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Heart disease ranks among the top causes of death globally. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that nearly 19.8 million people died from cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in 2022, making up 32% of all deaths worldwide. Out of these fatalities, 85% were related to heart attacks and strokes. Many people think that heart disease affects men more than women, but this is not accurate. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 60 million women, or 44%, in the United States are affected by some type of heart disease. It is also the primary cause of death for women in the U.S. Heart disease encompasses several problems that can harm your heart. The Cleveland Clinic identifies coronary artery disease (CAD) as the most prevalent form of heart disease. Additionally, heart disease can impact the heart muscle, valves, or electrical system. Being aware of the signs and symptoms of heart disease can empower you to take action to safeguard your heart and overall health. Symptoms in women can differ from the typical chest pain that men experience. Recognizing these signs can facilitate better treatment and improve outcomes. Here are some less typical signs of heart disease in women.

Here are the Symptoms:

Unexplained Tiredness: Ongoing and unaccountable fatigue is one of the top unusual indicators of heart disease in women. Unlike regular tiredness from daily life, this fatigue often does not go away after resting. This might indicate decreased blood flow to the heart muscle. Women may feel excessively tired during normal activities like climbing stairs or shopping, as their hearts may have difficulty pumping properly. This symptom usually appears weeks before a significant heart incident.

Pain in the Jaw or Neck: If you feel pain that radiates to your jaw, neck, or even shoulders, it could signal heart disease. Many people attribute this discomfort to dental issues or stress, but it might actually point to heart strain in women. It can feel like a dull ache or pressure, caused by nerve signals sent from the heart to these regions. This discomfort often arises during stress or physical activity and eases with rest. However, neglecting it can raise the risk of coronary artery disease.

Difficulty Breathing: Unexpected breathlessness, particularly when lying down or with no physical activity, can be a serious warning sign of heart disease in women. When the heart isn't working efficiently, fluid can accumulate in the lungs, mimicking symptoms of asthma or anxiety. Women may find that it gets worse at night. This symptom is associated with advanced heart failure when the heart's pumping ability weakens. It’s advisable to have an ECG and speak with your doctor.

Nausea or Indigestion: Regular feelings of nausea, vomiting, or feelings like indigestion can indicate heart problems. Issues with digestion can be caused by irritation of the vagus nerve related to the heart. Many women often feel pressure in the upper abdomen or gas pains, which they usually attribute to acid reflux or digestive troubles. This occurs because a lower output from the heart affects blood flow in the digestive system, which increases during heart attacks.

Swelling in Hands, Legs: Sudden swelling in the ankles, legs, or feet, known as oedema, indicates fluid buildup due to a weak heart. Heart disease in women frequently results in right-sided heart failure, leading to fluid backup and swelling. This problem tends to get worse by the evening or after consuming salt. People often mistake it for simply gaining weight or having poor blood circulation.

Unusual Sweating or Dizziness: Experiencing cold sweats or getting dizzy/lightheaded unexpectedly without being overheated or dehydrated can indicate heart disease. This sign suggests that the autonomic nervous system is under stress from reduced blood flow to the heart. Women often describe feeling clammy and faint due to low blood pressure affecting their brain.