Heart attack symptoms can be subtle or atypical

On World Heart Day, health experts are warning that heart attacks do not always present with intense chest pain. Symptoms can be subtle or atypical, including shortness of breath, cold sweats, nausea, dizziness, and discomfort in the jaw, neck, back, or stomach.

The World Health Organization notes that women are more likely than men to experience specific symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and shortness of breath. Medical professionals warn that in women, these signs are frequently misattributed to menopause or panic attacks, which can lead to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes.

Additionally, the decline of estrogen during menopause increases cardiovascular risk, a factor compounded by common conditions like obesity, insulin resistance, and hypertension. Experts urge immediate medical attention for sudden, intense pain or any unusual fatigue and shortness of breath, regardless of whether traditional chest pain is present.