What are the unusual symptoms of heart disease in women?
Heart
disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. According to the World Health
Organization, about 19.8 million people died from cardiovascular disease in
2022, accounting for 32 percent of all deaths.
It is
generally believed that this disease affects men more, but the fact is that
more than 60 million women in the United States suffer from some form of heart
disease. It is also the leading cause of death in women.
Symptoms in
women are different from those in men, so it is important to recognize them.
Here are 6 unusual symptoms.
1. Unexplained
fatigue
Persistent
fatigue that doesn't go away even after rest can be a sign of heart disease.
It's caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle and usually precedes a
major heart attack.
2. Jaw or
neck pain
Pain in the
jaw, neck, or shoulders is often mistaken for a dental or stress problem, but
it can also indicate pressure on the heart. This pain usually occurs during
stress or physical exertion.
3. Shortness
of breath
Sudden
shortness of breath, especially when lying down or without exertion, is a sign
of heart failure. This is caused by fluid buildup in the lungs and requires
immediate treatment with an ECG.
4. Nausea or
indigestion
Recurrent
nausea, vomiting, or stomach upset can be linked to heart disease. This is
caused by decreased blood flow due to a weak pumping action of the heart.
5. Swelling
in the hands or feet
Swelling in
the ankles or feet, called edema, is a sign of fluid retention due to a weak
pumping action of the heart. It is more noticeable later in the day.
6. Unusual
sweating or dizziness
Sudden onset
of cold sweats or dizziness can be a sign of heart disease, as low blood
pressure affects the brain.
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