Symptoms of heart attack in women: Don't ignore these 8 warning signs

Women are at risk for heart attacks due to a combination of factors, including hormonal changes, such as menopause. (Image: Canva)

Women are at risk of heart attacks due to a combination of factors, including hormonal changes such as menopause, which affect heart health. Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol can contribute to heart disease. Lifestyle factors, such as smoking, an unhealthy diet, and a lack of exercise, also play a significant role. Stress and autoimmune diseases may further increase the risk.

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Symptoms of heart attacks in women can be subtler than in men, making early detection and treatment more challenging. Awareness and proactive management of risk factors are crucial for reducing the likelihood of heart attacks in women. Here are eight common symptoms of a heart attack in women, according to Delhi-based cardiologist Dr Rashmi Khanna.

Chest pain or discomfort: This may feel like pressure, squeezing, or fullness in the chest, typically on the left side or centre. The discomfort can last for minutes or fluctuate, sometimes disappearing and returning. This symptom is a classic sign but may vary in intensity and presentation among women.

Pain in other areas: Discomfort from a heart attack can radiate to the back, neck, jaw, or arms. This pain might not be isolated to the chest, and its spread can make the symptoms less immediately recognisable as heart-related.

Shortness of breath: Women may experience difficulty breathing, either with chest pain or independently. This symptom can occur suddenly or during activities, and it may be accompanied by or occur without chest discomfort.

Nausea or vomiting: Heart attacks can cause gastrointestinal distress, including nausea or vomiting. These symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for other digestive issues, complicating the identification of a heart attack.

Unusual fatigue: Extreme tiredness that is not linked to physical exertion can signal a heart attack. This fatigue is often profound and can persist even with rest, and it may be mistaken for simple exhaustion or stress.

Lightheadedness or dizziness: Feeling faint or lightheaded can be indicative of a heart attack, particularly when accompanied by other symptoms. This can result from reduced blood flow and may cause unsteadiness or the sensation of being about to faint.

Cold sweat: Unexplained sweating, especially when it occurs alongside other symptoms, can be a sign of a heart attack. This cold sweat often appears suddenly and without an obvious cause, signalling a potential emergency.

Indigestion or heartburn: Severe indigestion or heartburn-like sensations can sometimes mask a heart attack. These symptoms may be confusing, as they are often associated with gastrointestinal issues, making it important to consider the context and severity.

It's important to note that not everyone will experience all these symptoms, and they can vary in severity. If you or someone else is experiencing these symptoms, especially if they are sudden or severe, seek medical help immediately.