Heart attacks are often portrayed as a dramatic scene—someone clutching their chest, gasping for air, and collapsing. But did you know that for women, a heart attack might not look anything like that? Women often experience heart attacks differently than men, leading to misdiagnosis or delayed treatment. That’s why understanding the unique signs and risks can be life-saving.
How Women’s Heart Attacks Differ from Men’s
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the U.S., yet many still believe it’s a “man’s disease.” According to the CDC,1 in 5 female deaths are due to heart disease, but because symptoms present differently in women, they are often overlooked—by both patients and even healthcare providers.
1.Symptoms: More Than Just Chest Pain
While chest pain or discomfort is still a common symptom in both men and women, women are more likely to experience “silent” heart attacks or atypical symptoms that can be mistaken for something less serious.
Common Symptoms in Women:
- Unusual fatigue – Feeling extremely tired even with light activity.
- Shortness of breath – Difficulty catching your breath, even at rest.
- Pain in the jaw, neck, or upper back – Women often report pain in these areas instead of the chest.
- Nausea or vomiting – Sometimes confused with indigestion or stomach issues.
- Lightheadedness or dizziness – Feeling faint or weak.
- Cold sweats – Sudden, unexplained sweating that feels like a panic attack.
These symptoms may come and go and are often dismissed as stress, acid reflux, or the flu—leading to dangerous delays in seeking medical help.
2. Different Triggers for Heart Attacks
Women’s heart attacks can be triggered by factors different from men’s. While plaque buildup in arteries (atherosclerosis) is a common cause for both, women are more prone to spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD)—a condition where the heart’s blood vessels tear unexpectedly. Additionally, emotional stress, hormonal changes, and pregnancy-related complications can contribute to heart attack risks in women.
3. The Role of Hormones in Heart Health
Estrogen, which helps keep blood vessels flexible and promotes good cholesterol, offers some protection against heart disease. However, after menopause, estrogen levels drop, increasing the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and artery stiffness, making women more vulnerable to heart attacks.
Risk Factors Unique to Women
While some risk factors are the same for everyone—such as smoking, obesity, and diabetes—women have additional risk factors to consider:
- Pregnancy complications – Preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and high blood pressure during pregnancy increase the risk of heart disease later in life.
- Autoimmune diseases – Conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis disproportionately affect women and can raise heart disease risk.
- Depression and stress – Mental health has a significant impact on heart health, and women are more likely to experience depression, which can contribute to high blood pressure and unhealthy habits.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) – Women with PCOS are more likely to develop high blood pressure and cholesterol problems.
How Women Can Protect Their Heart Health
Understanding the risks and taking proactive steps can significantly reduce the chances of heart disease and heart attacks. Here’s how:
- Know Your Numbers: Keep track of your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar.
- Adopt a Heart-Healthy Diet: Load up on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats (like avocados and olive oil).
- Move More: Regular exercise (at least 30 minutes a day) helps maintain a strong heart.
- Manage Stress: Find healthy coping mechanisms like meditation, yoga, or therapy.
- Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol: Smoking increases heart disease risk significantly, and excessive alcohol can raise blood pressure.
- Listen to Your Body: Don’t ignore symptoms, even if they seem mild—seek medical help if something feels off.
Advocate for Your Heart Health
Women need to be their own health advocates because heart disease doesn’t always look the way we expect it to. If something feels off, don’t hesitate to speak up and seek medical attention. Early detection and lifestyle changes can prevent heart attacks and improve overall heart health.
Want expert guidance on heart health? Schedule a consultation with DrNewMed today!
