A heart attack can happen to anyone, both men and women. It is important to know the symptoms so you can recognize them in yourself and others. Furthermore, it is essential to understand that the symptoms in women can differ from those in men! Here’s what women should watch out for.
Chest pain
The main symptoms to look for include sudden, persistent discomfort in the chest. The pain may feel like a squeezing sensation and can occur anywhere in the chest, not just on the left side. In addition to these clear and well-known symptoms, there are other recognized signals to be alert to, such as radiating pain to the arms and shortness of breath, or an unexplained feeling of anxiety. However, women often experience other complaints that are not on this list, and some of the most recognizable symptoms may even be completely absent!
Symptoms in women
Women are more likely to experience atypical symptoms during a heart attack, which increases their risk of misdiagnosis or delays in treatment. In men, the typical symptoms, such as pain or pressure in the chest, pain or discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach, shortness of breath, chills, sweating, and nausea, are more common. These symptoms may be less pronounced in women.
Women may also experience unexplained fatigue and nausea associated with a heart attack. Additionally, they often experience shortness of breath, but more frequently have pain in the upper abdomen, jaw, neck, or back instead of the typical chest pain.
Other symptoms
Radiating pain to the left shoulder or left arm, sweating, nausea and/or vomiting, pale or grayish skin, and difficulty breathing are also common in both genders. Because there are differences in the symptoms between men and women, it is important to understand what the symptoms are, so unnecessary fear and confusion can be avoided in emergency situations.
Moreover, it is important to know the symptoms of a heart attack so you can seek help more quickly. Prompt medical attention can be a matter of life and death, as the sooner someone having a heart attack receives treatment, the greater the chance of a good recovery. Delayed help can lead to permanent damage and even serious complications, such as heart failure or death.