After a certain age all women undergo menopause. This is the period which signifies that a woman will no longer be able to conceive, procreate and have children. The main signifier of menopause is a permanent stop in menstruation. Menopause also bring with itself many health complications such as mental health problems, hot flashes and heart diseases. After menopause women may experience a decrease in the blood flow to the heart, this is called angina. They may face other heart-related problems which could also cause blockage of blood flow. This restricted blood flow makes them prone to heart illnesses. Why are women vulnerable to heart disease after menopause? The answer is because of major hormonal fluctuations. However, not all women may have the same outcome after menopause.
Dr. Abhijit Borse, an Interventional Cardiologist at Asian Heart Institute, Mumbai said to TheHealthsite.com, “With the right lifestyle changes and preventive measures, the risk of heart diseases can be significantly reduced. There are certain risk factors which make some women more vulnerable and we are here to talk more about them.”
Postmenopausal Heart Disease In Women: What Are The Risk Factors?
It is important for all to understand the risk factors that are associated with heart disease in postmenopausal women. These factors can be easily averted along with heart complications only if you are a little bit more disciplined and lead a little more healthy lifestyle.
- Age: According to Dr. Borse, age is the first and foremost factor. Old age makes you prone to heart diseases. He says, “The risk of heart disease increases with age, particularly after menopause.”
- Hormonal Changes in Women: According to Dr. Borse, estrogen levels decline after menopause, which may contribute to an increased risk of heart disease.
- Family History: “A family history of heart disease can significantly elevate the risk,” says Dr. Borse
- Sedentary Lifestyle: According to Dr. Borse, lack of physical activity can lead to obesity, high blood pressure, and other risk factors for heart disease.
- Poor Diet: He says that a diet high in saturated fats, cholesterol, and sodium can increase the risk of heart disease.
- Smoking: Stop smoking. He also went on to say that smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease in women of all ages.
- High Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: These conditions can damage the arteries and increase the risk of heart disease.