Is Smoking Increasing the Risk of Heart Attack in Young Women?

Heart disease was earlier associated with old people, which has now become a significant concern of health for women of all ages. One of the factors responsible for the rise of heart attacks is smoking; while smoking is a common cause of multiple health factors, the impact on young women is particularly concerning.

After a lot of studies and research, it has come to report that young women smokers, especially those under 50 years old, have higher chances of facing heart attacks in comparison to men. However, women are not very aware of the specific risks associated with smoking and heart disease. Smoking increases the risk of STEMI, a type of heart attack caused by a complete blockage of one of the main coronary arteries, in both men and women. You can consult Saroj Super Speciality Hospital, one of the best heart specialist hospitals in Delhi. 

Why Women Are at Higher Risk 

Hormonal Factors:

Female who are into smoking have suppressed estrogen, a hormone that protects against atherosclerosis. This may cause plaque to accumulate in the arteries, raising the risk of a heart attack.

Artery Size:

Compared to men, women often have coronary arteries that are narrower. Women are more at risk for artery constriction due to the increased degree of chronic inflammation brought on by smoking.

Vascular Conditions:

Vasospasm, vasculitis, and spontaneous coronary artery dissection are conditions that are more common in female STEMI patients and can be made worse by smoking. 

What effects does smoking have on blood vessels and the heart? 

• Rise in blood pressure 

• Long-term rise in heart rate 

• Reduces blood flow  

• Reduces the amount of oxygen  

• Raises risk for blood clots 

• Harms blood vessels 

• Improper blood flow to the brain 

Smoking has been associated with sadness and stress, both of which can cause persistent or sporadic chest pain, pressure, or discomfort.

The Unique Risks for Young Women 

Pregnancy:

During the pregnancy period a lot of hormonal changes may result in raising blood pressure and along with risk of clotting, which makes smoking even riskier.

Birth Control:

There are certain birth control pills, specially the one that include estrogen, gives higher risk of heart disease when combined with smoking.

Menopause:

Smoking is sure to cause hormonal changes that occur during the period menopause that worsen by raising the risk factor of cardiovascular disease.

Poor Diet and lack of exercise:

It’s possible that a lot of young ladies consume poor diets heavy in processed foods, saturated fats, and salt, all of which might aggravate heart disease. Cardiovascular health can be further compromised by smoking, and sedentary lifestyles can raise the risk of heart disease.

How to Quit Smoking? 

Support from the Trusted:

One can join a support group that helps with therapies and medicines or can also consider using nicotine replacement therapy. Also consider taking help from your near and dear ones

Setting a Goal:

Choose a specific date or consider taking a fixed time to get a push of motivation to work on it. Deciding a quitting date can help to plan and overcome challenges.

Physical Activity:

It is important to go for regular physical activities that can help reduce cravings and improve overall health. 

Healthy Diet:

A balanced diet will support your quitting efforts and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Professional Help:

consult with a physician or a smoking cessation expert if you’re having trouble quitting. 

Products that substitute nicotine may occasionally be able to assist in quitting smoking. Talk with experts from hospitals in Pitampura before using these products if you are pregnant or nursing or have a health condition. Here are a few products that substitute nicotine: 

Nicotine chewing gum:

It is a chewing gum available which lessens the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal by releasing a minor amount of nicotine. 

Nicotine patch:

A nicotine patch which is applied once daily to the upper body to help lessen the urge to smoke. 

Nicotine inhaler or nose spray:

This medication helps lessen the symptoms of withdrawal by releasing minor dosages of nicotine.  

Consulting heart specialist hospital in Delhi providing proper care and remedies to support a balanced lifestyle while leaving unhealthy habits will always be a good choice to made. By understanding the risks and taking proactive steps to quit smoking, young women can significantly reduce their risk of heart attack and improve their long-term health.