Thousands of women suffer from a heart attack every year. According to the CDC, heart attack is the leading cause of death for women in the US. However, it is also preventable.

Angiogram that is a gold standard test for finding blockages is generally not effective for women. Heart attacks are usually caused by blockages in the small arteries in women. These are not clearly visible during an angiogram. That’s why even if you are given a green signal after an angiogram, you may still get a heart attack.

The best way to remain aware of an imminent heart attack is to look out for symptoms. Here are three main symptoms that indicate an imminent heart attack in women.

1. Feeling fatigued

Do you feel fatigued after performing simple tasks such as making a bed? If so, it may be due to a heart problem. New or dramatic fatigue and feeling of a ‘heavy chest’ is an indication of a heart attack. If you constantly feel worn out or fatigued, you should consider seeing a cardiologist for a heart checkup.

2. Body Pain

A pain in the back, neck, or jaw is another indication of a heart trouble. This is particularly the case when no other joint or muscle aches when you experience the pain. The discomfort tends to worsen when carrying out a physical activity. In addition, the pain can start in the chest and spread backward. This pain can also be in either arm. All of these are indications of a heart trouble.

3. Sweating and Shortness of Breath

Sweating or shortness of breath is another sign of an imminent heart attack. The symptom generally occurs after a physical exercise and is generally accompanied by chest pain or fatigue. It can also occur when lying down and stops when you sit up.

The above are the three main symptoms of a heart attack in women. Other symptoms identified by researchers that women may experience before a heart attack include the following:

  • Sleep disturbance
  • Indigestion
  • Anxiety
  • Racing heart
  • Heavy arms
  • Weakness
  • Cold sweat
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness

Conclusion

Becoming aware of the symptoms is important to reduce the risk of a serious heart attack. You should consider getting CPR First aid training if anyone in your family suffers from a heart disease. CPR training will allow you to provide immediate assistance to a heart attack victim. It will allow you to know the emergency protocols that can help save the life of the victim.

With knowledge about CPR, you can also recognize the symptoms of a heart attack. You don’t need to be a healthcare professional to get CPR training. Anyone can get a CPR and first aid training. Getting the training will ensure that you play your part as a responsible member of society.