It’s easy to brush off the hot flashes, night sweats and mood swings that come with menopause as just part of getting older. But underneath these familiar symptoms, more subtle shifts in your heart health may occur.
Heart and blood vessel disease is still the leading cause of death in women, and the risk of heart disease goes up during and after the menopausal transition. This is mainly because of changes in a hormone called estrogen. Understanding the link between menopause and heart issues is vital for all menopausal women.
Does Menopause Affect the Heart?
Estrogen helps keep your blood vessels stretchy and supports healthy cholesterol levels in your blood. When estrogen drops, that helpful effect goes away. At the same time, many women see changes in body fat, high blood pressure and blood glucose – all of which can lead to a higher risk for heart disease.
These changes can raise your overall cardiovascular risk.
Menopause Isn’t Just a Hormone Shift
Studies show that women after menopause might experience a rise in blood pressure. Gaining weight, especially around the belly (abdominal fat), becomes more common. That kind of fat is linked to an increased risk of heart disease.
Even without clear signs, your body might be changing in ways that raise your cardiovascular risks. That's why many experts say women should not wait for a warning sign such as chest pain.
The good news: Menopause is a chance to make a fresh start. It's the perfect time to check on your heart health and begin good habits that can protect you for a long time.
Recognizing Heart Attack Signs in Women
Your body talks to you in quiet ways. When it comes to your heart health during menopause, really listening is key. Heart attacks in women
often do not look like the sudden chest-clutching pain you see in movies. Instead, you might have signs that are easy to ignore, but they are very important.
Watch for these signs:
- Breaking out into a cold sweat for no reason
- Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
- Feeling sick to your stomach or throwing up
- Pain in the jaw, neck, back, or arm(s)
- Shortness of breath
- Unusual tiredness
If any of these signs are new, don't go away or happen when you are active, talk to your doctor. Finding heart problems early can make a huge difference.
What You Can Do Right Now
You do not have to change everything overnight. Small changes make a big difference – especially when you stick with them. Here's how to start building a healthy lifestyle:
- Get moving. Being physically active helps lower high blood pressure, control blood sugar and reduce tummy fat. Try for at least 150 minutes of brisk walking each week. Every step counts!
- Eat smart. Choose healthier, whole foods. Eat less unhealthy saturated fats and added sugars. Eat lots of colorful fruits, veggies, healthy meats and whole grains.
- Know your numbers. Get regular screenings
for cholesterol levels in your blood, blood pressure and blood sugar. Knowing these numbers will help you work with your doctor on a plan just for you.
- Ask about hormone medicine. For some women, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help with menopause symptoms. Your doctor can help you decide if HRT is right for you.
Find a provider at Union Health who understands the importance of protecting your heart before, during and after menopause.