Past Pregnancy Complications Linked to Increased Heart Disease Risk

Heart disease among women often presents in a more subtle manner that may be easily overlooked, making it particularly dangerous. Unlike the more dramatic symptoms associated with heart issues often seen in men, women may experience signs of heart disease that are frequently misattributed to stress, fatigue, or anxiety, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment.

Dr Sanjay Bhojraj, an interventional cardiologist with over 20 years of clinical experience, emphasizes the importance of acknowledging these early symptoms and addressing underlying conditions that can significantly increase a woman’s risk of cardiovascular disease. In a video shared on Instagram, he highlights the disparity in lifetime heart attack risk among women, stating, “Some women have less than a one percent chance of a heart attack in their lifetime. Others have nearly 20 percent. The scary part? Most don’t know which one they are.”

He underscores that heart disease remains the leading cause of death among women, often without their awareness. Many may be living with heart disease without recognising it, as symptoms develop gradually over time. Common early indicators include persistent fatigue, which might be dismissed as normal tiredness, and slight chest discomfort that could be attributed to stress.

Dr Bhojraj elaborates, “Because nothing feels wrong, right? You’re just tired. A little more winded than you used to be. Noticing that random chest tightness you blamed on stress or anxiety. Waking up at 3 am, heart racing. So you move on.”

The cardiologist notes that the risk of fatal heart disease in women is elevated in part because the symptoms can be understated or disregarded. Important markers like blood pressure or cholesterol levels that have been rising slowly over the years often go unnoticed.

Beyond these conventional health indicators, Dr Bhojraj also points out that a woman’s obstetric history plays a significant role in her heart health. Conditions such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, high blood pressure during pregnancy, or premature delivery are not merely temporary issues but can have lasting effects on cardiovascular health in later life. He explains, “If you had preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, high blood pressure during pregnancy, or delivered early…that counts. It’s a preview of your future risk.”

Recognising the importance of these risks is critical, as many heart issues can be effectively managed or even reversed if identified early. Dr Bhojraj advocates for women to pay close attention to any subtle changes in their health, as dismissing these signals can allow potentially serious conditions to escalate without appropriate medical intervention.

This information is shared to raise awareness about the complex relationship between pregnancy complications and heart health risk in women. It is essential for women to be proactive about their cardiovascular health, particularly if they have a history of pregnancy-related complications. Early intervention can significantly reduce long-term risks associated with heart disease.