“Cardiovascular disease can be deadly for anyone. But females face unique risks, largely due to differences in anatomy and hormones. They’re more likely to have other heart attack symptoms along with chest pain, and they have a higher chance of developing symptoms from heart failure. Heart-healthy lifestyle changes can help.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) affects women in unique ways. Sex-specific differences like anatomy, red blood cell count and hormones seem to impact a person’s risk factors, symptoms and other aspects of their cardiovascular health.

Researchers have found many sex-specific differences in the cardiovascular system. These complex differences, often at a microscopic level, can affect how females experience heart disease compared to males. A few examples include:

• Anatomy. Females have smaller blood vessels and heart chambers. The walls of their ventricles (pumping chambers) are also thinner.
• Blood count. Females have fewer red blood cells. As a result, they can’t take in or carry as much oxygen at any given time.
• Cardiovascular adaptations. Changes in altitude or body position (like quickly standing up after lying down) are more likely to affect females. These changes can lead to sudden drops in blood pressure.
• Hormones. Estrogen and progesterone levels are typically higher in females, while testosterone is higher in males. These hormones can impact many aspects of your heart health and overall health.”

Cleveland Clinic (Heart Disease in Women: Risk Factors, Symptoms & Prevention)