Heart disease is a leading cause of death in women worldwide, often presenting with subtle symptoms like extreme fatigue, nausea, or back pain rather than typical chest pain.
Often called cardiovascular disease, it is a range of conditions that affects the heart’s structure and condition. These include coronary artery disease (CAD), heart muscle or valve issues, heart failure, and abnormal heart rhythms, also known as arrhythmias. CAD affects the flow to the heart, which can lead to a heart attack.
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the No. 1 killer of women globally, causing 1 in 3 deaths each year. According to a report, two out of three women have one or more risk factors for coronary heart disease.
Heart disease is a serious health issue that should not be taken lightly. Failure to provide proper attention can quickly result in death.
As women, we ought to be more cautious regarding the symptoms of heart disease.
Below are some symptoms to look out for.
1. Chest discomfort
It’s the most common sign of heart danger. If you have a blocked artery or are having a heart attack, you may feel pain, tightness, or pressure in your chest.
2. Stomach pain
A painful or burning feeling in your chest, a stomach ache, or indigestion can be a sign of a heart-related problem. Other times, women experience severe abdominal pressure that feels like a heavy weight has been placed on their stomachs. Do not overlook this; get it checked out.
3. Shortness of breath or nausea
If you’re having trouble breathing for no apparent reason, you could be having a heart attack, especially if you’re also having one or more other symptoms.
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4. Sweating
Breaking out in a nervous, cold sweat is common among women who are having a heart attack. It will feel more like stress-related sweating than that which occurs from exercising or spending time outside in the heat. Get yourself checked if you don’t naturally sweat like that and there is no other reason for it, such as heat or hot flashes.
5. Fatigue
Some women who have heart attacks feel extremely tired, even if they’ve been sitting still for a while or haven’t moved much. Most women often complain of tiredness in the chest, saying that they can’t do simple activities, like even walking to the bathroom. This is a very big problem and should be paid attention to.
6. Swelling
Swollen feet, ankles, legs, or abdomen are indicators of heart failure due to fluid buildup.
Risk Factors
- High Cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Sedentary Lifestyle
- High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
- Gestational diabetes
- Smoking
- Menopause
