A recent study identified five warning signs that may manifest a month before a heart attack. Health experts cautioned that women might overlook these crucial symptoms, potentially raising their risk of fatality from a heart attack.
While chest pain is widely recognized as a typical indicator of heart problems, there are other lesser-known red flags that could be easily dismissed or mistaken for something else, leading to delays in seeking necessary medical care.
For instance, a study published in the journal Circulation revealed that many women reported experiencing indigestion in the month leading up to their heart attack. Although indigestion was not commonly present during the heart attack itself, about 39% of the female participants in the study noted feeling discomfort beforehand.
Indigestion, as described by the NHS, involves pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen (dyspepsia) or a burning sensation behind the breastbone (heartburn). The study aimed to offer a detailed overview of coronary heart disease symptoms in women to improve recognition of these critical warning signs.
Researchers highlighted that the current understanding of “typical” cardiac symptoms is predominantly based on the experiences of white, middle-aged men. This limited perspective can lead to misconceptions among healthcare providers and the public, resulting in misdiagnoses and causing women to delay seeking appropriate treatment.
Previous research indicated that 85 to 90% of women reported experiencing multiple symptoms before a heart attack. The study listed the following symptoms reported by women in the month leading up to a heart attack:
– Unusual fatigue
– Sleep disturbances
– Shortness of breath
– Indigestion
– Anxiety
The British Heart Foundation (BHF) stated that women are 50% more likely than men to receive an incorrect diagnosis of heart issues. To reduce the risk of a heart attack, BHF recommends:
– Eating a healthy diet
– Regular physical activity
– Maintaining a healthy weight
– Avoiding smoking
If you suspect that you or someone you know is having a heart attack, it is crucial to call 999 or visit the nearest A&E immediately.
