Heart attacks can look different in women than in men, and the symptoms can be subtle or easily dismissed. As a result, women are often misdiagnosed and undertreated for heart disease. In this article, we will discuss how heart attacks look different in women and why it's important to recognize the symptoms.
Common Symptoms in Women
Chest pain or discomfort is the most common symptom of a heart attack in both men and women, but women may experience it differently. Women may describe the pain as pressure, tightness, or aching, rather than the classic crushing or squeezing sensation.
The pain may also be located in the upper back, neck, jaw, or abdomen, rather than the chest.
Shortness of breath is another common symptom in women. They may feel like they can't catch their breath, or they may experience sudden, intense fatigue without exertion. Nausea or vomiting, sweating, lightheadedness, or dizziness may also occur.
Less Common Symptoms in Women
Women may also experience less common symptoms that are not typically associated with heart attacks. These symptoms may include:
Pain or discomfort in the arm, neck, jaw, or shoulder
Pain or discomfort in the upper back or abdomen
Sudden onset of flu-like symptoms, including fatigue, nausea, and shortness of breath
Sleep disturbances or anxiety
Why Women are Misdiagnosed
Women are often misdiagnosed or undertreated for heart disease because their symptoms may be different from men's and may not fit the classic presentation of a heart attack. Women are also more likely to delay seeking treatment because they may not recognize the symptoms as being related to heart disease.
In addition, many healthcare providers may not recognize the differences in symptoms between men and women or may not take women's complaints seriously. Women are also less likely to be referred for diagnostic tests or treatment compared to men.
It's important to recognize the symptoms of heart disease in women and seek prompt medical attention. Women should advocate for their health and be aware of their risk factors for heart disease. Healthcare providers should also be aware of the differences in symptoms between men and women and take women's complaints seriously.
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