As discussed by Dr Sharmila Kumar consulting GP at the Madison Medical Practice Hornsby
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for Australian women, yet many still underestimate their risk. One of the most pressing concerns is that women often experience heart attacks differently than men—leading to delays in diagnosis, treatment, and ultimately, poorer outcomes.
The Hidden Signs of Heart Attack in Women
While chest pain is the most common symptom for both sexes, women are more likely to experience subtler, non-chest pain symptoms that can be easily overlooked or misattributed to other conditions. These include:
- Pain in the jaw, shoulder, or back
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Indigestion
- Fatigue or unusual tiredness
These atypical symptoms often result in women arriving at hospital later than men, missing the critical window for early intervention.
Understanding the Risk Factors
Heart disease doesn’t discriminate, but certain risk factors are more prevalent—or unique—to women.
Traditional risk factors include:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Unhealthy diet
- Physical inactivity
- Obesity
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Smoking or vaping
Women-specific risk factors include:
- Early or late onset of menstruation
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia or gestational diabetes
- Early menopause
- Autoimmune diseases
- Depression
- Certain cancer treatments
These factors can significantly increase a woman’s risk of heart attack or stroke, especially during transitional life stages like menopause.
🩺 What Is a Heart Health Check?
A Heart Health Check is a 20-minute consultation with your GP to assess your risk of heart attack or stroke over the next five years. It’s subsidised by Medicare and includes:
- Blood pressure and cholesterol testing
- Lifestyle and family history review
- A personalised prevention plan—whether that’s increasing physical activity, improving diet, or managing stress
If you’re a woman aged 40 and over, or 30 and over if you’re Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, it’s time to speak to your GP about booking a Heart Health Check.
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Dr Sharmila Kumar is passionate about healthy ageing and preventive care, especially for women navigating the menopausal transition. She offers bulk-billed Heart Health Checks, making it easier for women to take proactive steps toward protecting their heart.
❤️ You Only Have One Heart—Please Look After It
Heart disease is largely preventable. With greater awareness, early detection, and lifestyle changes, women can dramatically reduce their risk and live longer, healthier lives.
Your heart deserves your attention. Book your Heart Health Check today—and encourage the women in your life to do the same. https://hornsby.themadisonmedicalpractice.com.au/book-appointment-online/
