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Show You Care for Their Heart: Learn Signs of Heart Attack in Women and Men

February 14, 2023



This Valentine’s Day, one way to care for loved ones is to learn the signs and symptoms of a heart attack. According to the American Heart Association, although chest pain is the most common symptom for both women and men, women may also have less obvious warning signs. 


Symptoms of Heart Attack in Women

  • Chest pain, but not always 
  • Pain or pressure in the lower chest or upper abdomen
  • Jaw, neck, or upper back pain
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fainting 
  • Indigestion
  • Extreme Fatigue


Symptoms of Heart Attack in Men

  • Squeezing chest pressure or pain
  • Jaw, neck, or back pain
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Shortness of breath


If you or a loved one are experiencing any of these signs or symptoms: 

  • Dial 911 immediately, follow the operator’s instructions and get to a hospital right away. 
  • Do not allow the person experiencing the symptoms to drive themselves to the hospital. 
  • Whether it is you or a loved one experiencing the symptoms, try to stay as calm as possible and take deep, slow breaths while you wait for the emergency responders. 
     

Women often misread or ignore completely the signs of a heart attack, either because they believe they are relatively healthy, are unaware of their personal risk factors for heart disease, or they may not know that heart disease is the No. 1 killer in women. 
 

Below is a funny and educational video, “Just a Little Heart Attack,” directed by Emmy-nominated actress, Elizabeth Banks, in collaboration with the American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women movement. 
 


Knowing CPR could save a loved one’s life if they experience cardiac arrest, especially since 88% of these events occur at home. But it is important to remember that most heart attacks do not result in cardiac arrest. You can show the people in your life that you care today by talking to them about heart disease and the signs of heart attack. 
 

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