Heart Attack in Women: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Heart attacks are often portrayed as a man’s health problem, but heart disease is the leading cause of death in women globally. Unfortunately, many women don’t recognise the early signs of a heart attack, which can delay life-saving treatment. Understanding the unique symptoms, causes, and treatment options specific to women is crucial in protecting heart health.
At Healthy Heart Clinic, Dr. Ankit Gupta, a trusted Cardiologist in Jaipur, emphasises the importance of gender-specific awareness when it comes to heart care.
How Heart Attack Symptoms Differ in Women
While chest pain is the most common symptom for both men and women, women are more likely to experience other, subtler signs. These include:
- Unusual fatigue (often for days or weeks)
- Shortness of breath
- Pain in the neck, jaw, shoulders, or upper back
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Cold sweats
- Sleep disturbances
- Indigestion or gas-like pain
Because these symptoms are often mistaken for anxiety, stress, or gastrointestinal issues, many women delay seeking help, increasing the risk of serious damage.
Why Women May Experience Heart Attacks Differently
Several factors contribute to the unique presentation of heart attacks in women:
- Smaller blood vessels: Women tend to have smaller coronary arteries, making blockages more difficult to detect.
- Hormonal differences: Estrogen provides some heart protection before menopause, but risk rises significantly afterward.
- Microvascular disease: Women are more likely to experience issues in the tiny arteries of the heart, which may not be visible on traditional angiograms.
- Psychosocial factors: Depression, anxiety, and chronic stress have a more significant impact on heart health in women.
Common Causes of Heart Attacks in Women
While traditional risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, and obesity apply to both sexes, women may also be affected by:
- Autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Complications during pregnancy (e.g., preeclampsia, gestational diabetes)
- Menopause-related changes
- Emotional stress and trauma
Diagnosing a Heart Attack in Women
Diagnosing heart attacks in women can be more complex due to less obvious symptoms and differences in heart structure. Your doctor may use a combination of:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG)
- Blood tests (to detect heart muscle damage)
- Echocardiogram
- Stress testing
- Coronary angiography
At Healthy Heart Clinic, Dr. Ankit Gupta utilises advanced diagnostic tools to ensure accurate and timely diagnosis, especially in female patients.
Heart Attack Treatment in Women
Prompt treatment is critical. Once a heart attack is diagnosed, the following treatments may be administered:
- Medications like aspirin, blood thinners, beta-blockers, and cholesterol-lowering drugs
- Coronary angioplasty and stenting to restore blood flow
- Coronary artery bypass surgery in severe cases
- Ongoing cardiac rehabilitation for long-term recovery
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms, don’t delay—immediate care can save lives. For personalised Heart Attack Treatment in Jaipur, Dr. Ankit Gupta and his team provide expert care tailored to each patient’s needs.
Preventing Heart Attacks in Women
Prevention is always better than a cure. Women should focus on:
- Regular health check-ups for blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar
- A heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains
- Daily physical activity
- Stress management through yoga, meditation, or counselling
- Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol
- Maintaining a healthy weight
Dr. Ankit Gupta encourages women to be proactive about heart health, especially after age 40 or post-menopause.
Final Thoughts
Heart attacks in women are often silent but deadly. By understanding the unique symptoms and causes, you can take proactive steps toward better heart health. Early detection and prompt treatment make all the difference.
If you’re concerned about your heart or experiencing unexplained symptoms, consult Dr. Ankit Gupta at Healthy Heart Clinic — your trusted Cardiologist in Jaipur — for compassionate, specialised care.
