Heart Care for Women

Specialized care for the unique cardiology needs of women.



Understanding Heart Disease in Women

Ninety percent of women have one or more risk factors of heart disease. When it comes to women’s heart health, prevention is key. Although heart disease is common in women, most cardiovascular conditions can be prevented. At Stamford Health we take a women-centered approach to treating heart disease. Here are a few key things to know about heart disease in women:

The most common heart attack symptom for women and men is chest pain. But women may experience other less obvious symptoms like shortness of breath, discomfort in the arms, dizziness, upset stomach, nausea/vomiting, back or jaw pain, sweating, or unusual fatigue.

Seeking care if you’re experiencing any unusual symptoms is crucial. If you feel differently than you have before or a routine activity becomes a struggle, reach out to a health care provider right away.

Lifestyle changes can help to reduce your overall risk of developing heart disease. Some recommended changes include: becoming more active, following a healthy diet, and quitting smoking.


Expert Heart Health Care For Women

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TEAM APPROACH TO EXPERT CARE

Stamford Health offers the most comprehensive heart and vascular program in Fairfield County. Our cardiologists will work collaboratively with primary care providers, maternal-fetal medicine doctors, and more, to provide personalized care.
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CONVENIENTLY LOCATED IN STAMFORD

All of our cardiologists who specialize in women’s heart care are located at our Medical Office Building, adjacent to Stamford Hospital.
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SUPPORT DURING PREGNANCY

Your pregnancy should be a joyous time, even if you have complications from a heart condition. Our expert cardiologists provide comprehensive care for patients with pregnancy related cardiovascular problems and patients with congenital heart disease.

Women’s Risk Factors For Heart Disease

FAMILY HISTORY OF HEART DISEASE

Understand your family history of heart disease or consider talking to a genetic counselor to find out more.

HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

Talk with your doctor about managing hypertension as uncontrolled blood pressure can lead to heart disease.

HIGH LDL CHOLESTEROL

Make sure to visit your primary care provider to check your cholesterol levels each year.

SMOKING

If you need help quitting, contact Stamford Health’s Smoking Cessation Program.

DIABETES

Ask your primary care provider about your risk of developing diabetes, which can increase your risk of heart disease.

OBESITY

Exercising regularly and eating nutritious foods can help with weight management, which lowers the risk of heart issues.

FAMILY HISTORY OF HEART DISEASE

Understand your family history of heart disease or consider talking to a genetic counselor to find out more.

HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

Talk with your doctor about managing hypertension as uncontrolled blood pressure can lead to heart disease.

HIGH LDL CHOLESTEROL

Make sure to visit your primary care provider to check your cholesterol levels each year.

SMOKING

If you need help quitting, contact Stamford Health’s Smoking Cessation Program.

DIABETES

Ask your primary care provider about your risk of developing diabetes, which can increase your risk of heart disease.

OBESITY

Exercising regularly and eating nutritious foods can help with weight management, which lowers the risk of heart issues.

Our Approach To Diagnosing & Treating Heart Disease In Women

Trust the cardiology team at the Heart and Vascular Institute to get a detailed and accurate diagnosis of your heart and vascular condition with advanced and thorough testing.

  • Cardiac MRIs allow the cardiac team to diagnose an even wider array of heart conditions. They also help with the earlier detection of different heart diseases.
  • Your doctor may also suggest blood tests, an EKG, stress test, or cardiac catheterization.
  • Aside from typical heart procedures like stents or pacemakers, we may suggest lifestyle programs or nutritional counseling to help reduce risk factors.

CardiacTesting Diagnostics
We offer an array of cardiac diagnostic testing procedures to give you accurate results and to help us come up with a treatment plan together.

Meet Our Doctors

Evelyn J Cusack
Cardiovascular Disease

(203) 348-7410

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Sandhya  Dhruvakumar
Cardiovascular Disease, Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology

(203) 276-2321

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Anna I Koulova
Cardiovascular Disease

(203) 348-7410

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Mina  Owlia
Cardiovascular Disease

(203) 348-7410

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Women’s Heart Health FAQs

  • WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT WOMEN’S HEART CARE AT STAMFORD HEALTH?
    At Stamford Health, our Women's Heart Health program offers specialized care and services tailored to address the distinct cardiology needs of women. We understand that women may experience heart conditions differently, and our dedicated team is here to provide personalized care and support. Our approach includes in-depth diagnostics, gender-specific risk assessment, and treatment plans designed with a focus on women's heart health.
  • HOW IS PREGNANCY SUPPORTED FOR WOMEN WITH HEART CONDITIONS?
    Pregnancy can be a joyful time, even for women with heart conditions. Our specialists work closely with your care team to ensure a smooth and healthy delivery for both you and your baby. Your well-being is our top priority. We offer personalized care, risk assessments, and advanced monitoring throughout your pregnancy to safeguard your health and the health of your baby.
  • APART FROM MEDICAL PROCEDURES, ARE THERE LIFESTYLE PROGRAMS OR COUNSELING OPTIONS AVAILABLE FOR WOMEN WITH HEART CONDITIONS?
    Yes, our approach to managing heart disease extends beyond medical procedures. We offer holistic care that may include lifestyle programs and nutritional counseling to help you lead a heart-healthy life. Our multidisciplinary team will provide guidance on dietary choices, exercise, stress management, and emotional support tailored to your specific needs.
  • WHAT CARDIAC DIAGNOSTIC TESTING PROCEDRUES ARE OFFERED AT STAMFORD HEALTH?
    Stamford Health provides a wide range of cardiac diagnostic testing procedures to ensure the most accurate and comprehensive assessment of your heart health. These tests contribute to personalized treatment plans that address your unique needs and concerns. Our diagnostic capabilities include advanced imaging, stress tests, electrocardiograms, and more, allowing us to create a precise and effective care plan tailored to you.



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