Did you know that heart disease is the number one cause of death for women?
February 2, 2026
Contributed by: Meera Kondapaneni, MD / Division Director of Heart and Vascular
Menopause and Heart Health: Early Warning Signs Women Should Never Ignore
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women. Many women don’t realize that their risk goes up after menopause. February is Heart Month, which makes it a great time to focus on heart health. MetroHealth offers heart care at more than 12 locations in Northeast Ohio, so getting care is easy and close to home.
“Women spend so much time taking care of others, but your heart deserves the same care and attention. Prioritizing your heart health isn’t selfish—it’s one of the best things you can do for the people who count on you. When women stay healthy, our families and communities grow stronger too.” – Meera Kondapaneni, MD
Protecting Women’s Hearts: Post‑Menopause Risks and Convenient Care Across Northeast Ohio
When estrogen levels drop after menopause, women lose some natural protection against heart disease. This can cause blood pressure, LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, and belly fat to rise. All of these raise the risk of heart problems.
Know the Symptoms — They Are Not Always the Same in Women
Women don’t always have the “classic” heart attack symptoms. While men may feel strong chest pain, women may feel:
- Jaw pain
- Nausea
- Unusual tiredness
- Pressure in the upper back or shoulders
Knowing these signs and acting fast can save your life.
Take Charge of What You Can Control
Some of the biggest risks for heart disease include:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Smoking
Regular check-ups after age 50 are very important. Try to keep your blood pressure under 120/80, stay active, and eat foods that support heart health—like fiber-rich foods, healthy fats (such as olive oil and nuts), and lean proteins.
Move for a Stronger Heart
Cardio exercise, even simple brisk walking, helps your heart get stronger and lowers your blood pressure. Aim for 30 minutes a day on most days of the week. Stretching and light strength exercises also help with flexibility and blood flow. Always talk to your MetroHealth Women’s Health Team provider to find the best plan for you.
Take Care of Your Emotional Health
Stress can raise blood pressure and cause inflammation in the body. Try to make time for activities that relax you, connect you with others, and calm your mind.
It’s never too late to make changes that help your heart. Even small steps—like quitting smoking, being more active, or improving your diet—can greatly lower your risk.
To talk with a Women’s Health Team provider about simple ways to protect your heart, schedule an appointment today. Call: 216-778-4444 or learn more at metrohealth.org/obgyn.
