Over 50% heart attack cases in women are silent. In other words, most women are not aware of symptoms of heart attack before it actually strikes. The Canada drugs pharmacy warns seemingly innocuous symptoms like fatigue, toothache, tingling in the hands, and flu-like symptoms can actually be initial symptoms of heart attack. Women are more likely to suffer from the chronic disease without symptoms, which is why they must take additional precautions to treat unrelated warning signs without delay. Older women in post-menopausal age have more risk and should aim to keep blood pressure under control as well as prevent chronic related illnesses including heart attack.
According to the Women’s Heart Foundation, over 400,000 women experience heart attacks every year, out of which 250,000 face death. These figures confirm the fact silent heart attacks may be triggered by classic signs which often go unnoticed because of unrelated symptoms occurring in postmenopausal women. Classic symptoms like excessive sweating, nausea, uneasiness, shortness of breath, and pressure radiating from the chest to other parts of the body including arms are likely to be ignored. Women become more aware of other unrelated symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats.
Women More Likely To Die Of Heart Attack than Men
Women under 55 years of age rarely experience symptoms like chest pain or discomfort after heart attack. Seeking emergency medical help is therefore ignored leading to sudden and often fatal second heart attack. Published findings in the Journal of the American Medical Association about women experiencing heart attack show classic symptoms rarely appear in women making them unaware of seriousness of the situation. For example, while 31% men did not experience chest pain during a heart attack, the percentage increased sharply to 42% in the case of women.
It therefore becomes important for women suffering from associated diseases like diabetes to take extra precautions and notice classic symptoms of heart attack even though they may be less obvious. Family history of heart disease or smoking can be equally damaging and must be considered, especially in women over 55 years of age.
Taking Necessary Precautions Found To Be Best Option
The body has its own way of telling people about general health conditions. It may seem unclear at first, but recurring symptoms become evident under close observation. Women usually suffer a heart attack between 55 and 65 years of age, making reduced estrogen levels the number one reason for cardiovascular disease. The natural source of immunity in women is reduced. Older women may find the erosion more complex leading to several unrelated symptoms affecting them. Recognizing symptoms of heart therefore becomes very difficult.
Experts are of the opinion tackling heart attack triggers is the best solution to prevent recurrent episodes. Lifestyle changes to be incorporated include giving up the smoking habit, indulging in healthy and nutritious diet, and exercising regularly. The Canada drugs pharmacy believes women are more capable of following diet plans. Focus should therefore be on improving lifestyle by exercising regularly.