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Originally published February 5, 2024
Last updated May 7, 2025
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According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, heart disease is the leading cause of death among American women, but they still tend to be underdiagnosed.
“There is still a lack of awareness about women’s unique risk factors and symptoms, and more women than men die each year from heart disease,” says Dr. Helga Van Herle, a cardiologist with the USC Cardiac and Vascular Institute, part of Keck Medicine of USC, who practices at USC Verdugo Hills Hospital.
Historically, not enough women have been included in heart disease research, experts note. Increasing women’s representation in research is important because women may respond differently to medications and treatments and need different approaches to care.
Fortunately, today’s experts are learning a great deal about heart disease in women — and sharing how women can recognize their additional risk factors and unique symptoms.
Men and women share many risk factors, including coronary artery disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, smoking, excessive drinking, chronic stress and being overweight.
“However, there are unique risk factors for women, such as gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia — which is high blood pressure during pregnancy — certain birth control pills and menopause,” says Dr. Van Herle.
The resulting hormonal fluctuations may affect cholesterol levels, blood pressure and blood vessel structure. Therefore, it’s essential for women to discuss their hormonal health with their doctors.
Some women with heart disease don’t have any symptoms, but others could experience:
Heart attack symptoms in women can be different compared to men. For instance, experts say, while chest pain is common for both, women are more likely to experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, nausea, fatigue or discomfort in the neck, jaw or back.
Dr. Van Herle says that men and women can both experience chest pain, but women are more likely to also experience:
Dr. Van Herle adds that women dealing with mental stress are more likely to have symptoms when they’re asleep.
It’s important for everyone to learn how to spot a stroke F.A.S.T. As it comes to heart health, stroke is the fifth most common cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of severe, long-term disability.
Both men and women can experience numbness in the face, arm or leg, trouble speaking, vision problems or a sudden and severe headache.
Symptoms unique to women include:
If you experience signs of a heart attack or stroke, call 911. Fast action is crucial, so make the call even if you’re not sure.
Answer the dispatcher’s questions as clearly as possible and follow their instructions — they could save your life.
Stay calm to keep your heart rate as slow as possible. If you’re having trouble, take long, slow, deep breaths.
If you’re experiencing stroke symptoms, doctors recommend that you also lie down on your side with your head elevated.
The best way to prevent a heart attack or stroke is to reduce your risk for heart disease.
The first step is finding out what your risk factors are and being ready to take action. Even if something seems beyond your control — such as family history of heart disease — there are still things you can do:
To learn more about your risk factors and what you can do, make an appointment with your doctor today.
If you ever experience the symptoms of a heart attack or stroke, call 911 immediately.
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