A heart attack is something that affects both genders, but the symptoms can vary from men to women.
Different symptoms in men and women
The most common symptoms that men experience during a heart attack are chest discomfort, pains and pressure. While women might suffer the same symptoms, some heart attack symptoms in women aren't as obvious.
Signs of heart attacks in women may manifest themselves in common with symptoms of more trivial illnesses such as the flu. The assumption that it's nothing to worry about could prove to be fatal as the consequences of not getting immediate medical attention often include disability, stroke and in extreme cases, death.
Because signs of heart attacks in women can be so unusual, it's important women know the specific heart attack symptoms that their gender are likely to experience, so that they are able to get the help they need in time.
Signs of heart attack in women
1. Chest pain or discomfort
This symptom is usually a sign of heart attacks in women. It may either feel like fullness or tightness around the chest area. Pains can occur anywhere in the chest, so shouldn't be brushed off just because the pain isn't on the left side.
2. Pain in the arm(s), back, neck, or jaw
With the name 'heart attack', most of us would never expect the pain to be anywhere else, but pain in other areas such as both arms, the jaw and neck are some of the common heart attack symptoms in women. The pain could be gradual and irregular or could come on very suddenly and intensely.
3. Stomach pain
Often confused with heartburn or a stomach ulcer, extreme pain in the stomach could very well be one of the signs of heart attacks in women. At other times it may not occur as pain, but rather as a great pressure in the abdominal area.
4. Shortness of breath, nausea, or feeling lightheaded
For women a feeling of being unable to catch their breath even though they haven't taken part in any strenuous exercise might seem trivial, but chances are, they might be having a heart attack. Women who are experiencing this and any other symptoms mentioned here should seek immediate medical help.
5. Fatigue
Similarly, feeling really tired despite having done nothing physically demanding is usually one of the telltale signs of heart attacks in women. The tiredness is sometimes so extreme that simple activities like walking to the bathroom become a struggle.
6. Sweating
It's normal to sweat in the unforgiving weather of Singapore, but women that are experiencing a cold sweat for no apparent reason (or hot flashes), should consult a doctor immediately as this is one of the signs of heart attacks in women. This type of sweat is not like the normal perspiration caused by physical activity but similar to a stress-related cold sweat.
Find out some of the medical procedures available should you need to undergo heart treatment. With the correct insurance coverage, your bill size can be better gauged and managed, while Mount Elizabeth Hospitals can assist with all Medisave, MediShield Life and integrated shield plan claims.
For your peace of mind, talk to one of our heart specialists today.
