What are the common warning signs of a heart attack, and how do they differ for women?
Chest discomfort is the most common symptom of a heart attack for both women and men. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. Other symptoms may include: discomfort in other areas of the upper body (one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach); shortness of breath, with or without chest discomfort; anxiety; lightheadedness; sweating; and nausea or vomiting. Research by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) indicates that women often experience new or different physical symptoms as long as a month or more before experiencing heart attacks. According to the NIH, symptoms most commonly reported by women prior to a heart attack included: unusual fatigue, sleep disturbances, shortness of breath, indigestion and anxiety. Symptoms commonly reported by women during a heart attack included: shortness of breath, weakness, unusual fatigue and sweating. You should seek help immediately if you thin
