Doctors reveal how to tell if it’s hormones, heart health or stress
Pain or tightness in your chest can be not only uncomfortable, but also unsettling. Especially when it comes seemingly out of nowhere and you’re not sure of the cause. Many of us immediately begin to worry about our heart health.
And while a heart attack can cause chest pain, there are many other less serious culprits, too. Here, doctors explain what causes chest pain in a woman and how to determine what’s behind your discomfort…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>
What causes chest pain in a woman?
Buckle up, because this is a loaded question. Between hormonal fluctuations and a higher risk of cardiovascular events compared to men, there are a few common culprits that may be behind your chest pain.
Heart palpitations
Heart palpitations are actually a very common symptom in women who are going through perimenopause and menopause. This sensation of the heart beating hard or fast (or both) is often described as a mild ache or pain, explains Bruce Dorr, MD, FPMRS, FACOG, practitioner at the Littleton GYN & Wellness/Right Balance Hormone Health Center and senior medical advisor for Biote.
“It is almost never truly painful, but it can certainly be distressing,” he says. “Palpitations can also be a result of estrogen excess or deficiency, related to thyroid problems, a result of metabolic concerns like diabetes or glucose problems, anxiety [such as a panic attack] or even cardiac problems.”
Heart receptors are very sensitive, Dr. Dorr says, and often influenced by many aspects of the brain and hormone-producing organs.
Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD)
GERD is a common, more severe case of acid reflux where acid from the stomach rises into the esophagus and causes pain, indigestion and heartburn. In some cases, this condition may cause the esophagus to spasm, which may cause sudden and severe type of chest pain, explains Bradley Serwer, MD, Interventional Cardiologist and Chief Medical Officer at VitalSolution, an Ingenovis Health company that offers cardiovascular and anesthesiology services to hospitals nationwide.
Angina
This is a condition related to the heart that is typically considered an early warning sign that you’re at an increased risk of a heart attack, says Eduardo Sanchez, MD, FAAFP, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) for Prevention for the American Heart Association (AHA). It can feel like squeezing, burning, heaviness or pressure in your chest, he says. It can also cause shortness of breath or fatigue. Angina occurs because one or more coronary arteries are narrowed or blocked by plaque buildup.
While it can be a sign of an impending heart attack, there are a few types of angina women should be aware of. The most common is stable angina, Dr. Sanchez explains, which usually occurs during physical strenuous activity or emotional distress. Unstable angina occurs in the absence of physical activity, and this is the more serious variation that could be a warning of an attack.
Stress-induced cardiomyopathy
Also known as Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, this is a condition where there is a sudden, temporary weakening of the heart muscle, explains Dr. Serwer. It is often referred to as “broken heart syndrome” and is commonly seen after someone is exposed to psychological or physical shock. This may present as shortness of breath or chest pain in women, and it often mimics a heart attack, he adds. The difference? There is no disruption of blood flow to the heart muscle, and a majority of the time, the heart function returns to normal. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
Stress cardiomyopathy is most common in postmenopausal women. This is because after menopause, you have an increased sympathetic nervous system drive (responsible for fight-or-flight responses) as well as predisposition to cardiovascular dysfunction. Higher oxidative stress, anxiety, depression and sleep disturbances reported by postmenopausal women also play a role.
Heart attack
Both coronary artery disease (a common type of heart disease) and a myocardial infarction (heart attack) are the most severe, life-threatening causes of chest pain in a woman. These should be addressed by medical professionals as quickly as possible. It is important to note, though, that women do not always present with classic symptoms of chest pain in this case, explains Dr. Serwer.
“They are more likely to have shortness of breath, nausea, indigestion or upper abdominal pain,” he says. “Because their symptoms may be different from a classic presentation, the time to diagnosis may be delayed.”
Other common signs of a heart attack that may accompany chest pain in women include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach, breaking out in a cold sweat or lightheadedness.
When women should see a doctor for chest pain
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It is crucial to pay attention to your body and address chest pain promptly no matter the cause, says Dr. Serwer.
“Don’t ignore symptoms, especially if the symptoms start suddenly,” he advises. “Seek medical attention and raise the concern that you may be afraid you’re having a heart attack.”
It’s also important to be proactive, he says, so be aware of your individual risks for developing heart disease such as other medical conditions and family history. You can start modifying your risk early with guidance from your doctor.
Your lungs play a vital role in ensuring that your body receives the oxygen it needs to function properly. When your lungs are healthy, breathing feels natural and effortless. However, when there is a problem, your body will often send warning signs. Ignoring these signs can lead to serious health conditions, including chronic lung diseases like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and even lung cancer. Here are some key symptoms that may indicate your lungs are not in good condition:
1. Persistent Cough:
A cough that lasts more than three weeks, especially without any other clear cause like a cold, could be a sign of lung trouble. Chronic coughing may suggest inflammation or infection in the airways, or more serious conditions such as tuberculosis or lung cancer…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>
2. Shortness of Breath:
Feeling breathless during normal activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, or talking, can be a sign that your lungs are not functioning properly. Healthy lungs provide oxygen efficiently; difficulty breathing means your lungs may be struggling.
3. Chest Pain or Tightness:
Discomfort or pain in the chest when you breathe deeply, cough, or laugh could indicate issues like pleurisy (inflammation of the lung lining), infection, or even a blood clot in the lungs (pulmonary embolism). It is a symptom that should never be ignored.
A high-pitched sound when you breathe, known as wheezing, can point to airway obstruction. This is commonly seen in asthma and other chronic lung diseases and may indicate inflammation or mucus build-up in the lungs.
5. Fatigue and Weakness:
If your lungs aren’t delivering enough oxygen, your entire body suffers. You may feel constantly tired or find it hard to concentrate or perform everyday tasks, which could signal reduced lung capacity.
6. Frequent Respiratory Infections:
Recurring bronchitis, pneumonia, or even frequent colds that go straight to your chest may mean your lungs are not strong enough to fight off infections.
In conclusion, your lungs are essential for life, and any persistent or unusual symptoms related to breathing should be taken seriously. Regular checkups, avoiding smoking, staying physically active, and breathing clean air are some ways to keep your lungs healthy and functioning properly. Don’t wait for the symptoms to get worse—early action can save your life.
Death during sleep can be shocking and tragic, especially when it involves someone who seemed healthy. While it often feels sudden and mysterious, there are medical explanations behind such deaths. Understanding these causes can help us recognize warning signs and possibly prevent silent tragedies.
1. Cardiac Arrest: One of the most common reasons people die in their sleep is sudden cardiac arrest. This occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating due to electrical disturbances. People with undiagnosed heart conditions, high blood pressure, or a history of heart disease are at greater risk. The quiet of sleep masks the symptoms, and without immediate help, survival is rare…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>
2. Sleep Apnea: Obstructive sleep apnea is a serious disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. If untreated, it can lead to low oxygen levels, high blood pressure, heart strain, and even sudden death. Many people don’t know they have it.
3.Stroke: A stroke can strike during sleep when blood flow to the brain is suddenly blocked or a vessel bursts. High blood pressure, smoking, and high cholesterol increase the risk. Some victims never wake up. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
4. Respiratory Failure: People with severe asthma, COPD, or other lung diseases can experience breathing complications during sleep that lead to death if not managed properly.
Regular health check-ups, managing chronic conditions, and paying attention to sleep-related symptoms like loud snoring or gasping can make a big difference.
Uterine cancer, particularly endometrial cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the uterus. While there is no guaranteed way to completely eliminate the risk, certain lifestyle changes and precautions can help reduce the chances of developing this condition. Here are four key things to avoid to reduce your risk:
1. Obesity: Being overweight is a significant risk factor for uterine cancer, as excess fat can lead to higher estrogen levels in the body, which in turn can promote the growth of abnormal cells in the uterus. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can significantly reduce this risk.
2. Uncontrolled Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Hormone therapy, especially estrogen-only treatment without progesterone, can increase the risk of uterine cancer. If you’re considering hormone therapy for menopause symptoms, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider and ensure you’re on the safest and most appropriate treatment plan…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>
3. Poor Diet: A diet high in processed foods, unhealthy fats, and low in fiber may increase your risk of uterine cancer. Consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help support your overall health and reduce cancer risk. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
4. Lack of Physical Activity: Leading a sedentary lifestyle can contribute to obesity and increase the likelihood of hormonal imbalances, both of which raise uterine cancer risks. Regular physical activity helps keep the body in balance, reducing both obesity and potential hormone-related risks.
By avoiding these risk factors and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you can take proactive steps in reducing the likelihood of uterine cancer. However, it’s crucial to remember that regular check-ups and being aware of your family history can also aid in early detection, which is vital for better outcomes.