Heart Attack Symptoms in Women: What Every Woman Should Know
Heart disease remains the No. 1 cause of death for women in the United States, yet many women don’t realize that their heart attack symptoms can look very different from the “classic” signs often seen in men. Because women’s symptoms are frequently subtle – or mistaken for less serious conditions – women sometimes delay seeking care, which can lead to worse outcomes.
Raising awareness is one of the most powerful tools we have. At Carolina Pines Regional Medical Center, our cardiology team is committed to helping women recognize the warning signs early and get the lifesaving care they need.
Why Heart Attack Symptoms Look Different in Women
A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is severely reduced or blocked. While chest pain is still the most common symptom for both men and women, women are more likely to experience additional symptoms that don’t immediately suggest a heart attack.
Women are also more likely to have non‑obstructive coronary artery disease or blockages in the smaller vessels of the heart (coronary microvascular disease), which can produce different patterns of discomfort.
Common Heart Attack Symptoms in Women
According to the American Heart Association, women may experience the following symptoms during a heart attack:
Typical Heart Attack Symptoms
- Chest pain that lasts more than a few minutes or goes away and returns
- Pressure, squeezing, or pain in the center of the chest
Cardiac Symptoms More Common in Women
- Cold sweat or clammy skin
- Indigestion or heartburn-like discomfort
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Neck, jaw, shoulder, upper back, or upper stomach pain
- Shortness of breath, with or without chest discomfort
- Unusual fatigue, sometimes lasting days
These symptoms may appear gradually and can occur while resting or even during sleep.
Commonly Missed or Misinterpreted Symptoms
Many women attribute their symptoms to something less serious – like stress, aging, the flu, or digestive issues. The most frequently overlooked symptoms include:
- Extreme fatigue that seems out of proportion to activity
- Indigestion or stomach pain mistaken for gastrointestinal issues
- Mild chest discomfort rather than sharp pain
- Shortness of breath without chest pain
- Upper back pressure that feels like a rope tightening across the back
Because these symptoms can be vague, women may wait hours or even days before seeking help. This delay can be dangerous.
When to Seek Emergency Care
If you experience any of the symptoms above – especially if they are new, unexplained, or worsening – call 911 immediately. Quick treatment can save heart muscle and save lives.
How Carolina Pines Regional Medical Center Supports Women’s Heart Health
Our cardiology team provides comprehensive care tailored to women, including:
- Advanced diagnostic testing
- Cardiac rehabilitation
- Emergency cardiac care
- Preventive heart health programs
- Treatment for coronary artery disease and microvascular disease
We encourage all women – especially those with risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, or a family history of heart disease – to talk with a healthcare provider about their heart health.
Your Heart Matters
Women’s heart attack symptoms can be subtle, but the danger is real. Knowing what to look for and acting quickly can save your life or the life of someone you love.
Getting Started
If you have concerns about your heart health or want to understand your risk, take a heart risk assessment on our website or schedule an appointment with a Carolina Pines Regional Medical Center cardiology specialist. Attention to your heart today can help ensure more moments, milestones, and memories tomorrow and beyond.