Many may mistakenly think that heart attacks are a problem, mostly for men. However, the reality is that despite the lower heart rate in women, they are more prone to fatalities in the event of a disease. This is due to the fact that symptoms in women can manifest less clearly and have nonspecific signs, such as shortness of breath, nausea and discomfort in the upper abdomen. If these symptoms are not interpreted and the heart attack is diagnosed too late, it can lead to tragic consequences.
It is important to consider gender differences. For example, it is known that cardiovascular diseases in women usually develop 10 years later than in men, which is caused by hormonal features. However, reducing the level of female hormones with age reduces the degree of natural protection.
Scientific studies indicate that some risk factors are more harmful to women, including smoking and diabetes of the second type. Women who smoke at the age of 55 are at risk of heart attack seven times more often than women who do not smoke, of the same age. Even conditions such as preeclampsia, which can occur only during pregnancy, increase the risk of heart attacks throughout life.
It should also be noted that symptoms of heart attack in women may be different from men. Instead of acute chest pain, women may experience pressure, unpleasant sensations and discomfort in the breast area, which can create confusion during diagnosis. Against this background, they can also show shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting or symptoms that resemble influenza.
It is important to remember that women should perceive these warning signals seriously, especially if the symptoms occur suddenly. In case of suspected heart attack, you should call an ambulance immediately.
