Heart disease in women often looks nothing like the dramatic, chest-clutching scenes portrayed on screen. In reality, symptoms are quieter, subtler and far easier to dismiss, especially during and after menopause. To understand why women face a unique risk of silent heart attacks, we spoke with Dr Anusha A Rao, Consultant, Cardiology, Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, who says the danger lies in symptoms that blend seamlessly with everyday gastric issues and hormonal changes.

‘Women think they’re protected but that changes with menopause’

For years, women assume that heart disease is something they’ll deal with “later in life.” Dr. Rao explains why.

“During the reproductive years, oestrogen does offer natural protection. But once menopause begins or the uterus is removed, those hormone

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