Know the Symptoms to Save a Life
Heart attacks don’t always look like the dramatic chest-clutching scenes we see on TV. In reality, symptoms can vary significantly between men and women, leading to dangerous delays in seeking medical attention. Understanding these differences can save a life.
Heart Attack Symptoms in Men vs. Women
While chest pain is the most common symptom for both men and women, the way a heart attack presents can differ.
Common symptoms in men include:
- Classic chest pain (pressure, tightness, or squeezing in the chest)
- Pain radiating to the left arm, neck, jaw and even upper belly
- Shortness of breath
- Cold sweats
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fatigue
- Heartburn or indigestion
- Nausea
Men typically experience the "classic" heart attack symptoms and are more likely to recognize them as heart-related.
Women on the other hand may experience:
- Anxiety
- Shortness of breath even without exertion
- Nausea, upset stomach, and even vomiting
- Pain in the shoulder, back, or arm
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
Women often experience these more subtle symptoms, leading to misdiagnosis or delayed treatment. Many mistake their symptoms for acid reflux, stress, or the flu.
When to Seek Help
Call 911 immediately if you or someone else experiences:
- Chest pain or discomfort lasting more than a few minutes or that comes and goes
- Unexplained shortness of breath
- Sudden nausea, dizziness, or cold sweats
- Pain spreading to the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back
Don’t wait! Time is critical during a heart attack. Quick medical intervention can prevent severe heart damage or even save a life.
Why Awareness Matters
Women are less likely to seek emergency care because their symptoms don’t always fit the “typical” heart attack profile. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women, yet women’s symptoms often go unnoticed. Educate yourself as knowing these differences can help you or a loved one recognize a heart attack early and get the necessary care.
Take Action for Heart Health
It is important to partner with your doctor for preventative care to help prevent heart attacks and improve your quality of life.
- Know your risk factors (high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, family history).
- Maintain a heart-healthy diet and exercise regularly.
- Listen to your body—if something feels off, get it checked.
By understanding how heart attack symptoms differ between men and women, we can all be better prepared to recognize the warning signs and take action when it matters most.
It is always important to have confidence in a medical team who supports you. If you are working toward better health, our team at Healthstar Physicians Premier Medical wants to be on your team. Our medical team specializes in obesity medicine, osteopathic medicine, family medicine, and podiatry. We are taking new patients at our two offices in Newport and our Sevierville office. And we accept most forms of insurance. To make an appointment in one of our Newport offices or our Sevierville office, please contact us.
