How Do Heart Tests Differ for Men and Women?

Heart disease is a leading cause of death — in fact, it accounts for one in every five deaths in the United States. However, not everyone is aware that heart disease manifests differently in men and women. Dr. Avi Ishaaya believes that knowing these differences and getting the necessary heart tests can help prevent a heart attack or other serious complications in the future.

Are you concerned about your cardiovascular health? Call Dr. Avi Ishaaya Centers to book an appointment and learn more about heart testing. Our Los Angeles, CA team is dedicated to helping you maintain a healthy heart for life.

How does heart disease differ in men and women?

Heart disease refers to a range of conditions that impact the heart and blood vessels. While many risk factors are similar between men and women — such as high blood pressure, smoking, and poor diet — there are some notable differences in how heart disease presents itself in each gender. For example:

• Symptoms: Men are likely to have chest pain as a symptom of heart disease, while women experience nausea, sweating, or fatigue in addition to chest discomfort.
• Age of onset: On average, men are diagnosed with heart disease earlier in life compared to women. However, after menopause, a woman's risk for heart disease increases significantly.
• Type of heart disease: Men tend to develop blockages in the main arteries of the heart, while women are more prone to issues in the smaller arteries.

Why is it important to understand these differences?

Everyone should know how heart disease presents itself in men and women because it can greatly impact treatment and long-term outcomes. For instance, women are sometimes misdiagnosed or not taken seriously when their symptoms don't fit the traditional profile of a heart attack. This delay in diagnosis can lead to serious consequences, including death. Healthcare providers and patients should be aware of these issues to ensure the best possible care.

Heart testing for men and women

Until recently, heart tests were primarily made based on studies conducted on men. Now, there is more awareness of the need for gender-specific approaches when it comes to cardiovascular health. At Dr. Avi Ishaaya Centers in Los Angeles, CA, we may recommend one or more of the following tests based on your gender, individual risk factors, and symptoms:

• Electrocardiogram (EKG): A noninvasive test that measures electrical activity in your heart.
• Echocardiogram (ECHO): This imaging test uses sound waves to accurately picture the circulatory system and identify blockages.
• Stress test: A test that involves monitoring your heart during and after exercise to detect common signs of heart disease.
• Arterial ultrasound: A test that uses sound waves to check the carotid arteries in the neck as well as blood flow within the veins.
• Cardiometabolic testing: A blood test that checks for specific markers that indicate potential heart issues.
• At-home monitor: A portable device that records the electrical activity in the heart over a period of time to detect abnormalities.

Improve your cardiovascular health

Heart disease doesn't discriminate based on gender, but being aware of the differences between men and women can help with early detection and treatment. At Dr. Avi Ishaaya Centers, our team is dedicated to providing tailored care for individuals in the Los Angeles, CA, area. Contact us today to book an appointment for heart testing. Meet with Dr. Avi Ishaaya and take the first step toward a healthier heart.