Signs of Women's Heart Disease

A typical heart attack does not come on suddenly as we see in movies where you grab your chest and fall over and die, but comes on gradually and with some obvious and not so obvious signs. Some of these signs can be mistaken for other things going on, but you should always be aware that it might be an oncoming heart attack.

 

In the days or weeks before a heart attack, 70% of women experience extreme fatigue. Take note if your fatigue cannot be explained by other illness or medication.

 

Be aware of prolonged sleep disturbance for more than a week. About half the woman who suffered a heart attack, experienced this.

 

Unexplained shortness of breath while doing normal activities could be a sign of an oncoming heart attack.

 

Along with sudden nausea or vomiting, nearly 40% of women experience heartburn or indigestion shortly before a heart attack.

 

A heart attack can mimic a panic attack which means unexplained anxiety.

 

Women explain their chest pain when having a heart attack as sharp, fullness or tingling, but also complain of discomfort in other areas of the body such aching or burning in upper back, neck, shoulders, arms, jaw or throat.

 

Some women break out in a cold sweat or become dizzy or light-headed, which can also be symptoms of a stroke.

 

How do you recognize these symptoms that suggest you might be suffering a heart attack? First, know your body and where the usual aches or pains are and what triggers them. Ask your doctor if you are at higher risk because of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, or smoke. If you experience any of these symptoms and feel not quite right, discuss it with your doctor, or if you experience any of these symptoms together go to the hospital ASAP!

 

Article submitted by: Gail