Angina, or chest pain, is a common symptom of coronary artery disease and is typically characterized by pain or vicelike pressure. In 2008, the Centers for Disease Control reported that 3.3 percent of women had experienced angina. Not only are the symptoms of angina different for women and men--when angina strikes is also often different between the sexes. Women are more likely to experience angina during times of mental or emotional stress and even while sleeping. They may also experience angina during periods of exercise and exertion.
Pain
The pain women describe during an episode of angina is often different than the classic pain that men describe. A woman with angina may feel a sharper, stabbing pain centered over the chest that radiates to her left arm, jaw and abdomen versus the crushing, pressure-type pain men describe. Women have also reported episodes of angina without feeling chest pain.
Nausea
Women are more likely than men to report feeling nauseous during episodes of angina. They may also experience indigestion or a fullness that they may mistake for heartburn or gastrointestinal illness. This confusion can lead to potential misdiagnosis and delayed treatment.
Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath is another symptom that is more commonly reported by women than men during an angina attack. Women are also more likely to have these episodes while doing their daily activities--such as cleaning, laundry, cooking or working--rather than during periods of exertion such as exercise, shoveling or raking. However, attacks can happen during exertion. Women may also experience dizziness or feel lightheaded during an attack.
Extreme Fatigue
Women with angina often report extreme fatigue during episodes. Be sure your doctor knows about any overwhelming feelings of fatigue you have had, as this vague symptom can sometimes help diagnose dangerous heart issues.
Types
There are two main types of angina: stable and unstable. Stable angina refers to a pattern of angina that occurs when your heart works harder; it lasts five minutes or less. This type of angina subsides when you take your prescribed angina medication or when you rest; it is usually predictable and follows a pattern over time.
Unstable angina does not subside with the use of angina medications or rest and is different than any established patterns of angina. It is typically more severe and can last up to 30 minutes. Unstable angina may signal a heart attack and you should seek medical attention immediately.
Talk with your health-care provider about any symptoms you have so that any heart conditions can be diagnosed and treated as early as possible.
