Early Signs of Heart Attack in Women vs. Men in Corbin, KY

It is important to talk about heart attack symptoms differently in men and women because women frequently present with symptom pattern that is different than men. This often leads to a delay in recognition, diagnosis and treatment and may result in worse outcomes. Men with heart attack usually present with chest pain or pressure. This is usually described as substernal pressure, tightness or squeezing sensation and may radiate to your arms, jaws, neck, upper back and can be associated with shortness of breath, generalized weakness, nausea, vomiting and diffuse sweating.

Women with heart attack less likely present with chest pain or pressure as compared to men and may present with shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, generalized chest discomfort, epigastric pain, and unusual fatigue. The symptoms are sometimes missed or misunderstood because they are less specific and providers and patient may fail to recognize it especially the absence of chest pain.

Women sometimes delay seeking medical care for heart attack as compared to men because the symptoms are usually atypical and they usually fail to recognize it as cardiac symptoms. Women also frequently prioritize their social and family responsibilities over seeking medical care for themselves.

The single most important thing about recognizing heart attack symptoms and acting fast is to not wait. Call nine one one immediately for the first signs of heart attack symptoms.

Remember time is muscle. The faster we act, the more heart muscle we can save.