Cardiologists warn of distinct heart attack symptoms in women

Medical experts are warning that heart attack symptoms in women often differ from the classic chest pain seen in men, frequently leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer health outcomes.

Unlike men, who often experience a complete blockage of blood flow, women may experience a reduction in flow. This can result in more subtle or varied symptoms, including extreme fatigue, nausea, jaw or back pain, shortness of breath, and digestive discomfort. Because these signs can mimic menopause, anxiety, or indigestion, they are often misidentified.

Physiological factors also play a role. The protective effect of estrogen decreases during menopause, increasing cardiovascular risk. Additionally, women are more susceptible to specific conditions such as spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) and microvascular disease. Experts emphasize that medical research has historically focused on male profiles, making it vital for women to recognize these distinct warning signs to seek timely medical intervention.