6 Heart Attack Warning Signs that are Unique to Women

It isn’t just a guy thing. Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of both women and men in the United States. 

Unfortunately, only a small percentage of women believe this is the greatest health problem facing them today. And that’s concerning, because while the overall death rate from heart disease has decreased in men, it continues to increase in women.

Coronary artery disease, or the build-up of cholesterol-containing deposits in the arteries, is one of the most common forms of heart disease. Women and men are both at risk for the disease, but women typically do not show signs until 5 to 10 years after men do.

Because nobody is exempt from heart disease, it is important speak with your physician about your risk factors for the disease (and a resulting heart attack).

Knowing the heart attack warning signs is important because early treatment can mean preventing severe long-term health problems or even potentially the difference between life and death. Just as the statistics between women and men vary greatly, so too do heart symptoms. The movies depict the traditional warning signs (which you should be aware of), such as arm pain and chest pressure or pain.

Many people, especially women, may exhibit different heart attack symptoms.

1. Nausea
2. Stomach, neck, shoulder or upper back pain
3. Sweating
4. Breathlessness
5. Dizziness
6. Jaw pain

Movies also falsely stereotype heart attack sufferers as older people, but heart disease can occur in people of all ages. Male or female, young or old, if you exhibit any unusual symptoms like those listed above, you should go to the Emergency Room immediately.