What You Need to Know About Women’s Heart Health
Whether it’s navigating a sudden snowstorm or the daily hustle of life, women often put their own health on the back burner. But understanding your heart health is a lifelong journey that starts much earlier than most realize. Learn everything you need to know about women's heart health in this WFMY 2 Your Well-Being conversation with Kardie Tobb, DO, cardiologist at Cone Health Heart & Vascular.
The Hidden Danger of Winter Chores
We’ve all been there—grabbing a shovel to clear the driveway. While it feels like a standard workout, the combination of cold weather and rigorous activity creates a "perfect storm" for the heart.
"When you’re out in the cold, your vessels constrict," explains Dr. Tobb. "[The cold air] squeezes the vessels, causing the blood pressure and heart rate to rise, and reduces the oxygen reaching the heart muscles."
Watch for these red flags while outdoors:
-
Shortness of breath that feels out of the ordinary.
-
Chest discomfort, tightness, squeezing, or pressure.
-
Lightheadedness or dizziness.
If you feel these, stop immediately. Even if you consider yourself healthy, sudden rigorous activity can trigger an issue.
When Should Women Take Care of their Heart Health? (It’s Sooner Than You Think)
A common misconception is that heart disease is a "later in life" problem. Dr. Tobb suggests that the most pivotal moment for a woman to take charge is the transition from a pediatrician to an adult doctor—specifically around age 25.
Think of a heart screening as the ultimate 25th birthday gift to yourself. At this age, you should establish your baseline for:
-
Blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
-
Diabetes and A1C screenings.
-
Body Mass Index (BMI) and lifestyle habits like smoking.
Risk Factors Unique to Women
While high blood pressure and smoking are universal risks, women face unique biological markers:
-
Pregnancy Complications: A history of gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, or gestational diabetes increases your long-term cardiovascular risk.
-
PCOS: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome can lead to "metabolic cardio-diseases," including increased belly fat and early-onset diabetes.
-
Inflammatory Diseases: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, which disproportionately affect women, act as significant heart disease markers.
Knowledge is Power: Advanced Screenings
Beyond the standard blood test, Dr. Tobb highlights two game-changers:
-
Lipoprotein A: A genetic marker that identifies your risk for stroke and heart disease, regardless of your lifestyle.
-
Coronary Calcium Scoring: A quick, low-dose CT scan that looks for calcification in the arteries. If your score is zero, your risk is minimal. If not, it’s time for a targeted prevention plan.
Take Action: The One-Stop Shop
We know women are busy. Between careers, family, and community, finding time for four different appointments is nearly impossible. That is why community events—like the annual Cone Health Women's Heart Community Event—are vital. These "one-stop shops" allow women to get their blood pressure, lipids, A1C, and even mammograms checked in under an hour.
Remember: 80% of heart disease is preventable. By knowing your numbers and your family history, you aren’t just saving your own life—you’re empowering your family and your community to do the same.
