Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women, according to the American Heart Association. More women die from heart disease and stroke than cancer, including breast cancer. Heart disease is also known as a silent killer because it can exist without symptoms, until you have a heart attack or stroke. In addition, women sometimes experience symptoms not always associated with heart disease and they may not be properly diagnosed. However, if you are at risk there are steps that can be taken to detect heart disease in women.
Step 1
Watch for common signs. The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services notes these as chest or arm pain or discomfort, dizziness, nausea or abnormal heartbeats.
Step 2
Be aware of uncommon symptoms. The Women's Heart Foundation states that it is harder to diagnose heart disease in women: "Women often present with milder symptoms like unusual fatigue, shortness of breath and only mild 'chest discomfort,' but these symptoms are not to be taken lightly and deserve prompt attention." If these symptoms are present you need to see your doctor for testing that can confirm a diagnosis of heart disease.
Step 3
Check your blood pressure regularly. High blood pressure can exist without symptoms or warning signs. Get your pressure checked at the doctor's office and check it at home in between appointments if necessary. Follow your doctor's instructions for how often to check your pressure. According to the Department of Health & Human Services, "Years of high blood pressure can damage artery walls, causing them to become stiff and narrow." This can lead to heart disease. Watch for a reading between 120/80 to 139/89, as this is considered prehypertensive. If your reading is at this level or higher it indicates heart disease and you will need to take steps to lower it.
Step 4
Get an electrocardiogram. This physician-administered test involves placing small electrodes on your chest that monitor the heart's electrical activity. It can help to diagnose irregular heart rhythms, show if you have already had a heart attack and can detect if your heart is not getting enough oxygen. All of the above can be signs of heart disease.
Step 5
Have an electron-beam computed tomography (EBT or EBCT). This exam shows calcium and plaque build-up in coronary arteries. The results can help to determine your risk of heart attack. According to the Women's Heart Foundation, "EBT is classified as a low-risk screening tool to detect early signs of plaque in women with several risk factors or symptoms and can help guide your health care professional on further treatment."
Step 6
Talk to your doctor about having a carotid Doppler ultrasound. This exam uses sound waves and is designed to show areas of blockage and narrowing in your carotid artery. When the carotid artery becomes blocked or narrowed your risk for a heart attack or stroke increases.
Tips and Warnings
- Your best defense is to see your doctor regularly to test your blood pressure, cholesterol levels and other factors that increase your risk of heart disease. Make healthy lifestyle choices and reduce the risk factors you can.
- Do not ignore symptoms, no matter how mild they may seem. Pay special attention to the uncommon symptoms women may experience. Ask your doctor for tests and exams to determine your risk.
