Too often, women live with undiagnosed heart conditions because we are not paying attention to the signs and symptoms. Women need to know the risk factors. Let’s talk openly about the ways this often-silent killer can present. Heart disease is the number-one killer of women in the United States. Unfortunately, it is often confused with less life-threatening scenarios such as the flu or even indigestion.
Many suffer what is known as a silent heart attack and may not receive treatment until weeks or even months later when an MRI or EKG shows an actual heart attack occurred.
Signs to Watch For
Here are typical signs of a heart attack in women. If you experience these – call 911 and get to a hospital right away.
- Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing sensation, fullness or pain in the center of the chest. It may last longer than a few minutes, or go away then return.
- Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
- Shortness of breath with or without the presence of discomfort in the chest.
- Breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness.
The most common symptom (as with men) is chest pain or discomfort, but women tend to also have the other symptoms listed above.
Other signs to watch for that could indicate a heart attack:
- Fatigue
- Restlessness, insomnia or anxiety
- Nausea and vomiting
- Persistent dry, barking cough
- A sense of impending doom
Preventing Heart Disease
Consulting with your health care provider can help gauge your risk and prevent heart disease. If you smoke, quit, and you will reduce your risk of coronary heart disease by 50 percent! Walking 30 minutes a day can significantly lower your risk of heart attack and stroke. Modify your diet and consider eating a heart-healthy Mediterranean diet.
The Abella Heart team provides professional and experienced cardiac care with compassion, keen intellect, comprehensive knowledge, and expert diagnostic acumen. Contact us today to schedule a consultation to explore treatment and prevention options that are best for you. You can schedule an appointment here.
Abella Health is a unique practice that provides primary care with a specialization in cardiac and vein care. Dr. Manuel Abella is an Interventional Cardiologist and Vein Specialist who has been practicing in the Miami area for 23 years. We offer personalized medicine featuring physician and nurse practitioner accessibility 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our practice promotes disease prevention and wellness, including education for eating a heart-healthy diet. The professional staff provides the most comprehensive range of treatments and diagnostic testing in the area. Contact us today to learn more about how we can meet your specific medical needs.