Women often experience heart attack symptoms that are different than men. Many women may not even know that they have a heart attack. These symptoms are often mistaken for other health conditions. The result can be delayed treatment that can make the situation worse.
During a heart attack, the arteries that supply the heart with blood narrow. If the condition persists, the flow of blood to the heart can be cut off completely. This can lead to a decrease in survival rate.
In the United States, heart disease is the number one killer of women. Although women are less likely to have a heart attack than men, more women die from the disease today than in 1983. Fortunately, if you or a loved one is suffering from heart problems, it is possible to treat the condition and minimize the damage.
Chest pain is one of the most common signs of a heart attack. It may be intense or mild, and can happen when you are lying down, or during everyday activities. The pain can spread to the back, neck, and jaw.
Sudden shortness of breath is another sign. Often, a woman experiences a sudden decrease in her heart’s ability to pump blood. Some women experience this while they are resting or doing simple activities.
Some women may also have nausea, unexplained fatigue, or back or abdominal pain. Regardless of the symptoms, it is important to get checked.
One of the most difficult aspects of a heart attack is determining where the pain is located. Chest pain can travel to other areas, so it can be difficult to pinpoint.
