It is very important to know the symptoms of a heart attack in women, as they can be different and less “typical” than in men. Unfortunately, this means that heart attacks are diagnosed less frequently or later in women, which can be fatal.

Although women can also experience the classic symptoms, “atypical” symptoms are much more common in women.

Typical symptoms of a heart attack (which can also occur in women, but are usually less severe):
Severe pain, pressure or tightness in the chest: Often behind the breastbone, lasting more than five minutes and not getting better. This pain can also be burning.

The pain radiates: To one or both arms (most often the left, but also the right), neck, throat, jaw, shoulder blades or upper abdomen/back.
Shortness of breath: Shortness of breath or feeling like you can’t get enough air.
Cold sweat: Sudden and intense sweating, often cold and clammy.
Fear of death, panic.
Atypical or more common symptoms of a heart attack in women:
In women, the symptoms can be more subtle and diffuse, making diagnosis difficult. They are often confused with other conditions, such as stomach problems, flu or stress. Pay special attention to the following signs:

Intense and unexplained fatigue and weakness: This is often a very early and persistent symptom, occurring days or even weeks before the heart attack itself. It is an exhaustion that does not improve with sleep.
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing without chest pain: Feeling short of breath, even with minimal effort or at rest. This is a very common symptom of a heart attack in women.
Pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen, nausea, vomiting, indigestion: These symptoms are often confused with stomach pain, heartburn or flu, but they can be signs of a heart attack.
Back, neck, jaw, or throat pain: This pain may be diffuse or feel like a pulling, pressing sensation. It is often felt between the shoulder blades or in the upper back.

Dizziness or lightheadedness: A sudden feeling of dizziness, lightheadedness, or lightheadedness.

Sleep disturbances: Difficulty falling or staying asleep, often associated with nighttime awakenings due to discomfort.

General malaise: A diffuse feeling of simply not feeling well, with no clear cause.

Key points for women:

Take symptoms seriously: Take even seemingly harmless or nonspecific symptoms seriously, especially if they occur suddenly or get worse.

Don’t be afraid to call emergency services: Don’t hesitate to call 911, even if you’re not sure. Every minute counts in a heart attack!

Consider risk factors: Risk factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, lack of exercise, and stress are also relevant for women. The risk of heart attack increases in women after menopause because the protective effect of female hormones decreases.
If you or someone close to you experiences these symptoms, especially if they are new, unexplained and/or intense, do not hesitate to seek medical help immediately. Prevention is always better than cure.