Heart attack in women: how to recognize the symptoms


Symptoms of heart attack can be easily confused with other disorders, which is why it is essential to be aware of them and, if in doubt, consult a specialist or the emergency room.

Several researches show that the symptoms of heart attack in women differ slightly from those in men . Some symptoms, in fact, are more noticeable in women and knowing them is decisive in first aid measures.

Most worryingly, most women ignore these warning signs and the preventative measures they should take. Health experts also claim that lack of awareness of the symptoms has serious consequences, as the person does not act on time and in the correct way.

On the other hand, they are often confused with ailments other than heart problems. In this article we present the most frequent symptoms of heart attack in women in order to recognize them and intervene. 

Heart attack in women: symptoms

By virtue of the fact that most women ignore the symptoms of a heart attack, we take this opportunity to share some important information to consider in an emergency .

Nausea with vomiting

In the event of a heart attack , women are twice as likely as men to experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting , stomach acid or indigestion.

These red flags are often ignored, as they are similar to those of other less serious diseases . However, it is important to keep them in mind, especially if they are accompanied by other symptoms.

Feeling of suffocation

At rest or during any physical activity, sudden breathlessness may occur, with the consequent need to take air and take deep breaths.

This symptom, which can also occur on its own, occurs when the heart is unable to pump incoming blood, which accumulates in the lungs and hinders breathing.

Unusual fatigue

The woman can experience a sudden lack of energy that can last several days and gradually increase .

This seemingly unmotivated feeling of fatigue is reported by more than half of women with heart attacks.

Pain in the center of the chest

It is an overwhelming pain comparable to a weight that crushes the chest . It typically lasts a few minutes and can also occur intermittently. It is a pain that immediately puts you on alert, as never felt before.

Disorder in the upper part of the neck

You may feel pain or discomfort in your back, neck, or jaw. The pain can also radiate to the arms or pit of the stomach .

Other symptoms of heart attack in women

  • Extreme anxiety .
  • Cold sweat.
  • Alteration of heartbeat.
  • Pale or purple color around the lips.
  • Feeling nauseous or lightheaded like never before.

Symptoms are usually felt a few days or hours before the heart attack . They do not all manifest together and may appear progressively until the event.

What to do in case of a heart attack in a woman?

When faced with the symptoms of a heart attack, it is important to act promptly, before the heart suffers serious or irreversible damage. Treatment is most effective when applied within the first hour of onset of symptoms .

In the event of prolonged chest pain, it is essential to call an ambulance or be escorted to the emergency room right away . Avoid going to the hospital alone, as the situation could worsen en route, aggravating the situation.

If the symptoms disappear after five minutes or appear intermittently, you should see a doctor promptly to get a correct diagnosis , as it could still be a heart condition. The faster the intervention, the less likely it is to face tragic consequences.

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