Heart Attack Signs in Women: What to Watch For

Heart disease is not only a problem for men. The US CDC notes that it is a leading cause of death for both men and women. Yet signs of a heart attack in women can sometimes be easy to miss. This article explains what official health sources say.

Chest pain and other signs

Chest pain or discomfort is a common sign of a heart attack in both women and men. The CDC describes it as pain in the centre or left side of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes or comes and goes. It may feel like pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.

Other signs women may notice

The CDC says women are more likely than men to have unusual or unexplained tiredness and nausea or vomiting. The WHO also says women are more likely to have breathlessness, nausea, vomiting and back or jaw pain.

Other warning signs listed by the CDC, WHO and MedlinePlus for people in general include:

• Feeling weak, light-headed or faint, sometimes with a cold sweat
• Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck or back
• Pain or discomfort in one or both arms or shoulders
• Shortness of breath, with or without chest discomfort. MedlinePlus says it can come before the chest discomfort or happen at rest or during light activity.
• Discomfort in the upper stomach, heartburn-like feelings, palpitations or dizziness

Symptoms vary from person to person and can be mild or severe, according to MedlinePlus. Because of that, it is wise not to ignore a symptom just because it does not match what you expected. If something feels very different from your normal, it is better to get it checked than to wait and hope it goes away. Tell family members, friends and colleagues about these signs too, so that someone nearby can recognise them and call for help if you cannot.

What causes a heart attack?

The most common cause is coronary artery disease, where plaque builds up in the heart's arteries. MedlinePlus explains that a plaque can rupture and a clot can then block the artery. A severe spasm of a coronary artery is a less common cause.

Risk factors

The CDC says the three key risk factors for heart disease are high blood pressure, high cholesterol and smoking. Other factors include diabetes, being overweight or obese, an unhealthy diet, inactivity and too much alcohol. The CDC also notes a link between heart disease and mental health conditions. Age and family history cannot be changed, but many other factors can.

Lowering your risk

The CDC says heart disease can be silent until a heart attack, heart failure or an irregular heartbeat occurs, so regular check-ups matter. You can work with your doctor on steps such as:

• Not smoking, and avoiding second-hand smoke
• Eating a healthy diet that is lower in saturated fat, trans fat and salt
• Being physically active
• Keeping a healthy weight
• Getting your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar checked and treated if needed
• Taking prescribed medicines as directed

After a heart attack

The CDC says survivors have a higher risk of another heart attack or stroke. This is why follow-up care matters. Cardiac rehabilitation, a supervised programme that includes activity, healthy-living education and support for stress and mental health, can help recovery.

When to see a doctor

If you have unexplained tiredness, breathlessness or chest discomfort that worries you, speak to a doctor soon. Call emergency services immediately if you or someone else has symptoms of a heart attack, even if you are unsure. The CDC says earlier treatment reduces damage to the heart muscle, and MedlinePlus says calling lets emergency teams begin treatment on arrival.

In an emergency, call your local emergency number (112 in India, 911 in the United States).