It’s a scary thought, but heart attacks do happen to women. According to the American Heart Association, more than 600,000 people experience a heart attack every year in the United States, and about 20 percent of them are women. This happens because many women think they’re not at risk because heart disease is thought of as a man’s disease, and there are some signs that occur more often in women than men that are signs of heart attack that are easily ignored or overlooked.
Is there pain?
While chest pain is the most common symptom of a heart attack, it doesn’t always present itself that way—especially in women. According to the American Heart Association, other symptoms can include pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, or back; shortness of breath; cold sweats; lightheadedness or dizziness; and nausea or vomiting.
Is there shortness of breath?
During a heart attack, your heart may not be able to pump enough blood to meet your body’s needs. This can cause chest pain and shortness of breath. If you have these symptoms, don’t wait more than five minutes to call for help. The best way to make sure it’s not a false alarm is by having someone else check your pulse. If the rate is irregular or if there are no pulses at all, then you should call 911 immediately.
Are you worried something is wrong?
According to the American Heart Association, about one in every three women who have a heart attack dies. That’s because we often don’t realize something is wrong until it’s too late. Pay attention to these subtle signs and symptoms of a heart attack so you can get help as soon as possible.
Are you at risk?
Women are more likely than men to experience atypical symptoms during a heart attack, which can make it more difficult to identify that something is wrong. If you experience any of the following symptoms, don’t hesitate to call 9-1-1 or seek medical attention