In recent years, researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery: heart attack symptoms in women can be vastly different from those experienced by men. A study published in the journal Circulation revealed that women often report unusual fatigue, sleep disturbances, and anxiety in the months leading up to a heart attack. In fact, nearly 80 percent of women reported experiencing at least one symptom for more than a month before their heart attack.
Women’s bodies often send out subtle signals that something is amiss. Unusual fatigue, for instance, can manifest as a sudden decrease in energy levels or a feeling of exhaustion that lasts for days. Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or restlessness, can also be a warning sign. Anxiety, too, can be a symptom, often accompanied by a sense of impending doom or a feeling that something is terribly wrong.
Other symptoms that women may experience include lightheadedness, shortness of breath, indigestion, and cold sweats. Jaw pain or pain that spreads to the jaw can also be a symptom, often accompanied by pain or discomfort in the neck, shoulder, back, or stomach. While chest pain is a common symptom in both men and women, women may experience different types of chest discomfort, such as a squeezing, fullness, or burning sensation.
Women over 50 are particularly at risk, as the decline in estrogen levels during menopause can increase the risk of heart disease. Unfortunately, women who experience a heart attack are less likely to survive than men. Therefore, it’s essential to remain vigilant about heart health after menopause.
A silent heart attack is another phenomenon that women should be aware of. This occurs when a heart attack happens without the usual symptoms, and it’s estimated that up to 200,000 Americans experience silent heart attacks each year. These events can cause heart damage and increase the risk of future attacks.
Symptoms that may indicate a silent heart attack include mild discomfort in the chest, arms, or jaw that goes away after resting, shortness of breath, sleep disturbances, and increased fatigue. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical attention.
By scheduling regular checkups and learning to recognize the symptoms of a heart attack, women can help lower their risk of severe heart damage. This may increase life expectancy and overall well-being. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to heart health.
