Understanding Heart Attack Symptoms in Women
Heart disease is often seen as a “man’s problem,” but in reality, it is the leading cause of death for women around the world. Unfortunately, many women do not recognize the signs of a heart attack, leading to delays in treatment and care. Unlike men, women may not experience the typical crushing chest pain during a heart attack.
Dr. Tanmay S Kulkarni, a cardiologist at Jupiter Hospital, emphasizes the importance of understanding these differences. He points out that women often exhibit subtle symptoms that can be mistaken for everyday issues like stress, fatigue, or indigestion. Recognizing these atypical signs is crucial for saving lives.
While chest pain is common for both men and women, women are more likely to show unusual symptoms such as jaw pain, nausea, shortness of breath, and extreme tiredness. These differences can lead to confusion and misdiagnosis, putting women's health at risk.
One significant issue is that many women do not seek immediate help because their symptoms do not seem to align with a typical heart attack. This misunderstanding stems from biological differences. Women are more prone to conditions like coronary microvascular disease, where smaller arteries are blocked rather than the large vessels commonly affected in men. Hormonal changes, particularly the drop in estrogen after menopause, also impact how women’s hearts respond to heart disease.
Despite these challenges, heart disease prevention is possible through lifestyle changes and timely medical care. Women over 40, especially those with risk factors like diabetes or high blood pressure, should prioritize regular heart screenings. Raising awareness about gender-specific heart attack symptoms can empower women to seek care early, significantly improving survival rates and health outcomes.
In India, where heart disease in women is often underdiagnosed, it is essential to spread knowledge about these symptoms and encourage proactive health measures. By doing so, we can help save lives and ensure better health for all women.
