A recent study has identified five warning signs that may precede a heart attack by a month. Experts have cautioned that women could be at risk of missing these crucial symptoms, potentially increasing their chances of fatal outcomes.
Although chest pain is a well-known indicator of heart problems, other less familiar red flags could be easily overlooked, leading individuals to delay seeking necessary medical help.
For instance, a study published in the journal Circulation revealed that many women reported experiencing indigestion in the month leading up to their heart attack. Despite not typically occurring during the heart attack itself, about 39% of the female participants in the study described feeling discomfort beforehand.
Indigestion is defined by the NHS as pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen (dyspepsia) or a burning sensation behind the breastbone (heartburn). The research aimed to provide a detailed understanding of coronary heart disease symptoms in women, shedding light on these critical warning signs.
Researchers highlighted that the current perception of ‘typical’ cardiac symptoms is predominantly based on the experiences of white, middle-aged men. This limited viewpoint can lead to misunderstandings among healthcare providers and the general public, resulting in misdiagnoses and causing delays in women seeking appropriate treatment.
Previous studies have shown that a significant majority of women, ranging from 85% to 90%, reported experiencing multiple symptoms before a heart attack. The identified symptoms experienced by women in the month leading up to a heart attack are as follows:
– Unusual fatigue
– Insomnia
– Anxiety
– Shortness of breath
– Indigestion
According to the British Heart Foundation (BHF), women are 50% more likely to be misdiagnosed with heart issues compared to men. To lower the risk of a heart attack, BHF recommends:
– Eating a balanced diet
– Engaging in regular physical activity
– Maintaining a healthy weight
– Avoiding smoking
– Limiting alcohol intake
If you suspect that you or someone you know is having a heart attack, call 999 or go to the nearest A&E immediately.