Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States, killing 310,661 women in 2021 — or about one in every five female deaths.

While the common perception of a heart attack often revolves around chest pains, recent studies have shed light on the fact that women may experience a broader range of symptoms. This is why women are more likely to die of a heart attack than men – without the classic symptoms like chest pains it is much harder to identify the problem and start treatment.

Understanding heart attacks

A heart attack occurs when the blood flow to the heart is blocked. The blockage is most often a buildup of fat, cholesterol, and other substances, which form a plaque in the arteries that feed the heart.

While treatment options have improved significantly, it is crucial to recognize that women may present symptoms different from the classic chest pains associated with heart attacks, making early identification and intervention more challenging.

Symptoms of a heart attack in women

According to the VIRGO (Variation in Recovery: Role of Gender on Outcomes) study, the majority of women presented with some chest pains. However, 61% of women showed other signs of pain or discomfort, such as:

  • Pain in the jaw, neck, arms, or between the shoulder blades.
  • Fatigue and weakness that may last for days
  • Shortness of breath (with or without chest discomfort)
  • Dizziness, nausea, lightheadedness, vomiting
  • Fainting
  • Cold sweats
  • Malaise
  • Upper back pressure

The problem with presenting with non-chest-related pain is that a heart attack can be misdiagnosed. If you are noticing any of these symptoms, it’s best to go to straight to the hospital or dial 911 for assistance. If you are making your own way to the emergency room, have someone drive you. Only in the most dire of circumstances should you attempt to drive yourself.

Reducing the risk

To lower your chances of getting heart disease, the CDC recommends paying attention to the following:

  • Know and keep track of your blood pressure. High blood pressure has no symptoms, so it’s important to have your blood pressure checked regularly.
  • Talk to your doctor or health care team about whether you should be tested for diabetes. Having uncontrolled diabetes raises your risk of heart disease.
  • Quit smoking. 
  • Discuss checking your blood cholesterol and triglycerides with your doctor.
  • Keep an eye on your weight. Obesity raises your risk of heart disease.
  • Limit how much alcohol you drink.
  • Manage stress levels by finding healthy ways to cope with stress. Exercise is recommended.

See Also: 9 reasons for chest pain that aren’t a heart attack

Article updated on February 5, 2024.