February marks American Heart Month, established in 1964 by President Lyndon B. Johnson to promote awareness of cardiovascular health. Despite decades of progress, heart disease remains the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. This year, the 2025 American Heart Month highlights how heart attack symptoms often differ for women.
The Importance of Heart Health Awareness for Women
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among women, responsible for 1 in 3 deaths annually, according to the American Heart Association. Each year, an estimated 2.7 to 3 million women experience a heart attack (myocardial infarction). Encouragingly, up to 90% of cardiovascular disease cases are considered preventable through proactive health measures.
Misconceptions About Heart Attack Symptoms: The Hollywood Heart Attack
The term ‘Hollywood Heart Attack’ describes the exaggerated portrayal often seen in movies, where someone dramatically clutches their chest, experiences intense pain, and collapses. In reality, heart attack symptoms are often much more subtle and varied, especially in women.
Understanding these misconceptions is crucial for recognizing the real and often subtle signs of a heart attack, especially in women.
Symptoms: Women vs. Men
Women may experience symptoms for weeks leading up to a heart attack. The Military Health System provides this informative graphic that highlights the differences in heart attack warning signs between women and men.
Symptoms common in both women and men:
- Chest pain or pressure
- Pain in the arm or arms, neck, or jaw
- Shortness in breath
- Sweating
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Nausea
Additional symptoms common in women:
It is important to know the heart attack symptoms specific to women
- Pressure or squeezing in the center of the chest that may last a few minutes or come and go
- Discomfort between shoulder blades
- Gas-like abdominal pain
- Unusual fatigue or weakness
- Anxiety
- Sleep problems
Call 911
Heart attack symptoms in women may be subtle, but they are just as deadly. Never ignore or downplay these signs. If you experience any symptoms, act quickly—call 911 and get to a hospital immediately. Prompt action saves lives.
Prevention, Education, and Swift Action Saves Lives!
Heart disease continues to be a leading threat to women’s health, but awareness and timely action can make all the difference. Understanding how heart attack symptoms present differently in women empowers us to recognize the warning signs early and seek help immediately. As we observe American Heart Month, let’s commit to prioritizing heart health—not just for ourselves, but for the women we love. Remember, prevention, education, and swift action save lives.
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RESOURCES
- Heart Attack Symptoms in Women – American Heart Association
- Women’s Heart Attacks Symptoms Can Differ from Men’s: Know the Signs – The US Military Health System
- Warning Signs & Symptoms of Heart Attack and Stroke – American Heart Association
Joanne Bedwell, PT is the Resident Blogger at Be Active Be Well. She lives and works in San Francisco with her husband and two (almost) grown daughters. Having over 25 years of experience as a physical therapist, she sees clients in their homes and teaches fitness classes in person and virtually.
DISCLAIMER: This article contains information that is intended to help the readers be better informed regarding health care issues. It is presented as general advice on health care and is not intended to be a substitute for the medical advice of a licensed physician. The reader should consult with their doctor in any matters relating to his/her health.
