Women at Risk: Understanding Heart Attacks and Their Symptoms

Women are increasingly affected by heart attacks, yet many remain unaware of their risks. Lori Sepich, a 64-year-old from Memphis, Tennessee, experienced two heart attacks 13 years apart. Despite her history of severe high blood pressure and smoking, the possibility of a heart attack “just wasn’t registering” with her. Sepich’s experience highlights the broader issue: over 60 million women in the United States live with cardiovascular disease, which includes heart disease, stroke, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation. Alarmingly, cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death for women, with approximately 37,000 women succumbing to heart attacks each year.

Understanding the risks associated with heart disease is vital. Dr. Sharonne Hayes, a cardiologist at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, emphasizes that awareness is key. “Knowing what to do if you have symptoms of a heart attack and taking action if you do is really important.”

Preventive Measures to Reduce Risk

Reducing the risk of heart attacks involves proactive measures. The American Heart Association has developed a list known as “Life’s Essential 8,” which includes recommendations such as eating a balanced diet, quitting tobacco, engaging in regular physical activity, and managing blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, and blood sugar levels.

Dr. Stacey Rosen, president of the American Heart Association, encourages regular health checkups to discuss these preventive measures and assess any family history of heart disease. Specific risk factors that disproportionately affect women should also be considered. Conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and depression are more prevalent in women and can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Additionally, complications during pregnancy, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, as well as menopause symptoms, can contribute to heightened heart disease risk.

Recognizing Heart Attack Symptoms

Heart attacks often do not present as dramatic events, contrary to popular portrayals in media. Many assume that a heart attack manifests as a sudden clutching of the chest, but in reality, symptoms can vary significantly, especially between genders. While chest pain is common, women often experience a broader array of symptoms.

According to Dr. Rosen, women are more likely than men to report symptoms such as back pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, nausea, and even jaw pain. These symptoms can emerge more subtly, which may lead to delays in seeking medical help. “I got the symptom and it waxed and waned a little bit over time, but I knew something wasn’t right,” is a sentiment often echoed by patients, as noted by Dr. Hayes.

Immediate action is crucial when a heart attack is suspected. Dr. Rosen advises calling emergency services if there is any doubt about experiencing a heart attack. “It’s better to err on the side of over-concern than to minimize something that could be quite serious,” she states. Prompt transportation by ambulance ensures that patients receive appropriate care in a timely manner, as delays can lead to more significant damage.

Lori Sepich’s first heart attack was marked by denial. She ignored severe chest pressure, nausea, and pain radiating down her arms because she “was absolutely in shock.” After attending Easter Mass and returning to work, she ultimately went to the emergency room, where she received six stents and spent a week hospitalized. Her second heart attack prompted a quicker response and led to the placement of another stent after discovering a nearly complete blockage in a major artery.

Since then, Sepich has made significant lifestyle changes. She maintains her blood pressure, abstains from smoking, and exercises regularly. Her experience serves as a cautionary tale for others: “I could justify my actions from denial… Well, it does hurt you. It can kill you.”

Awareness and education about the risks and symptoms of heart disease are essential for women. The statistics are sobering, but with proper knowledge, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their heart health.