Heart attacks have long been associated with men, but the truth is that heart disease and its most severe manifestation, a heart attack, are not gender-specific.

In fact, heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the US, with 1 in every 5 women dying from heart disease. Despite this alarming statistic, many women still don’t fully understand the risk factors and signs of a heart attack.

This article will discuss why heart attacks in women are often referred to as the silent killer and explore ways to identify and prevent heart disease.

What Is a Heart Attack?

A heart attack, or myocardial infarction, occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, usually by a blood clot. This deprives the heart muscle of oxygen and can cause it to become damaged or die.

The severity of a heart attack depends on the length of time the heart muscle goes without oxygen and the location of the blockage.

Why Are Heart Attacks in Women Often Overlooked?

Heart attacks in women are often referred to as the silent killer because women tend to experience different symptoms than men.

While chest pain is a common symptom for both genders, women may experience additional symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, and back or jaw pain. These symptoms can be vague and easily attributed to other conditions, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment.

Another reason heart attacks in women are overlooked is that women are more likely to have what’s known as a “non-obstructed” heart attack. Unlike men, women may experience muscle spasms in the arteries rather than a blockage.

This type of heart attack can go undetected on traditional tests like an electrocardiogram (ECG) and may require additional testing to identify.

What Are the Risk Factors for Heart Attacks in Women?

Like men, certain risk factors can increase a woman’s likelihood of experiencing a heart attack. These risk factors include:.

High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Diabetes
Obesity
Lack of physical activity
Smoking
Stress
Family history of heart disease

How Can Women Reduce Their Risk of Heart Attacks?

The good news is that women can take steps to reduce their risk of heart attacks. Here are some tips:.

Quit smoking
Exercise regularly
Eat a heart-healthy diet, including plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats
Maintain a healthy weight
Manage stress through relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation
Monitor and control any existing health conditions, like high blood pressure or diabetes
Know and understand the symptoms of a heart attack and seek immediate medical attention if necessary

The Bottom Line

Heart attacks in women are a serious health concern. Women may experience different symptoms than men, making it important to understand and recognize the signs of a heart attack.

The good news is that women can take steps to reduce their risk of heart disease and decrease the likelihood of experiencing a heart attack. By making healthy choices and seeking regular medical attention, women can avoid becoming another statistic in the fight against heart disease.