The Fidelis Care Blog


Is it a heart attack? Women may have unique symptoms
5/24/2019 • Posted by Dr. Camille Pearte, Cardiologist in Health and Wellness

Heart attack

Only half of women who have heart attacks have chest pain. Women are more likely than men to have other symptoms, including:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Pain in the back, neck, jaw, or throat
  • Heartburn
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Tiredness, dizziness, lightheadedness
  • Indigestion

Women are also more likely to have “silent” heart attacks without any symptoms. These can be found weeks or months later by a health care provider during a regular electrocardiogram. Silent heart attacks can happen at any age, and are more common in women with diabetes.

Even if you are not sure you are having a heart attack, call 911 right away. Getting help quickly could save your life. If your doctor or the 911 operator recommend it, take an aspirin while you wait for help.

 

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