Women and men often experience different heart attack symptoms. Considering heart disease is the leading cause of death for American women, these signs should always be taken seriously and checked out immediately by a doctor. Here are a few problems that could indicate trouble so that you know when to seek medical help.

A Brief Guide to Heart Attack Symptoms in Women

1. Pain in Areas Other Than the Chest

While chest pain is the most common warning sign among all genders, women are more likely to experience aches in other areas of the body, such as the arm, back, jaw, neck, or stomach. They may or may not be accompanied by chest discomfort.

Pain can come on gradually or suddenly. Sometimes, it can even be so intense as to wake you from a deep sleep. This pain level should never be ignored, so get to a doctor as soon as possible to find the cause.

2. Extreme Fatigue

Many women feel extremely tired during a heart attack. Even if they've been inactive or have gotten a good night's sleep the night before, the reduction in blood flow can drain energy levels.

The fatigue can feel centered in the chest. Also, simple tasks, like getting out of a chair or walking to another room, can feel impossible to accomplish.

3. Shortness of Breath

One of the heart's most important jobs is getting oxygen from your lungs. If blood isn't pumping at full capacity, the organ can't pull the oxygen it needs from the lungs. As such, it becomes much harder to breathe. This symptom feels similar to the shortness of breath one can feel during intense exercise and could come with nausea, dizziness, or lightheadedness. If it doesn't resolve within a minute or two, it warrants a trip to the doctor.

The doctors at Walton Family Medicine will help you on the road to heart attack recovery. Serving Monroe, GA, they offer comprehensive medical care. From cardiology and urgent care to routine exams and preventative medicine, their providers are dedicated to your health, comfort, and safety. Call (770) 267-7093 to schedule an appointment, and visit them online to browse their services.