Karen Long, a 67-year-old from York, was alarmed by a persistent pressure in her chest that plagued her during walks home from her grocery warehouse job. This discomfort, often mistaken for mere fatigue, is a common symptom of heart disease among women. Unlike men, women frequently report subtler signs like shortness of breath, jaw pain, and fatigue rather than intense chest pain, highlighting a stark difference in how heart disease manifests between genders.
Recognising the seriousness of her symptoms, Karen consulted her family physician, who promptly referred her to WellSpan Cardiology. There, interventional cardiologist Dr. Rhian Davies, renowned for her expertise in women’s heart health, took charge of her case. Under Dr. Davies’ guidance, Karen underwent several tests, leading to the discovery of multiple severe arterial blockages, two of which were completely occluded.
Faced with the option of open-heart surgery, which she feared would be too overwhelming based on her family history, Karen discussed alternatives with Dr. Davies. Opting for stents instead, Karen became part of a tailored treatment plan involving three procedures over five months, culminating in the placement of eight stents to restore blood flow. Dr. Davies performed an atherectomy, a procedure often likened to a “Roto-rooter” for arteries, to remove stubborn calcified blockages.
With a new regimen including cholesterol medication and dietary advice from dietitian Jake Jenkins, Karen transformed her eating habits, incorporating healthier protein sources. Feeling revitalised and euphoric, she declared, “My blood is pumping, and I just feel more alive,” illustrating the profound impact of her treatment.
Heart disease, the leading cause of death for both genders in the U.S., uniquely affects women, who may be at increased risk due to factors like hormonal influences and emotional distress. Dr. Davies emphasises the importance of comprehensive attention to women’s health, urging healthcare providers to listen closely for subtle changes in their patients’ experiences, like decreased stamina in daily activities.
While treatment modalities can be similar for men and women, Dr. Davies notes the necessity for perhaps differing approaches to cardiovascular procedures due to variations in heart anatomy. This underscores the complexity of treating women with heart disease, necessitating individualised care to optimise outcomes.
Karen urges women to advocate for their health, reminding them to voice their concerns with honesty and clarity, saying, “You have got to tell the doctor how it is.” Her heartfelt experience serves as a testament to the life-saving importance of listening to one’s body and seeking timely medical advice.
Karen Long faced chest pressure indicative of heart disease, demonstrating how women often experience symptoms differently from men. After consultation and tests at WellSpan, she discovered multiple artery blockages. Opting for stents over surgery, Karen successfully improved her heart health with tailored treatment. Dr. Rhian Davies stresses the need for women to advocate for their health and communicate openly with healthcare providers to ensure proper diagnosis and care.
Karen’s journey through heart disease exemplifies the critical need for women to understand their unique symptoms and seek medical attention when necessary. By advocating for oneself and being forthright with healthcare providers, women can navigate their health challenges more effectively. Dr. Davies’ approach highlights the importance of tailored care, reflecting a growing awareness of the distinct nuances in women’s heart health that demand attention and action.
Original Source: www.wellspan.org
