Heart conditions aren't exclusive to older adults—people in their 40s can experience them too. Here, three women share their personal encounters with heart issues, offering valuable insights backed by cardiology expertise.
Tamara (45): "For five years, I've had monthly palpitations that feel like my heart is trying to jump out of my chest. They subside after about five minutes of lying down and doing breathing exercises. An ECG at the hospital revealed nothing, so I requested a referral to a specialist heart clinic from my GP. An ultrasound is scheduled within a week to check for any underlying issues."
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Wanda (39): "Two years ago, doctors discovered a structural defect in my heart valve causing a murmur. I was initially shocked, but I trust my cardiologist completely and attend regular check-ups. Prior to this diagnosis, elevated cholesterol had prompted me to adopt a healthier diet, quit smoking, and increase exercise. The murmur hasn't impacted my daily life yet, as there are no symptoms."
Claudia (44): "Two years ago at work, I suddenly felt hoarse, dizzy, nauseous, sweaty, with a pinching sensation in my right arm. It lasted about five minutes and recurred three more times. Concerned, I visited my doctor, but initial tests were inconclusive. Soon after, I suffered a more severe heart attack. I recovered well, but never let a doctor dismiss your concerns."
… you've experienced a major life trauma. Angela Maas, professor of cardiology, author of Heart for Women, explains: "Women are nine times more likely than men to develop broken heart syndrome—a heart attack triggered by events like losing a loved one."
… you're dealing with chronic stress, such as a demanding job or prolonged divorce. Maas notes: "This can cause coronary artery spasms, once thought rare. Over the past five years, our research has advanced significantly, helping us intervene sooner."
… you had high blood pressure during pregnancy from preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome. Maas adds: "These women face higher heart risks, as do those with frequent migraines in their teens/twenties or a family history of heart attacks before age 65."
… you've had breast cancer, as 15% of patients suffer heart damage, per Maas. "It can occur during treatment or years later, often misattributed to age or chemo, delaying diagnosis and risking lives."
… sudden extreme fatigue strikes. Maas warns: "This often signals an impending heart attack, commonly after intense stress like work reorganizations or family issues. Don't wait—contact your doctor immediately."
Source: Santé June 2019, text by Fleur Baxmeier
