Women & Heart Disease

Heart disease continues to be the most frequent cause of death in both men and women in the United States. In fact, among women each year, 1 out of 3 deaths are caused by heart disease and stroke. The reality is that heart disease symptoms manifest differently in women. By remaining proactive about your heart health and knowing what signs to recognize, you can vastly reduce your risk of heart disease and ensure you receive the necessary treatment.

Women Experience Heart Disease Symptoms Differently

The stereotype of how heart disease manifests proliferates popular culture as an older man clutching his chest in pain. When it comes to women and heart disease, stereotypes do not apply. Chest pain and pressure is a common symptom in both men and women, but women may only experience minimal chest pain or none at all. The symptoms are typically more subtle, but the potential outcome is not any less severe. Symptoms include:

• Neck or Jaw Pain
• Upper Back or Abdominal Discomfort
• Pain in One or Both Arms
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Perspiration
• Lightheadedness
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Indigestion

If you experience any of the aforementioned symptoms, call 9-1-1 and seek emergency medical attention immediately.