When a doctor makes a mistake, it can result in a serious health problem or even death.

A warning to women about heart attack symptoms

On Behalf of | Dec 25, 2017 | Uncategorized |

Heart disease is a serious problem that takes the lives of far too many people across the country each year. Stress, lack of exercise, unhealthy eating habits and genetics are just some of the factors that can cause people to suffer a heart attack. Since a heart attack can be a life-threatening and time-sensitive emergency, it is crucial that doctors diagnose and treat heart problems as soon as possible. It is also important for Washington residents to understand the symptoms of a heart attack.

For women, recognizing a possible heart attack may not always be easy. Many people are aware of the common heart attack symptoms, which can include crushing chest pain, pain or discomfort that radiates to the extremities, stomach pain, sweating, nausea and heart palpitations. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of an impending heart attack might also include anxiety or lightheadedness.

The American Heart Association cautions that heart attack symptoms may be more subtle and difficult for women to recognize as a serious problem. During a heart attack, a woman might not have heavy chest pain, but could instead have pain in her back or abdominal area. She may or may not have shortness of breath, dizziness or fatigue. She might have numerous symptoms or hardly any symptoms at all. In fact, many women initially disregard the symptoms of a heart attack as the flu, acid reflux or just a normal part of aging.

Despite symptoms that may be vague, nonexistent or seem like a different problem, heart disease is the top killer of women in America. Understanding the signs of a potentially life-threatening incident may lead to faster and more accurate treatment.