Heart disease symptoms in women often differ from those in men, including less obvious signs like fatigue, shortness of breath, and unusual chest discomfort. These differences can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
Women are more likely to experience atypical symptoms, such as neck, jaw, or back pain, nausea, or extreme fatigue. Unlike men, who often report crushing chest pain, women may describe their discomfort as sharp or stabbing.
Symptoms can vary depending on the type of heart disease. Common ones include:
Women are more likely to have "silent" heart attacks, where symptoms are mild or absent. A study by the American Heart Association found that women under 55 were twice as likely as men to have atypical symptoms.
If you experience unexplained chest discomfort, especially with shortness of breath, nausea, or sweating, seek medical help immediately. Early intervention can prevent serious complications.