Tests, treatments for women

Some diagnostic tests for heart disease may not be as accurate in women as they are in men. Because women are less likely to have obvious blockages, exercise electrocardiograms (ECG) are less reliable in women. Exercise echocardiography or other tests may be better choices for identifying coronary artery disease (CAD) in women.

In the past, much of the research on CAD was conducted on men, and didn't examine the differences between men and women that could affect the diagnosis and treatment of women with heart disease. For example, women have different, and often more subtle heart attack symptoms than men, so they have been less likely to receive effective treatment.

To help you successfully overcome heart disease, we offer a full range of testing and treatment options that address your specific condition. Talk to your doctor about your specific situations and the applicable risk factors for heart disease to determine which tests may be right for you.