A silent health condition is affecting millions of American women, putting them at risk of strokes and heart attacks. Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) causes a narrowing of the arteries, making it harder for blood to flow through the body.
At least 10 million Americans have PVD, but researchers warn that it may be more prevalent than reported, especially in women. Women are often misdiagnosed or overlooked due to underrecognition and understudy of the condition. This leads to longer wait times for diagnosis and a higher risk of severe complications.
Women with PVD are more likely to experience symptoms such as pain while walking, muscle weakness, and hair loss. However, they may also be less aware of subtle signs like pain in their legs or numbness in their toes. Smokers, those with high blood pressure, diabetes, or obesity are at a higher risk for developing the condition.
A recent study found that women are more likely to experience no symptoms or dismissed symptoms, leading to further progression of the disease and increased risk of deadly complications like stroke. Women with specific conditions like aortopathy and fibromuscular dysplasia also face unique challenges in diagnosis and treatment.
The American Heart Association is calling for increased research on PVD in women, including more women in clinical trials and tailored prevention and treatment strategies. Dr. Esther SH Kim from the Center for Women’s Cardiovascular Health emphasizes that disparities in prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and care hinder equitable outcomes for women with PVD.
One in three patients with PAD will die within five years of diagnosis, and one in five will suffer a heart attack or stroke. The American Heart Association is urging healthcare providers to take a closer look at vascular diseases affecting blood vessels outside the heart to improve treatment strategies for this often-overlooked condition.
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14482163/millions-living-hidden-blood-condition-sudden-heart-attacks.html