Women's Heart Disease: Why Personalized Care Matters
Women's Heart Disease: Why Personalized Care Matters
Heart disease presents uniquely in women, yet many are unaware of their distinct risks and symptoms. Learn how Concierge Medicine of Cincinnati provides comprehensive cardiac care through specialized screening and personalized attention.
February is Go Red for Women’s Heart Health Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the unique risks and symptoms of heart disease in women. Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death among women in the United States, but many are unaware of how their symptoms and risk factors differ from those of men. At Concierge Medicine of Cincinnati (CMoC), we understand these differences and provide a personalized, comprehensive approach to mid-life women’s heart health through extended appointment times and tailored care.
Why is Heart Disease in Women Different?
Heart disease in women often presents differently than in men, making it more challenging to diagnose and treat effectively. While men are more likely to experience classic symptoms like chest pain, women often report subtler signs, including fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, or discomfort in the neck, jaw, or back. Hormonal changes during menopause also play a significant role in elevating cardiovascular risk by increasing LDL ("bad" cholesterol) levels and reducing HDL ("good" cholesterol).
Moreover, women are more prone to conditions like microvascular disease (small vessel disease) and spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD), which traditional tests may not always detect. This underscores the importance of specialized screening and individualized care, particularly during mid-life.
Advanced Screening: The Key to Women's Heart Health
From CT Coronary Calcium Scoring to Advanced Lipid Testing, understanding your cardiovascular health has never been more crucial. At CMoC, we recognize that women's heart disease often manifests differently than men's, requiring a tailored approach to screening and prevention, especially during mid-life transitions.
1. CT Coronary Calcium Scoring
A CT Coronary Calcium Score (CAC) is a non-invasive imaging test that measures the amount of calcified plaque in the coronary arteries. For women, this test is especially valuable in the post-menopausal phase when the risk of atherosclerosis rises. The CAC score helps guide decisions about preventive therapies, including lifestyle modifications and medications. This quick, painless procedure can be a crucial step in protecting women’s long-term cardiovascular health.
2. Carotid Ultrasound
A carotid ultrasound evaluates the health of the carotid arteries, which supply blood to the brain. Women with risk factors such as high blood pressure or a family history of stroke benefit from this test, as it detects early signs of plaque buildup and arterial thickening. Identifying and managing these risk factors early is essential for preventing stroke and cardiovascular complications.
3. Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI)
The Ankle-Brachial Index compares blood pressure in the ankles and arms to assess peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is often underdiagnosed in women. Early detection of PAD is important, as it can be an early warning sign of systemic cardiovascular disease. This non-invasive, simple test is part of our comprehensive approach to heart health.
4. Advanced Lipid Testing
Traditional cholesterol panels may not always tell the full story, particularly for women with complex risk profiles. Advanced lipid testing evaluates particle size and density, lipoprotein(a) levels, and other markers that help paint a clearer picture of cardiovascular risk. This testing is ideal for mid-life women experiencing hormonal shifts or those with a family history of heart disease.
5. Electrocardiogram (ECG) and Stress Testing
For women who may experience atypical symptoms, combining an electrocardiogram with stress testing is critical. These tests help detect hidden coronary artery disease and other issues that standard diagnostic tools may miss. CMoC ensures these tests are part of a comprehensive cardiovascular assessment for women, especially those undergoing mid-life transitions.
How Concierge Medicine of Cincinnati Puts Women’s Heart Health First
CMoC is committed to addressing the unmet needs of women’s heart health by offering longer appointment times, which allow our providers to delve deeply into each patient’s medical history, risk factors, and symptoms. Our personalized approach ensures that we not only detect potential problems early but also provide individualized prevention and treatment plans.
Our focus on mid-life women’s heart health includes considering the effects of menopause, stress, and lifestyle changes that are unique to this stage of life. We collaborate closely with our patients to develop actionable strategies, from dietary changes and exercise routines to advanced medical interventions when necessary.
During Go Red for Women’s Heart Health Month, take the time to assess your heart health and prioritize preventive care. CMoC is here to provide you with the tools and expertise needed to protect your heart. Schedule an appointment today to learn more about how our comprehensive screening options and personalized care can benefit you.
Take charge of your heart health today. Contact us to schedule a heart health checkup and join the Go Red for Women movement to help spread awareness.