Heart Disease Can Be Tricky in Women
February 18, 2026 | Member Submitted
Author: David Young, MD
Heart disease is the number one cause of death for American women. This is partly because women often have lesser-known heart attack symptoms, and because heart disease can affect a woman’s body differently, making it harder to recognize.
Not Your ‘Typical’ Heart Attack
Women don’t always have the telltale symptom of severe chest pain or pressure. Rather, they are more likely to feel jaw or neck pain. They may also experience the following:
- Shortness of breath
- Indigestion
- Nausea or vomiting
- Upper back pain
- Extreme fatigue
Because these symptoms are less obvious, women may dismiss them — even providers might mistake them for something else. Knowing the signs can be lifesaving.
Different Types of Heart Disease
Providers use the term heart disease as a catchall for many types of conditions affecting the heart. The most common is coronary heart disease (CHD). It affects both men and women. In CHD, plaque builds in the large arteries, which may lead to a heart attack.
Many women, though, tend to have a less commonly known condition called coronary microvascular disease (CMD), which affects the tiny arteries of the heart. CMD may develop because of changes in estrogen before menopause. Typical tests for CHD — like stress tests or angiography — may not always detect CMD, so additional evaluation may be needed.
Protect Your Heart
Everyday habits, like staying active, eating well, managing stress, and following your provider’s recommendations, can make a difference for your heart health.
Most importantly, know the potential signs of a heart attack and seek help immediately if you think you may be having a heart attack.
David Young, MD, is a board-certified cardiologist at Barton Health. The team at Barton Cardiology offers cardiac care at offices in South Lake Tahoe, Stateline, and Incline Village. Learn more at BartonHealth.org or by calling 530.543.5497. Join Dr. Young for a free webinar, “Heart Disease in Women,” on Thursday, February 12 from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.; details at BartonHealth.org/Lecture.
