The Signs of Heart Attacks That You Should Not Ignore and Why They Are More Common in Women
Heart attacks are often thought of as a male health problem, yet they are equally, if not more, deadly for women. According to studies, women are more likely to have mild symptoms, which might cause diagnosis and treatment to be delayed. This raises the possibility of serious side effects and maybe death. It can save lives to recognize these warning signs and get help right away.
Unlike men, women's heart attack symptoms are frequently confused with less serious ailments including weariness, stress, or indigestion. Many women may suffer minor discomfort, nausea, dizziness, or jaw and back pain instead of the typical crushing chest agony. Because of these variations in symptoms, awareness and quick response are even more important in preventing deadly consequences.
Why are Heart Attacks more fatal in women?
Men and women experience heart attacks in different ways. It is more challenging to recognize the signs of a heart attack and to treat it promptly since men and women suffer various heart attack symptoms.
Women usually experience atypical symptoms which are often confused with less serious conditions that delays the recognition of heart attack symptoms. Putting off medical attention might also increase the chances of having a heart attack as the early warning signs may be neglected.
Moreover, women are prone to experience "silent heart attacks" which may go unnoticed as it has faint or undetectable symptoms. In women, hormonal factors play a major role, specifically after menopause as estrogen's protective effect on heart health reduces considerably which increases the risk of heart related diseases.
Some specific risk factors for women for heart disease are:
- Menopause that occurs too soon (before age 40)
- Pregnancy-related issues (such preeclampsia or gestational hypertension)
- Premature delivery of a child
Women can take preventative measures to safeguard their heart health and lower their risk of deadly heart attacks by being aware of these dangers and symptoms early on.
Common Heart Attack Symptoms and Risk Factors in Women
Most women experience symptoms that are less relatable to consider as symptoms for heart attack which is often overlooked or assumed to be caused by some other reason like stress, stomach bug or post-workout aches.
Chest pain is the most common and easily recognizable woman's heart attack symptom. Some other symptoms and risk factors include:
Symptoms:
- Cold sweat
- Extreme exhaustion
- Heartburn or indigestion
- Feeling dizzy
- Vomiting or feeling nauseous
- Arm pain
- Back, neck, jaw, or stomach pain
- Breathlessness
Risk Factors:
- Increased blood pressure or cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Being overweight or obese
- Vaping and smoking
- Lack of physical activity
- Heredity Heart disease
- Getting older
Tips & Techniques to Lower the Risk of Heart Attacks
Some tips to prevent the risk of Heart Diseases in women include:
- Undergoing routine medical examinations.
- Taking action to control additional medical issues, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
- Avoiding all forms of tobacco and, if required, quitting smoking.
- Weight loss for people who are overweight.
- Participating in cardiovascular exercise, such as walking, for at least half an hour each day.
- Maintaining a healthy diet and, if required, seeking nutritional guidance from a dietician.
- Reduce stress level
- Get adequate rest.
- Restricting alcohol consumption, particularly when it comes to stimulants like cocaine and amphetamines.
When to see a Doctor?
If a person experiences any of the above given symptoms or risk factors they should immediately consult a doctor to know whether these are the early stage symptoms to heart attacks. Detecting it early and having some changes in your lifestyle will definitely reduce the risk for heart attack or heart related diseases.
For expert guidance and heart health screenings, Book an Appointment Here.
Conclusion:
Women's heart attack symptoms are very minor and can go unnoticed. The risk of heart-related disorders can be significantly reduced by leading a healthy lifestyle and being aware of the risk factors and warning symptoms. A balanced diet, frequent checkups, physical activity, and stress management can all help lower your risk and safeguard your heart.
