Heart Attack Symptoms in Women

Heart attacks are the number one killer of women in the United States, yet many women don’t know what a heart attack might feel like. They don’t realize that the symptoms of a heart attack in women are not the same as the symptoms of a heart attack in men. While some women do have the classic “an elephant is sitting on my chest” feeling, others don’t feel any chest pressure at all. Women’s heart attack symptoms can include:  

• Shortness of breath 
• Pain or pressure in the upper back 
• Dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting 
• Pain or pressure in the lower chest or upper abdomen 
• Extreme fatigue 
• Nausea 
• Breaking out in a cold sweat 
• Pain or discomfort in the neck, jaw or arm(s) 
• Chest pain or pressure  

A heart attack blocks blood flow to the heart and can lead to death or permanent damage to the heart. If you suspect that you may be having a heart attack, dial 911 and seek immediate emergency care.