Symptoms Of Heart Blockage In Females.Heart disease is a leading cause of death in women, and understanding the signs and symptoms can be crucial for timely intervention. Women may sometimes experience symptoms that are different from men. Here are some of the symptoms of heart blockage, or coronary artery disease (CAD), specifically in females:
Symptoms Of Heart Blockage In Females
- Chest Pain or Discomfort: This is the most common symptom in both men and women. Women may describe it as sharp, burning, or even as pressure. The pain can be mild to severe and might not necessarily be located directly over the heart. It can be felt under the breastbone, but also in the neck, jaw, throat, upper abdomen, or back.
- Shortness of Breath: This can occur with or without chest pain. It’s the sensation that it’s hard to breathe or catch one’s breath.
- Nausea or Vomiting: Women are more likely to report this symptom compared to men.
- Sweating: Breaking out in a cold sweat for no apparent reason can be a sign of heart trouble.
- Lightheadedness or Dizziness: Feeling dizzy or lightheaded can sometimes be related to heart problems.
- Unusual Fatigue: Sudden and severe fatigue or fatigue that increases over time, even if it’s not associated with physical activity, can be a sign. Some women have described it as feeling “worn out” or having flu-like symptoms.
- Sleep Disturbances: Trouble sleeping or feeling the need to sleep more than usual can be a sign.
- Indigestion or Gas-like Pain: Some women experience what they describe as an upset stomach or a feeling similar to acid reflux.
- Upper Back, Shoulder, or Throat Pain: Unlike men, who often experience pain in the arms, women might feel discomfort in the back, either shoulder, or even in the throat.
- Jaw Pain: This can be mistaken for TMJ problems, but can be a symptom of CAD.
- Heart Palpitations: Feeling like your heart is fluttering, beating too hard or fast, or skipping beats.
It’s crucial to understand that women may not experience all these symptoms, and some might not experience any obvious symptoms at all. In some cases, the first sign might be a heart attack. Therefore, it’s essential for women to be aware of their risk factors for heart disease and discuss any concerns with their healthcare providers.
Moreover, some women may dismiss their symptoms, attributing them to other conditions or to aging. It’s crucial not to ignore or downplay symptoms. If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, especially if they are sudden or severe, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.