World Heart Day 2024: Fatigue, pain in the left arm, swelling are subtle symptoms of heart disease

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death among women, claiming the lives of 1 in 3 women globally. Yet, many women are unaware of the unique and often subtle symptoms they may experience, leading to delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis. Unlike men, women frequently present with non-traditional signs of heart disease, which can easily be mistaken for less serious conditions. Understanding and recognising these symptoms is crucial in preventing life-threatening complications.

Women often downplay their symptoms, attributing them to stress or anxiety, says Dr Manoj Kumar, Principal Director & Unit Head, Cath Lab, Cardiac Sciences, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Patparganj. “With ischemic heart disease (IHD) mortality rates in women nearly doubling (from 0.32 million to 0.62 million between 2000 and 2017), it’s vital to remain vigilant about heart health and recognise these signs early to prevent severe outcomes," he adds.

Women must watch out for the following signs of heart diseases, warns Dr Kumar:

• Chest discomfort (Not always pain)

Unlike the intense chest pain commonly associated with heart attacks, women may feel a squeezing, pressure, or fullness in the chest. This discomfort might come and go, making it easier to dismiss as something less serious.

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• Shortness of breath

Difficulty breathing or feeling unusually winded during simple tasks, such as climbing stairs or walking, may signal underlying heart disease.

• Fatigue

Persistent, unexplained exhaustion, especially if it occurs even after resting, can be a red flag for heart disease. This symptom is often overlooked or attributed to other causes like stress or lack of sleep.

• Pain in unusual places

Heart disease in women can manifest as pain not just in the chest, but in other unexpected areas such as:

• Arms (particularly the left arm)
• Back
• Jaw
• Neck
• Stomach

• Lightheadedness and dizziness:

Feeling faint or dizzy when standing up or changing positions could be a warning sign of heart disease. This symptom may also occur alongside shortness of breath or chest discomfort.

• Swelling and weakness:

Unexplained swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet, along with weakness or numbness, can point to heart failure. These signs often go unnoticed but require immediate medical attention.

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Why women are more likely to miss the signs:

• Women’s heart disease symptoms tend to be more subtle and non-specific.
• Women often attribute their symptoms to other conditions like anxiety or stress.
• Family and work responsibilities may cause women to delay seeking medical care.

What women should do:

• Understand your risk factors: family history, high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity increase your chances of heart disease.
• Get regular check-ups and screenings to stay on top of your heart health.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle through exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management.
• Don’t ignore symptoms, seek medical attention immediately if something feels off.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.