What is one of the side effects of taking Estrogen therapy regarding vascular health?

• A. Increased risk of osteoporosis
• B. Heart attack
• C. Low calcium levels
• D. Kidney stones

Answer: (B)

Estrogen therapy has been shown to influence vascular health, and one of the well-documented side effects is the increased risk of heart attacks. This can be attributed to how estrogen affects blood vessel function and coagulation factors. While estrogen can have protective effects on the cardiovascular system, particularly in premenopausal women, its use in hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or other therapeutic settings in postmenopausal women may heighten the risk of thromboembolic events, which can lead to heart attacks.

Understanding this side effect is crucial, especially for those considering or currently on estrogen therapy, as it emphasizes the importance of weighing the benefits against potential cardiovascular risks. When discussing the implications of HRT with patients, healthcare providers often focus on cardiovascular health, making it essential to monitor any risk factors associated with heart disease in patients undergoing estrogen therapy.