ADVERTISEMENT
Silent Heart Attack: A Real Risk
An asymptomatic heart attack occurs without chest pain or with symptoms so mild that they go unnoticed. It is more common in women and people with diabetes and is usually only detected by tests such as an electrocardiogram.
Why are the symptoms different?
Women tend to have blockages in smaller arteries, which alters how the body reacts to a heart attack. Additionally, hormonal factors, such as menopause, increase cardiovascular risk and can mask classic symptoms.
Heart Attack Risk Factors in Women
Hypertension
Type 2 Diabetes
High Cholesterol
Sedentary Lifestyle
Smoking
Long-Term Use of Hormonal Contraceptives
Chronic Stress
Family History of Heart Disease
What to Do if You Suspect Something
If you or someone close to you has one or more of these symptoms:
Call SAMU (192) immediately
Clearly report the symptoms
Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen
Avoid physical exertion and keep the person at rest.
If possible, administer aspirin (under medical supervision).
Prompt care can save lives and reduce serious consequences.
Frequently Asked Questions: Heart Attack in Women: Symptoms, Prevention, and Care
1. What are the main symptoms of a heart attack in women?
Symptoms may include:
Chest pain or pressure (not always severe)
Pain in the neck, jaw, back, or shoulders
Shortness of breath
Nausea, vomiting, or indigestion
Extreme fatigue
Cold sweats
Dizziness or fainting
2. Can a heart attack occur in women without chest pain?
Yes. Many women suffer asymptomatic heart attacks, without the typical chest pain. Signs can be subtle, such as severe fatigue or malaise.
3. Why are heart attack symptoms different in women?
Women tend to have blockages in the smaller vessels of the heart, which alters the manifestation of symptoms. Hormonal factors also play a role.
4. What factors increase the risk of heart attack in women?
Hypertension
Diabetes
High cholesterol
Smoking
Sedentary lifestyle
Chronic stress
Family history
Menopause
5. How do I know if I’m having a heart attack?
If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, cold sweats, dizziness, or unusual pain in other parts of your body, seek medical attention immediately. Call SAMU (192).
6. What should I do if I suspect I’m having a heart attack?
Call emergency services.
Keep the person at rest.
Avoid giving food or drinks.
If directed by a doctor, give aspirin.
7. How can I prevent a heart attack?
Maintain a healthy diet.
Exercise regularly.
Monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar.
Avoid smoking.
Manage stress.
Get regular checkups.
8. Can young women also suffer heart attacks?
Yes. Although less common, heart attacks can occur in young women, especially if there are risk factors such as smoking, hormonal contraceptive use, or a family history.
9. Is there a test to detect a silent heart attack?
Yes. Tests such as an electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, and stress test can identify cardiac changes even without obvious symptoms.
Heart attacks in women can be silent, subtle, and easily missed. Knowing the specific symptoms and acting quickly is crucial to ensuring effective care and saving lives. If you have risk factors, keep up with your checkups and see your cardiologist regularly.
ADVERTISEMENT
