Every year more women die from heart disease then breast cancer. In addition, they may not seek treatment because they do not think that their symptoms are a sign of heart disease. Women also tend to get symptoms on average about ten years later then men do. While women can have the typical symptoms of heart disease, unlike men, they may also have symptoms that are not usually associated with this condition. Thus it is important to know both the typical heart disease symptoms as well as the atypical ones that women may have.
Common Female Symptoms
According to the Cleveland Clinic, prior to having a heart attack or stroke women may have symptoms not automatically related to heart disease. They state that "...the most frequently reported symptoms were unusual fatigue, sleep disturbances, shortness of breath, indigestion and anxiety." In some cases these symptoms occurred as much as 30 days before a heart attack or other cardiac event occurred.
Chest Pain
Women can also experience symptoms that are related to heart disease. This includes chest pain that may be sharp, stabbing or burning. There may also be a sensation of pressure or fullness in the chest as well. These symptoms may feel similar to heartburn or indigestion. The Mayo Clinic states that while women may get pain or pressure in the chest, it may not be as severe as it is with a man and thus may not be taken seriously.
Additional Symptoms
The National Institute of Nursing Research recommends that if a women experiences certain symptoms she should call for help right away, even if she is not having chest pain. This includes warning signs such as shortness of breath, unusual fatigue, breaking into a cold sweat, abnormal heartbeats, dizziness, weakness, nausea and pain or discomfort in the stomach, shoulders, arms or back.
