Heart disease is the leading cause of death in both men and women. It is essential to understand the early signs of a heart attack, especially in women.

Studies have shown that women have a higher risk of developing a silent infarction (heart attack) than men. This is why it becomes essential to know the early silent infarction symptoms in females. Here are some of them:.

1. Fatigue and Weakness

One of the most common early signs of a silent infarction in women is fatigue and weakness. This happens as the heart muscles do not receive enough oxygen, and it becomes hard to pump blood.

Women describe feeling more tired than usual and have low energy levels. If you feel sudden weakness, low stamina, or extreme exhaustion without any reason, you should seek immediate medical attention.

2. Unusual Chest Pain

Chest pain is a common symptom of a heart attack in both men and women. Chest pain usually occurs in the center or left side of the chest, but women sometimes have atypical symptoms such as pain in the upper right abdomen or back.

You may feel stabbing pain that comes and goes or persistent chest discomfort that radiates to your back, neck, jaw, and shoulders. If you experience unusual chest pain, you must contact medical professionals or visit the nearest emergency department.

3. Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath is a common symptom of a silent infarction in women. Women often describe feeling like they cannot catch their breath or that they are not getting enough air.

When the heart muscle is weak, the lungs cannot get enough oxygen, and you will experience shortness of breath. If you feel sudden difficulty breathing, rapid breathing, or gasping for air, seek immediate medical attention.

4. Nausea

Nausea or vomiting is another common early sign of a silent infarction in women. Women often describe feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or faint. They may also experience indigestion, feel nauseous or vomit, or have abdominal discomfort.

These symptoms are often confused with flu-like symptoms, but you need to seek medical attention if you experience any of them.

5. Dizziness or Lightheadedness

Dizziness or lightheadedness is a common symptom of a silent infarction in women. It is often accompanied by shortness of breath and fatigue. You may feel faint, unsteady, or dizzy, and this can occur even when sitting or lying down.

If you experience frequent dizziness or lightheadedness, seek immediate medical attention.

6. Sweating

Sweating is a common symptom of a heart attack in women. Women often describe feeling cold sweats instead of clammy or hot sweats. You may feel a sudden onset of cold and clammy skin, even in a warm room, and this may signify a critical medical condition.

If you experience unexplained sweating, you must seek immediate medical attention.

7. Fatigue During Physical Activity

Physical activity causes fatigue in everyone, but women with silent infarction may experience more fatigue than usual. You may find it physically hard to do ordinary tasks or movements that you previously could.

If you experience severe exhaustion and fatigue during physical activity, you must consult with your physician.

8. Sleep Disturbances

A lack of sleep can cause many health problems, including a silent infarction. Women tend to have more sleep disturbances than men and may find it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep.

If you experience persistent sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or chronic sleep apnea, you should consult with a physician for medical assessment.

9. Heart Palpitations

Heart palpitations are a common symptom of a silent infarction in women. You may feel a rapid, fluttering, or pounding heartbeat that makes you feel like your heart is racing or skipping beats.

Palpitations can be accompanied by lightheadedness, shortness of breath, or chest pain. If you experience persistent palpitations or a sudden increase in heart rate, you must seek medical attention right away.

10. Anxiety

Anxiety is a common symptom of a silent infarction in women. Women often describe feeling anxious, restless, or having a sense of impending doom. Anxiety can cause physical symptoms, such as heart palpitations, chest pain, and shortness of breath.

If you experience anxiety that has no apparent cause or is persistent, you must seek medical attention.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, women often have different symptoms than men when it comes to silent infarction. The early signs of a heart attack can be very subtle and often mistaken for flu-like symptoms, stress, or simple fatigue.

If you are experiencing any of the above early signs of a silent infarction, seek medical attention immediately. Early treatment can help prevent severe heart damage and save your life.