Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men, women, and people of most racial and ethnic groups in the United States.
While most women are aware of their risk for breast cancer, many don’t realize a larger threat is beating inside their chests - heart disease. Heart disease is the number one killer of American women, killing more women than all cancers combined. In fact, more women die of heart disease each year than men.
Heart attack symptoms in women do not present the same as they do in men - and they aren’t always obvious. For example, not all women experience chest pain or discomfort.
Sometimes, the only symptoms present are:
Many women may just experience a cold sweat and dizziness.
These variations in symptoms are why heart attacks can be difficult to diagnose in women. If you think you may be having a heart attack, don't dismiss your instincts. Seek prompt medical attention immediately!