I AM YOU - Episode 45 - The Stroke You Never Saw Coming: Why Women Can’t Wait to Be Heard

I AM YOU is hosted by Nitza I. Alvarez, MD, FACC — board-certified cardiologist, Women’s Heart Specialist, and bestselling author. Every episode gives women the knowledge and confidence to become the CEO of their own health.

Part 2 — Beyond the Story: The Science Every Woman Must Know

Last week we met Elena — a young woman whose stroke was nearly dismissed as stress.

Today, Dr. Alvarez explains why stroke happens, how hormones and menopause change brain blood flow, and why women face higher risk — yet often get misdiagnosed.

In the U.S., 60% of stroke deaths occur in women. Most research? Done on men.  

That must change.

The Myths That Put Women in Danger

Dr. Alvarez exposes the myths that delay diagnosis:

• “It only happens to the elderly”
• “If symptoms disappear, it’s nothing”
• “Hormones don’t affect stroke risk”

Up to 80% of strokes are preventable with the right evaluation — but only if women know what to ask for.

Essential Tests to Request

Once a stroke is confirmed, women must ask: Why did it happen?

The episode breaks down the minimum evaluation every woman deserves:

• Transesophageal Echo (TEE)
• Rhythm monitoring or loop recorder
• CT/MR angiogram — head & neck
• Hormone & inflammation screening

Because “unknown” should never mean “unsolved.”  

How to Protect Your Future Self

Dr. Alvarez shares 5 practical strategies to protect the brain and heart — through movement, nutrition, sleep, hormone awareness, and preventive health checks.

True prevention is power. And it starts when you become the CEO of your own health.

Listen. Share. Advocate.

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