Women’s Heart Health: The Urgent Need for Awareness and Action

Sharon Butler, a 53-year-old from Mahon, Cork, faced a life-threatening situation on her 46th birthday when she experienced chest pain that she initially dismissed as indigestion. During a lunch celebration with her daughter, Butler felt a sudden discomfort that later escalated, prompting her daughter to alert her husband, who suspected a heart attack. Despite Butler’s reluctance to seek medical help, her husband insisted, leading to a diagnosis that revealed she was indeed suffering from a serious heart condition.

According to Susan Connolly, a consultant cardiologist at University Hospital Galway, heart attacks often occur due to a blockage in one of the arteries supplying the heart muscle. This blockage is frequently caused by plaque rupture, a process where fatty deposits on artery walls break apart, leading to clot formation. Connolly emphasizes that rapid response is crucial, as delays can result in irreversible heart damage. “Time is muscle,” she states, underscoring the importance of recognizing heart attack symptoms.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Chest discomfort is the most common warning sign, occurring in approximately 80% of cases. Róisín Colleran, a consultant cardiologist at Mater Private Network in Dublin, explains that this discomfort can manifest as pain, tightness, or pressure, and may feel akin to a tight bra strap. Others may experience pain in areas outside the chest, such as the neck, back, or arms. Interestingly, some individuals may not experience pain at all, but instead exhibit symptoms like nausea, breathlessness, or extreme fatigue.

The diverse nature of these symptoms often leads people to misinterpret them, resulting in unnecessary delays in seeking medical attention. Connolly highlights that many individuals mistake their symptoms for indigestion or stress, which can be dangerous. “If you feel something is wrong, get it checked out,” she advises, particularly stressing the need for women to recognize that they can also be at risk for heart attacks.

Statistically, cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death among women, claiming the lives of approximately 4,474 women in 2024, compared to 5,120 men. While women typically experience cardiovascular issues later in life due to protective hormonal factors, they face increasing risks as they approach menopause. Connolly notes that the decline in estrogen levels during this period elevates the risk of heart attacks, bringing it in line with that of men.

Acknowledging Gender Bias in Diagnosis

Research indicates a concerning trend regarding the treatment of women experiencing heart attack symptoms. A 2018 study found that women were less likely than men to receive timely interventions such as aspirin or emergency transport. Furthermore, a study from the University of Leeds revealed that women presenting with heart attack symptoms were 50% more likely to be misdiagnosed than their male counterparts. “This bias can have serious consequences,” Connolly warns, highlighting the necessity for medical professionals to recognize the unique presentation of heart disease in women.

Butler’s case exemplifies the need for heightened awareness. After being diagnosed with a spontaneous coronary artery dissection—a rare but serious condition that affects more women than men—she spent five days in the hospital receiving treatment, including aspirin and beta blockers. Reflecting on her experience, Butler acknowledged the importance of heeding symptoms and making lifestyle changes, including quitting smoking and prioritizing regular health check-ups.

Butler’s heart attack has transformed her life. She now volunteers with the Irish Heart Foundation and leads their ‘Her Heart Matters’ campaign, aimed at raising awareness about women’s heart health. She emphasizes the importance of sharing struggles and maintaining a balanced lifestyle, stating, “Women are often good at looking after others but not themselves.”

As awareness grows, experts like Connolly and Colleran stress that cardiovascular diseases are largely preventable. “Up to 90% of heart diseases can be avoided by managing risk factors,” Connolly states. Key preventive measures include understanding one’s family history, monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and adopting heart-healthy habits.

These habits include quitting smoking, maintaining a Mediterranean-style diet, and engaging in regular physical activity. “Making time for sleep and managing stress are also essential,” Colleran adds. By recognizing symptoms and understanding individual risk factors, people can significantly improve their heart health and reduce the likelihood of serious cardiovascular events.

In conclusion, the experiences of individuals like Sharon Butler highlight the critical need for increased awareness around women’s heart health. By educating women on the signs of heart attacks and addressing the biases within the medical system, it is possible to improve outcomes and save lives. If any unusual symptoms arise, it is imperative to seek medical attention promptly, as timely intervention can make a significant difference.