Heart Attack in Women: Everything You Need to Know

A heart attack can strike at any time, but there are some clear warning signs to look out for, especially if you’re a woman. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women, accounting for more than 25% of all female deaths every year, and heart attacks in women tend to be different from those that affect men, and carry more risk factors than men’s do. In this blog, we’ll look at what these differences are, how you can know if you’re having one, and how to treat it once it occurs.

What is a Heart Attack?

A heart attack occurs when a part of your heart muscle is deprived of oxygen and nutrients. The effect of oxygen deprivation on your heart muscle depends on how much blood flow is blocked and for how long. It is more likely to be damage that is permanent and is not possible to repair through medication or surgery. Heart attacks can happen at any age, but they are more prevalent among older adults, as well as people who have high blood pressure, diabetes or other conditions that affect their hearts. Heart attacks are also more prevalent among women than among men.

Do Women Experience Different Heart Attacks?

Although a heart attack can happen at any age, it is more common among older men than you would think, this doesn't mean that women are exempt from heart disease and heart attacks. In fact, about 1 in 4 people who have a heart attack each year are women. A woman’s risk for experiencing a cardiovascular problem increases after menopause.

What Are The Heart Attack Symptoms?

Heart attack symptoms vary, but they are often not what people expect. Some heart attack symptoms include pain or discomfort in your chest, upper body or arms, neck, jaw and/or back. In addition to difficult breathing, symptoms of a heart attack can include dizziness, nausea, and profuse sweating. It’s important to note that some people experience no signs or symptoms before a heart attack happens; others may notice fatigue and be unaware that it could be linked to other underlying problems. Some women might mistake their heart attack for indigestion or muscle pain caused by exercise. Because there is such variability with symptoms—and because other conditions can cause similar signs and symptoms—it’s important to seek immediate medical care when you think you are having a heart attack.

What To Do If You Suspect You Are Having A Heart Attack?

If you experience some of these heart attack warning signs, there is no time to waste. Do not hesitate, but be mindful and patient. You may have had a heart attack. Do not drive yourself to an emergency room as it can be hard for a person who has not had training on how to take care of someone with chest pain and difficulty breathing. Many people feel symptoms like shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness or fatigue without actually being in danger of a heart attack. However, if any symptoms do persist beyond 10 minutes without relief or they get worse over time, call 9-1-1 right away.

How Is My Doctor Going to Treat Me After a Heart Attack?

Heart attack treatment after a heart attack is often very different for women than it is for men. The reason? It’s because female hearts are typically smaller and they tend to be more sensitive, especially if you have risk factors like diabetes or hypertension. Your doctor will first determine whether your symptoms match those of a heart attack (as opposed to another condition). If so, he or she will begin immediate treatment. While your doctor may not know whether you had an actual heart attack until an angiogram is performed later on (usually within 24 hours), he or she can start treating your symptoms immediately by giving you medication that helps with chest pain and abnormal heartbeat as well as aspirin to help prevent blood clots from forming.

What Other Precautions Can Be Taken To Avoid Another Heart Attack?

Many women who’ve suffered a heart attack are worried that they’ll suffer another one soon. That is quite normal, and it’s vital that you don’t let your stress levels get out of control. Find ways to reduce your stress; whether it’s getting some exercise, talking with loved ones, or taking up meditation—stress relievers like these can go a long way toward helping you remain healthy and heart-attack free.