Women and heart disease

Almost every hour of every day, an Australian woman dies from coronary heart disease. On average, this equates to 20 women per day.

Research shows that women are much less likely to undergo treatment for a heart attack or angina (chest pain) in hospitals than men.

In women, the risk of cardiovascular disease changes throughout life. It's important to know the risk factors that specifically affect women and what you can do to keep your heart healthy.

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD)

• SCAD is an example of a condition that occurs more often in women.

• It happens when a split suddenly develops between the inner layers of a coronary artery. Blood flows into this space and decreases the amount of blood flowing through the artery. This means that less blood and oxygen get to the heart.

• The symptoms of SCAD are similar to those of a heart attack or angina pectoris (chest pain). Most people with SCAD have few or no known risk factors.

• Recognizing the warning signs of a heart attack and getting treatment as soon as possible is important for women of all ages.

Pregnancy complications

Pregnancy is often referred to as the "ultimate stress test" for the body. Some of the complications of pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes and high blood pressure, can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease later in life.

Risk factors and warning signs in women

Learn about the full range of risk factors and warning signs of a heart attack in women.

If you are 45 or older (or 30 or older for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander women), talk to your GP about your risk of heart attack and stroke and get a checkup cardiac.

Recovery after a heart attack or angina

Women of any age can be diagnosed with heart disease. What happens next may depend on the type of heart disease.

Many people who have been diagnosed with heart disease go on to live long and full lives. However, lifestyle changes are important to manage your long-term heart health.

If you were discharged from the hospital after a diagnosis or procedure, your recovery steps will likely include:

• Regular heart checkups with your doctor

• referral to a cardiac rehabilitation program

• to take pills

• make changes to your lifestyle, such as exercise & diet

The collective of the heart

The Heart Collective is an informal network of women with heart disease, created to provide a safe environment where women can connect, share experiences and learn from each other.

You can reach TIB Pharmacy at any time of day or night by contacting us through our 24/7 online customer support chat or by calling 510-573-0064.