Heart Disease Dangers for Women

Heart disease is the main cause of death for women, causing four out of every ten deaths. If you are a woman you are eight times more likely to die from heart disease and stroke than from breast cancer. More women pass away from heart disease than from all types of cancer combined. Roughly as many women die from heart disease and stroke each year as men.

• Women may be more likely to experience uncharacteristic warning signs such as indistinct chest discomfort

• Some risk factors such as hormones and diabetes can considerably add to the risk of heart attack amongst women.

• Some diagnostic tests and treatments for heart attack may not work as well on women.

• In the past, heart disease among women was not treated as aggressively as men and fewer women were referred for treatments such as bypass surgery and balloon angioplasty following a heart attack.

Recognize the warning signs and take action fast!  Learn the indication of heart disease. Learn the signs of heart attack. They are different.

Early Warning Signs of Heart Disease in Women Include:

• Pain or discomfort in the chest that comes on with physical activity and goes away with rest

• Shortness of breath, breathlessness, or unusual tiredness with physical activity

• Physical activities that used to be easy or normal have become difficult

If you experience any of these feelings, seek medical advice.

Warning Signs of Heart Attack in Women

• Vague chest tightness, discomfort, pain or a crushing radiating chest pain

• Heaviness, pressure, squeezing, fullness, burning or pain that may begin in the center of the chest and spread to the neck, jaws, and shoulder

• Unusual pain that spreads down one or both arms

• Shortness of breath, paleness, sweating or weakness

• Nausea, vomiting and/or indigestion • Feelings of extreme anxiety, fear and/or denial

If you experience any of these feelings, tell someone right away or call for emergency help.

The Author:

James Hunt has 15 years as a professional writer and researcher covering stories that cover a whole spectrum of interest.

Photo. Victoria Art