Most people think of heart attacks as a condition that only affects men. But in reality, heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States.

According to the American Heart Association, one in three women die from heart disease each year. The reason for these staggering statistics is that heart attacks in women often present with symptoms that are different than those seen in men. This can make it difficult for women to recognize when they are having a heart attack.

Here are six signs of heart attack in women that you can’t ignore:.

Chest Pain or Pressure

Chest pain or pressure is the most common symptom of a heart attack in both men and women.

But women are more likely to have “atypical” chest pain, meaning that the pain is not always severe, and it may not feel like the “typical” crushing pain that men experience. Women may describe the feeling as a pressure, tightness, or burning sensation in the chest. The pain may also radiate to the neck, jaw, shoulder, back, or arm.

If you experience any chest pain or discomfort, it’s important to seek medical attention right away.

Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath is another common symptom of a heart attack in women. Women may feel like they are having trouble catching their breath or that they can’t get enough air.

This can happen with or without chest pain, and it may occur with physical activity or at rest. Shortness of breath can also be a sign of other medical conditions, so it’s important to see your doctor if you experience this symptom.

Nausea or Vomiting

Nausea or vomiting can be a sign of many different medical conditions, but it can also be a symptom of a heart attack in women.

Women may feel like they have the flu or food poisoning, and they may experience abdominal pain or discomfort in addition to nausea or vomiting. It’s important to pay attention to these symptoms and seek medical attention if they occur in combination with other heart attack symptoms.

Back Pain

Back pain can be a symptom of a heart attack in women, especially if the pain is in the upper back between the shoulder blades.

Women may also experience pain or discomfort in the lower back, and this can be accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or nausea. If you experience back pain that is unusual or accompanied by other symptoms, seek medical attention right away.

Jaw Pain

Jaw pain is one of the “weird” symptoms that women may experience during a heart attack. The pain may be in the jaw, neck, or throat, and it may come and go.

Women may also experience discomfort or pressure in the back of the throat or the upper chest. If you experience jaw pain or discomfort, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention right away.

Unexplained Fatigue or Weakness

Unexplained fatigue or weakness can be a sign of many different medical conditions, but it can also be a symptom of a heart attack in women.

Women may feel like they have the flu or that they are just “run down.” They may also experience a lack of energy or weakness that is not relieved by rest. If you experience unexplained fatigue or weakness, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Conclusion

Heart attack symptoms in women can be different than those seen in men, and they may not always be obvious. If you experience any of the symptoms described above, seek medical attention right away.

Remember, early treatment is crucial for survival and recovery from a heart attack.