelihood of developing heart disease. Early onset of menstruation, chronic stress and anxiety, and autoimmune conditions all play a role. She also noted that symptoms in women are often more subtle, making them easier to overlook.
Instead of the classic crushing chest pain often associated with heart attacks, women may experience pressure or squeezing in the chest, discomfort in the jaw, arms, or upper body, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, or unusual fatigue. Dr. Jean said these less obvious symptoms are why women should be proactive in discussing their risk factors and concerns with their healthcare providers. She emphasized that early conversations can help prevent heart disease rather than simply treating it after problems arise.
Pregnancy can also place significant strain on the heart, according to Minhal Makshood, MD, a cardio obstetrician at MedStar Montgomery. Blood volume increases by about 50 percent during pregnancy, which can stress the cardiovascular system even in women without prior heart conditions.
Dr. Makshood said women with chronic high blood pressure, diabetes, or uncontrolled cholesterol should be under the care of a cardiologist during pregnancy. She also warned that women who develop preeclampsia face a higher risk of cardiovascular disease later in life and should continue seeing a cardiologist even after pregnancy ends.
Oluseyi Princewill, MD, said many cases of heart disease in younger women are linked to risk factors that can be modified. She encourages patients to know their numbers by regularly checking blood pressure and getting routine bloodwork. Lifestyle choices such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising consistently, and following a heart healthy diet can significantly reduce risk.
Dr. Princewill noted that even small changes can make a difference. She said dairy products can be a good source of protein but recommends choosing low fat or fat free options. Greek yogurt, kefir probiotic drinks, and low fat, low sodium cottage cheese are among her suggested choices. She also advised paying attention to portion sizes and avoiding flavored products that are high in added sugar.
Together, the physicians say awareness, prevention, and early action are key. By understanding their risks and speaking openly with their doctors, women can take meaningful steps toward protecting their heart health at every stage of life.
