Many women report symptoms like unusual fatigue, sleep issues, and anxiety for weeks before a heart attack. After menopause, risk increases due to the drop in estrogen.
Common early symptoms:
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Unusual fatigue lasting several days or sudden severe fatigue
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Sleep disturbances like restlessness or waking frequently
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Anxiety or a sense of impending doom
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Lightheadedness or dizziness
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Shortness of breath, with or without chest discomfort
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Indigestion, nausea, or gas-like pain
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Cold sweats or clammy skin
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Pain in the jaw, neck, back, shoulders, or stomach
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Pressure or discomfort in the chest, often described as fullness or tightness
Silent heart attacks may cause subtle symptoms like:
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Mild chest, arm, or jaw discomfort
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Shortness of breath
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Fatigue or difficulty with normal activity
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Abdominal pain or heartburn
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Clammy skin
What to do: If you experience any of these symptoms and they feel unusual for you, seek emergency care. Don’t ignore persistent symptoms, and if in doubt, get a second medical opinion. Schedule regular checkups and be aware of your personal risk factors.
