Heart attacks are one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Most people believe that heart attacks only happen to older men. However, women are at a greater risk of experiencing a silent heart attack, which can be difficult to diagnose.

What is a Silent Heart Attack?

A silent heart attack is different from a typical heart attack because a person may not experience any symptoms. The lack of symptoms is the reason why it is called a silent heart attack.

In some cases, people who have a silent heart attack may not realize that they have had a heart attack until much later.

Signs and Symptoms of a Silent Heart Attack

Because there may not be any symptoms, it can be challenging to determine if a person has experienced a silent heart attack. However, some individuals may exhibit symptoms such as:.

Mild discomfort or pain in the jaw, arm, or back
Shortness of breath
Fatigue
Indigestion or nausea

Unfortunately, these symptoms are not always recognized as indicative of a heart attack, which results in many silent heart attacks being undiagnosed.

Why are Women at Greater Risk?

Women are at a greater risk for silent heart attacks than men, and there are several reasons why. Firstly, women’s heart attack symptoms can be different from those experienced by men, leading to misdiagnosis or a lack of diagnosis.

Secondly, women are more likely to have heart disease caused by types of plaque that do not block arteries but build up within the artery walls. This condition is called non-obstructive coronary artery disease and can result in a silent heart attack.

Thirdly, women’s heart attack symptoms are not always taken seriously and are sometimes attributed to less severe conditions such as acid reflux or anxiety.

How Can Women Reduce Their Risk?

Women can reduce their risk of developing heart disease and experiencing a silent heart attack by adopting healthy habits, including:.

Eating a balanced diet
Exercising regularly
Maintaining a healthy weight
Not smoking or vaping
Managing stress
Controlling high blood pressure and high cholesterol

It is also important to pay close attention to symptoms, even if they seem minor. Making lifestyle changes early can prevent heart disease and significantly reduce the risk of a heart attack.

Conclusion

Women are at a greater risk for silent heart attacks than men. Recognizing the symptoms of a silent heart attack can be challenging, and women may experience different symptoms than men.

It is crucial for women to take steps to reduce their risk of developing heart disease and to seek medical attention if they experience any symptoms. By adopting a healthy lifestyle and monitoring symptoms closely, women can significantly reduce their risk of experiencing a silent heart attack.