Heart Attack Symptoms In Women

Women are more likely than men to survive their first cardiac arrest. It may be that the symptoms are different between men and women. Women are more likely than men to experience a “silent heart attack” or show unusual symptoms.

Female biology also creates unique heart attack risk factors, since some diseases, like polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), that increase the risk are not present in men’s biology.

Heart attack symptoms in women

Chest pain is the most common symptom of a heart attack.

Many people believe that a heart attack will occur suddenly. Women may experience heart attack symptoms several weeks in advance, according to research.

In 2003, a study of 515 women with a history of heart attacks reported that 80 percent had at least one symptom for at least four weeks prior to their heart attack.

The symptoms may be intermittent or constant, and may interfere with sleep.

Women who experience any of these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention, since heart attacks are fatal regardless of how mild or severe they may be.

Eight symptoms that may indicate a heart attack include:

1. Chest pain

Chest pain or discomfort is the most common heart attack symptom in men and women.

You can describe it as:

• Tightness
• Pressure
• Squeezing
• Aching

Women can still suffer a heart attack without any chest pain.

In the study of 2003, 29.7 percent reported chest discomfort during the weeks leading up to the heart attack. Also, 57 per cent of women experienced chest pain at the time of their heart attack.

2. Extreme or unusual fatigue

In the weeks preceding a heart attack, unusual fatigue is commonly reported. Fatigue can also be experienced before an event.

Even simple exercises that don’t require much effort can cause exhaustion.

3. Weakness

A female heart attack is often accompanied by a feeling of weakness or shakiness.

This weakness or shaking can be accompanied by

• anxiety
• dizziness
• fainting
• Feeling lightheaded

4. Shortness of breath

Heart problems can be indicated by shortness of breath, or heavy breathing, without exertion. This is especially true when fatigue or chest discomfort are present.

Symptoms of shortness of breath can be felt by some women when lying down. However, the symptoms will subside when they sit up.

5. Sweating

Excessive perspiration without a cause is another common symptom of heart attacks in women.

Heart problems can be indicated by feeling cold and clammy.

6. Upper body pain

It is not specific and can’t be linked to any particular muscle or upper body joint.

The following areas can be affected:

• Neck
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• Upper back or either arm

Pain can begin in one place and spread gradually to other areas, or it can come on suddenly.

7. Sleep disturbances

Difficulty getting to sleep and unusual waking may be issues before a heart attack.

Nearly half of the women who participated in the 2003 study had sleep problems in the weeks leading up to their heart attacks.

The following disturbances can occur:

• Sleeping problems
• Unusual waking up in the middle of the night
• Feeling tired even after getting enough sleep

8. Stomach problems

Some women feel pressure or pain in their stomachs before they have a heart attack.

Other digestive problems associated with a heart attack include:

• Indigestion
• nausea
• vomiting

Heart attack post-menopause

After menopause, the risk of heart attacks increases because of the fall in estrogen.

Heart attack symptoms after menopause include:

• Pain or discomfort in the back, arms, neck, jaw or stomach
• Heartbeats that are rapid or irregular
• severe chest pain
• Sweating without Activity

Risk factors

Women are at risk of a heart attack for the following reasons:

• Age Those over 55 are at a greater risk of a heart attack. It may be due to hormones providing some protective against heart diseases prior to menopause.
• Family History: People with a male or female relative that has suffered a heart attack by age 55, or 65, are at an increased risk.
• Status: Some markers, like high cholesterol, increase the risk of heart attacks in both men and women.
• Medical conditions: Those with conditions, including diabetes, Endometriosis or PCOS.
• Lifestyle Choices: Smoking, stimulant drugs such as cocaine or amphetamines or a sedentary life style, along with high levels of Stress, will increase your risk of a heart attack.

When should you see a doctor

The British Heart Foundation advises that all women aged over 40 should have regular check-ups with their doctors. It is important to identify any risk factors as early as possible so they can be treated. Early intervention can reduce the risk of a cardiac incident.

If you notice any of the warning signs, like the ones below, then it is important to see a physician immediately.

• Unusual fatigue
• Shortness of Breath
• Upper body pain

A doctor will note symptoms, check survey conducted in 2012 by Trusted Source, only 65 percent of women will call 911 if they suspect they are having a cardiac event.

The emergency treatment can save your life. If you notice any of the symptoms below, call an ambulance right away. This is especially important if they persist for more than 5 minutes.

• Chest pain or discomfort
• Pain in the upper part of the body including arms, shoulders, neck, back or jaw
• Having difficulty breathing
• dizziness
• Extreme weakness
• Heartburn
• nausea
• Heartbeats that are rapid or irregular
• Shortness of Breath
• Sweating
• Unexplained anxiety
• vomiting

Prevention

Tips for better heart health include:

• Regular health checks with your doctor.
• Taking steps to manage other health conditions, including high blood pressure, high Stop smoking, and avoid tobacco in all forms. Just 12 months after quitting smoking, heart disease risks are reduced by 50%.
• Avoiding illegal drugs such as stimulants like cocaine and amphetamines.
• Losing weight if overweight.
• Walking for 30 minutes every day is considered aerobic exercise.
• A balanced diet is recommended, as well as visiting a dietician for advice if needed.

Takeaway

Heart attacks are a potentially fatal medical condition that requires immediate treatment. Women often display different symptoms of heart attacks than men. Women also have more risk factors.

Women can reduce their heart attack risk by taking a number of steps. Awareness of heart attack symptoms, particularly in the weeks prior to the event, will also help improve outcomes and reduce complications.