Matters of the Heart: Unique Challenges Women Face in Cardiovascular Health
In ancient traditions, the heart is often portrayed as the center of life. Many indigenous cultures view the heart as the bridge between the worlds of matter and spirit, a space where peace and harmony reside. Similarly, from yogic teachings, we can experience emotional well-being and a deep connection to ourselves and others when the energy of the heart chakra is open and flowing. These sacred tenets offer a profound reminder of the heart’s central position within the body -- not just as a physical organ but as the source of love, wisdom, and spiritual connection.
When it comes to heart health, women often face challenges that are overlooked or misunderstood. While cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for women globally, the symptoms, risk factors, and even treatment options can differ significantly from those for men. This month, we are highlighting some unique challenges women face when it comes to their cardiovascular health.
Why Women’s Heart Health is Different
1. Subtle Symptoms: Women are more likely to experience what doctors call an “atypical heart attack”. This refers to symptoms such as nausea, jaw pain, fatigue, or shortness of breath, rather than classic chest pain. These symptoms are often mistaken for less serious conditions, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment and therefore poorer outcomes.
2. Hormonal Fluctuations: Estrogen provides some protection against heart disease, but unbalanced hormonal shifts during menopause, pregnancy, or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can increase cardiovascular risks. For example, gestational diabetes or preeclampsia during pregnancy can raise the likelihood of heart disease later in life.
3. Underrepresentation in Research: Unsurprisingly, most cardiovascular research has focused on men, leading to gaps in understanding how heart disease manifests in women. This has resulted in less effective diagnostic tools and treatments tailored to women’s needs.
4. Mental Health and Stress: Women are much more likely to experience chronic stress, anxiety, and depression, all of which are linked to heart disease. The emotional burden of caregiving, work-life balance, and societal pressures (which abuse and minimize the power and strength of divine feminine energy) can take a toll on the cardiovascular health of individuals and entire communities.
5. Autoimmune Conditions: Women are more likely to experience autoimmune disease like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, which increase inflammation and heart disease risk.
It is likely that you have received abundant advice on the importance of adopting heart-healthy habits like a balanced diet, regular movement, stress management, and quality sleep.
Here are a few additional ways to prioritize your heart health:
Know Your Numbers: Regularly monitor your blood pressure and heart-centric blood tests like a lipid panel, uric acid, inflammatory markers (CRP and homocysteine), insulin, and blood sugar levels.
Advocate for Yourself: If something feels off, don’t hesitate to ask for additional testing or request a second (or third!) opinion. Look for providers who embrace a mix of conventional and holistic interventions.
Seek Community and Connection: Strong social ties and emotional support have been linked to better heart health. Nurture your relationships and seek out communities that uplift and inspire you.
Your heart is your lifeline, and as such, it deserves the same care and attention you give to others. May your heart enjoy health and continually guide you to love, growth, and an expansive existence.
Aligned in Health,
Robert R. Crosbie, MD, MPH