Guest Author - Sharon Bejin

In an ideal world, women’s blood vessels would be wider and plaque-free, but unfortunately that is not always the case. Inside the female body are narrow vessels that carry blood throughout the body. The arteries are lined with endothelial cells that release molecules that prevent blood clots and heart attacks. The endothelial cells also secrete pro-clotting proteins that prevent bleeding and strokes. The rate of heart attacks and strokes increase if the endothelial lining is damaged.

Because women's blood vessels are narrower than men’s, they are at greater risk of arteriosclerosis. Smoking, stress, and poor diet can damage the walls of the blood vessels. Scar tissue develops and become bumps inside the vessel walls, decreasing the blood flow in arteries. The decrease in blood flow means a decrease of oxygen and nutrients to the tissue. Any deprivation of oxygen or nutrients may lead to ulceration on the tissue which puts women at a greater risk for stroke and hemorrhage.

Some factors that put women at greater risk of heart disease include:

Smoking
High LDL (bad) cholesterol with a number higher than 130
Low HDL (good) cholesterol with a number lower than 46
High blood pressure
Periodontal disease
Diabetes
Clinical depression
Inactivity
Overweight

Smoking increases women’s risk of cardiovascular disease. Smokers are four times more likely to have coronary heart disease. After menopause, the levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol rise. Any number above 130 puts women at higher risk for arteriosclerosis. Women who have low HDL levels below 46 are at greater risk for heart disease than men.

High blood pressure should be less than 130/85. About one fifth of women in their mid forties to mid sixties have high blood pressure, which increases the risk of heart disease in women.

Periodontal disease and the connection with heart disease or stroke are becoming more evident. When the gums become inflamed, any bacteria that flow into the bloodstream can attach to the artery walls and put women at a greater risk for heart disease and stroke. Better brushing, flossing, and use of anti-bacterial mouthwash will help to cut down on inflammation in the gum area.

During bouts of depression, the body releases chemicals which can put women at greater risk of heart disease due to the narrowing of blood vessels. Women who suspect they are suffering from depression should consult their physician or psychologist to discuss possible treatments.

Inactivity and being overweight go hand in hand. Exercising can help shed extra pounds and improve blood flow throughout the body and cut down the risk of heart disease. Weight loss will also decrease the chance of diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.

There are many things women can do to cut down their risk of arteriosclerosis. Making healthy changes in diet and lifestyle can make a difference in whether the blood vessels accumulate fatty deposits. Healthy changes will make a difference in the well-being of women’s lives, increasing their longevity in life.