Heart Disease in Women

Heart disease, the leading killer of women, can affect women differently than men. 

• Coronary microvascular disease occurs in small blood vessels of the heart and is more common in women. 
• Often, the first sign of cardiovascular disease in women is a heart attack, stroke, or heart failure. 
• It's also common for women to experience lesser-known symptoms of heart disease. For example, you may feel more shortness of breath, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, and left-arm or neck pain in addition to chest pain or pressure. 
• Pregnancy, menopause, and stress can also affect women's hearts and require personalized care from knowledgeable experts.

We are aware of these differences and can choose the most appropriate tests to evaluate your condition. Whether you have been diagnosed with heart disease or are concerned about your risk and want to take steps now, we can help you manage your heart health and reduce the risk of future events.

Dedicated Women’s Heart Specialists
We provide sex-specific evaluations and treatments in accordance with the American Heart Association guidelines on the prevention of cardiovascular disease in women.

Experts in Heart Disease During Pregnancy and Beyond
We provide expert heart care to pregnant women who have pre-existing heart conditions, as well as women who develop heart disease during pregnancy. Women who experience complications during pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes, hypertension, or preeclampsia, are more likely to develop heart disease later in life. After menopause, women are more prone to stress-induced heart muscle disease (cardiomyopathy). We help you prevent and treat heart disease at every stage of your life.

Personalized Treatment Options
We tailor your treatments to your needs. For example, women may need lower doses of medications than men to have the same benefit and avoid harmful side effects. Compared with men, women may also have a more profound response to cardiac resynchronization therapy for advanced heart failure.

Ongoing Sex-Specific Research
We conduct sex-specific research to promote ongoing advances in women’s heart care. We are also researching genetic markers to better understand why differences exist between men and women, and to identify which women may be at greatest risk for developing heart disease. Our efforts may help us personalize your care.