By Ashley Bramble
Did you know that someone has a heart attack every 34 seconds, and death due a heart attack occurs every 60 seconds? However, many people don’t know they are having a heart attack when it happens.
Some of the most common symptoms for men and women include:
Chest pain or discomfort
Upper body discomfort
Shortness of breath
However men and women may also experience very different symptoms, besides the classic chest pain.
The six common symptoms of a heart attack for women include:
Chest Pain/Discomfort that feels like squeezing or fullness anywhere in the chest
Pain in the arms, back, neck, or jaw. Pain can be gradual or appear suddenly that becomes more intense.
Stomach pain or abdominal pressure. Many women mistake stomach pain for the flu, heartburn, or an ulcer. However, ignoring this symptom could be deadly.
Shortness of breath or lightheadedness.
Breaking out in a cold, nervous sweat is a common symptom for women.
Unusual fatigue that lasts for several days
While some women may experience the classic symptoms of a heart attack, many experience vague or silent symptoms. Women who don’t recognize their symptoms may delay or even forgo treatment. Even a small delay in treatment can be deadly.
The common symptoms in men include:
Chest discomfort that feels like squeezing, pressure, or pain
Discomfort in one or both of the arms, back, neck, abdomen, or jaw
“Heartburn,” fullness, or sense of indigestion
Feeling Lightheaded, dizzy, or faint
Breaking out in a cold sweat
Shortness of breath
Symptoms of a heart attack can vary from person to person. Symptoms may even be different from previous heart attacks. If you have one or more of these symptoms that last for more than 5 minutes and are unsure of the cause, seek medical attention immediately. Treatment works best if given within the hour of when symptoms begin. The sooner you receive treatment, the better your chances are for recovery.
Don’t delay!
February is National Heart Health Month which focuses on raising awareness of heart disease. Join us to inspire and motivate yourself and those you love to make heart health a regular part of your self-care routine. When we support each other, we're more likely to stick with our goals and improve our heart health.
FitPros offers health talks, fitness classes, meditations, and more to help you celebrate Nation Heart Health Month.
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