You might think you know what a heart attack looks like--you clutch your chest in pain and fall to the ground. But heart attacks don’t always stick to this script--especially in women.
Here’s a look at some of the different heart attack symptoms in men and women.
In Women
Women are more likely to have atypical and subtle symptoms during a heart attack, including:
- Fatigue: You may feel tired for days without a clear reason.
- Dull pain: While chest pain is the most common sign, you may feel pain or discomfort in your neck, back, jaw, or stomach.
- Nausea: You may vomit or feel sick to your stomach.
- Shortness of breath: You may have a hard time breathing, even when sitting down.
In Men
Men are more likely to experience the typical symptoms we associate with heart attacks, including:
- Severe chest pain: You may feel like someone is squeezing your heart or like you have a large weight on your chest.
- Shooting pain: You may feel a pain shooting down your left arm.
- Cold sweat: You may break out in a cold sweat.
Whether you’re a man or a woman, if you suspect you might be having a heart attack, dial 911. Every second counts.
Heart Attack Care
WCHN hospitals are certified Primary Angioplasty Centers. All patients suspected of having a heart attack are evaluated on the spot, either by EMS or the emergency physician. Find out more about our life-saving emergency care.