Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States, and according to the CDC, around 44 percent of American women are living with some form of it. The most common heart disease is coronary artery disease (CAD), which can lead to a heart attack. Despite what many people think, heart attacks don't always happen suddenly or with obvious symptoms.
In fact, they can be much more subtle for women than for men. Therefore, it is essential for women to be aware of the warning signs of a heart attack and to seek medical attention immediately if they experience any of them. In this blog post, our team at PrimeCare Emergency Center discusses heart attack symptoms that women should know and when to seek medical help at our emergency center.
Chest Pain and Discomfort
Chest pain is the most common symptom of a heart attack experienced by both men and women. However, the pain is often not as severe in women as it is in men. It’s common for women to experience a squeezing or tightness feeling in their chest that can last for more than a few minutes. This discomfort may come and go, making it hard to pinpoint the cause.
The discomfort can be described as a dull ache, tightness, or pressure in the chest that isn't relieved by rest or medication. Others have described it as more of a burning sensation. Women are also more likely than men to have pain in other areas, such as the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
Shortness of Breath
Women may experience shortness of breath or difficulty breathing before having a heart attack without experiencing any chest pain. This symptom is often dismissed as an asthma attack or acid reflux but can be a sign of a heart attack. This happens when the heart struggles to pump blood, and the lungs don't receive enough oxygen. Women can experience this symptom while performing everyday activities or even while resting.
Dizziness or Lightheadedness
During a heart attack, the heart struggles to circulate blood, causing a drop in blood pressure. This can lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, and sometimes even fainting, particularly while standing up. Women often feel this symptom accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or sweating.
Fatigue
Unexplained fatigue or a feeling of weakness, especially on exertion, can also be a sign of a heart attack. Women may feel more tired than usual or unable to keep up with their daily activities. The fatigue is consistent and does not improve with rest. Women with diabetes are more likely to have this symptom.
Sleep Disturbances
Sleep disturbances, including difficulty falling or staying asleep, can indicate an increased risk of a heart attack. Studies show that women who experience sleep disturbances have a higher risk of developing heart disease.
Patient-Catered Emergency Care in Arlington
Women should be aware of the signs and symptoms of a heart attack and seek medical attention immediately if they experience any of them. Because the symptoms of a heart attack in women can differ from those in men, women should listen to their bodies and not ignore anything that seems off.
Recognizing these early warning signs and seeking immediate medical attention is essential to prevent further damage to your heart. If you or anyone you know experiences these symptoms, especially in combination, take the situation seriously and don't hesitate to visit us.
When in doubt, always seek help. Call (682) 253-6655 or stop by our emergency center today.