You’ve likely seen the dramatic Hollywood movie scenes where a man clutches his chest in pain and falls to the floor while having a heart attack. However real life isn’t like the movies and women oftentimes don’t even feel that debilitating chest pressure. This means many women will dismiss what they’re feeling as the flu, acid reflux, or just something that will pass on its own. However, this dismissal can quickly turn deadly because those women usually don’t get the medical help they need until it’s too late. The CDC reports that 1 in 5 women who have a heart attack in the United States will die from it, and we want to do our part to lower that statistic. So today, we’re sharing 5 heart attack symptoms women commonly experience, so you’ll know to call 911 if you or a loved one has a subtle heart attack.
Sudden Fatigue
Most women these days are busy 24/7. Caring for their families, working, traveling, and other daily tasks can leave women feeling exhausted and rundown more often than not. Most times, this is nothing to worry about. However, if you become unusually tired while doing your typical routine or can’t sleep well even though you’re exhausted– you may need to seek help. Even if you aren’t currently having a heart attack, this means you could be fast approaching one or some other serious heart condition.
Ongoing Chest Discomfort
A lot of women never feel any chest pain while having a heart attack. Still, other sensations can alert you to an issue. Pay close attention to any squeezing, pressure, fullness, pain, or discomfort in your chest. If it goes away and comes back a few minutes later, you’re probably having a heart attack.
Shortness of Breath
This isn’t an uncommon occurrence as people start to age. As we get older, most people have less time and energy to exercise, so it’s only natural to start gaining some weight. Unfortunately, this additional weight can contribute to shortness of breath or even a heart attack.
Unusual Sweating
Hot flashes keep many women feeling sweaty as they go through menopause. So many women in their 40s and 50s assume that any sudden or excessive sweating is just a part of their biological process. But if you’re sweating and feel cold and clammy, you may be having a heart attack.
Neck, Jaw, and Back Pain
When something is wrong, your body will try to send signals to you– so pay attention. If you feel pain in your neck, jaw, or back you should take it seriously because your body may be telling you that you have an untreated heart condition. If you have sudden pain and haven’t recently done anything to strain the area, you should seek medical help.
Men also experience this pain but it may feel more subtle for women. Pain may also occur in either arm, whereas men generally notice it in their left.
Brookhaven Heart Care in New York
Some heart attacks are sudden while others happen slowly. Listen to your body and familiarize yourself with symptoms women commonly experience with this heart problem. Talk to your Brookhaven Heart cardiologist today to discuss any concerns you have about your heart health and identify preventive measures you can take in your daily life. Our team of doctors have cutting-edge technology, the latest research, top-tier resources, and endless support to administer the highest quality of care to patients. We provide consultations, diagnostics, and treatments to help our patients live full lives with any heart condition. If you live in Patchogue, New Hyde Park, or Hicksville contact us for a consultation or talk to your primary care physician about giving you a referral.
