Heart Disease in Women: The Silent Killer No One Talks About

In this powerful episode, interventional cardiologist Associate Professor Tom Ford joins us to uncover the real truth about women’s heart health, especially during perimenopause and menopause. Learn why heart disease is the #1 killer of women, how hormones impact cholesterol and palpitations, and what red flags to never ignore.We break down:The misunderstood symptoms of heart attacks in womenThe link between perimenopause, high cholesterol, and palpitationsWhether HRT is heart-healthy or harmfulHow stress, exercise, alcohol, and even supplements affect your heartTests that can save your life: CT calcium scores, stress echos & moreWhether you’re managing high blood pressure, curious about heart palpitations, or navigating midlife health decisions, this episode is essential listening.Assoc. Professor Ford also shares his top 3 tips for a healthier heart, the surprising signs of cardiac issues in women, and what tests to request from your GP—even if your results look normal.This episode is brought to you by RUKSAK - helping you turn every walk into a workout with weighted vests, backpacks and accessories.Visit https://rebrand.ly/ruksak_spotify and use the code "SHAUNA15" for 15% off all purchases.For more from Associate Professor Tom Ford:Visit the Central Heart website. Central Coast locals can contact (02) 4311 7137 for appointment enquiries.Follow Dr Shauna and the podcast on social:Podcast Website: ⁠www.allaboutyoupod.com⁠.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allaboutyou_withdrshaunawatts https://www.instagram.com/drshaunawattsgpLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauna-watts-a903a5247Disclaimer: This podcast and any information, advice, opinions or statements within it do not constitute medical, health care or other professional advice. Information is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only.00:00:00 – Intro: Heart Health & Menopause00:00:28 – Why Women Miss Heart Disease Signs00:01:08 – Heart Disease Myths & Misdiagnosis00:02:28 – Female Heart Attack Symptoms00:04:10 – Angina, Heart Attacks & Blood Pressure00:09:00 – Heart Rate Changes After 4000:15:10 – Hormone Therapy & Heart Risk00:17:43 – Essential Heart Health Tests00:20:11 – CT Scans, Calcium Scores & Cholesterol00:27:23 – Rucking & Smart Exercise for Heart Health00:29:29 – Lifestyle Changes That Protect Your Heart00:35:15 – Alcohol, Stress & Emotional Triggers00:39:52 – Medications, Drugs & Hidden Heart Risks00:43:03 – When to Get a Second Opinion00:43:50 – Female-Specific Heart Conditions00:46:32 – Heart Failure & Menopause00:48:51 – Best Exercise & Nutrition for the Heart00:55:09 – Genetic & Hormonal Risk Factors00:57:22 – Reflections & Key Takeaways00:58:51 – Disclaimerheart disease in womenperimenopause and heart healthcholesterol after 40palpitations menopauseHRT and heart safetysilent heart attack symptomshow menopause affects heart healthearly signs of heart disease in womenis HRT safe for the heart?why does cholesterol rise after 40?heart tests women should ask forperimenopause symptoms heart palpitationsmidlife women's healthcardiologist interviewmenopause podcastholistic heart healthCT calcium score explained