In recent decades, scientists have realized that heart attack symptoms can be quite different for women than for men. The journal Circulation published the findings of a multicenter study of 515 women who’d experienced a heart attack. The most frequently reported symptoms didn’t include chest pain. Instead, women reported unusual fatigue, sleep disturbances, and anxiety. Nearly 80 percent reported experiencing at least one symptom for more than a month before their heart attack. In a survey published in the journal Circulation, only 65 percent of women said they’d call 911 if they thought they might be having a heart attack.
Symptoms of a heart attack in women include:
Even if you’re not sure, get emergency care right away. Base your decision on what feels normal and abnormal for you. If you haven’t experienced symptoms like this before, don’t hesitate to get help. If you don’t agree with your doctor’s conclusion, get a second opinion.
Unusual fatigue lasting for several days or sudden severe fatigue
Profound and unexplained fatigue or a sudden decrease in energy levels can sometimes be a warning sign of a heart attack in women.
Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia, unusual restlessness, or waking up frequently during the night, have been reported as warning signs in some women prior to a heart attack.
Anxiety
Some women may experience a sense of impending doom, anxiety
, or a feeling that something is terribly wrong during a heart attack.
Read More: Man who survived heart attack captured the exact moment it took over his body
Lightheadedness
Feeling dizzy or faint is another symptom that may occur during a heart attack.
Shortness of breath
Feeling breathless or having difficulty catching your breath can be a symptom of a heart attack. This may occur with or without chest discomfort.
Indigestion or gas-like pain
Symptoms that may indicate a silent heart attack include:
Some women may feel nauseated or may vomit during a heart attack, which can be mistaken for other gastrointestinal issues
- mild discomfort in your chest, arms, or jaw that goes away after resting
- shortness of breath and tiring easily
- sleep disturbances and increased fatigue
- abdominal pain or heartburn
- skin clamminess
After having a silent heart attack, you may experience more fatigue than before or find that exercise becomes more difficult. Get regular physical exams to stay on top of your heart health. If you have cardiac risk factors, talk to your doctor about getting tests done to check the condition of your heart
