Signs of heart disease may be more subtle in women than men

December 18, 2024
Signs of heart disease in women_1200x630

Sweating, nausea, dizziness and unusual fatigue may not sound like typical heart attack symptoms. However, they are common for women.

 

Unlike with men, pain, pressure or discomfort in the chest are not always severe or even the most prominent heart attack symptom in women. That’s why women need to understand their unique symptoms while also working to reduce their risk of heart disease.

 

Heart attack basics

Heart attacks in both men and women usually start with heart disease. Cholesterol builds up in the coronary arteries. Eventually this buildup can lead to blood clots that block the blood supply to part of the heart muscle. The result is a heart attack. About every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a heart attack, according to the American Heart Association (AHA).

 

Symptoms for women

Knowing the signs of a heart attack is important for everyone. But according to the AHA and National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), women are more likely than men to experience:

  • Unusual fatigue and weakness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Back or jaw pain

 

Unfortunately, women often ignore their symptoms or delay getting help, according to the NHLBI.

 

What women can do

Understanding the risks for heart disease can help women protect themselves from heart attack. These risks include:

  • A family history of heart disease
  • Being older than 55
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol

 

You can't change your age or your family history. But you can reduce your other risks by making healthy lifestyle choices. The AHA recommends:

 

Don't smoke cigarettes and avoid secondhand smoke.

 

Be physically active at least 30 minutes a day on five or more days a week.

 

Eat a heart-healthy diet with an emphasis on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat or nonfat dairy products, lean meats, and fish.

 

Work toward a healthy weight by balancing the foods you eat with physical activity.

 

You're in charge

Talk to your healthcare team if you believe you are at risk for heart disease and come up with a plan that works for your health journey.

 

Want some more heart-healthy tips/information this American Heart Month? Visit: Make Your Heart Happy by Focusing on Your Cardiovascular Health (azblue.com).

 

Don't underestimate what you can do for your own heart. Most heart attacks can be prevented, and it starts with you.