What are common symptoms of a heart attack in women?

The common symptoms of a heart attack in women can often be distinct from those typically recognized in men. While chest pain is a well-known symptom, women may experience a broader range of signs. Unusual fatigue and anxiety are particularly significant; many women report feeling an overwhelming sense of fatigue that is not associated with physical exertion. This can occur days or even weeks before a heart attack, making it a vital symptom to recognize. Anxiety can also manifest as a feeling of impending doom, which may accompany other symptoms or occur independently.

In contrast, while symptoms such as nausea and shortness of breath are also relevant to heart attacks in general (and can occur in both genders), the specifics of fatigue and anxiety are often highlighted as more prevalent in women. Sudden headaches and dizziness are less commonly associated with heart attacks than the other symptoms. Understanding these gender-specific presentations is crucial for prompt recognition and treatment of heart attacks, especially in women, who may not present with the stereotypical symptoms usually taught in first aid training.