How Heart Attacks Differ between Men and Women
More than one million people in the United States alone suffer from a heart attack every year. However, many people are unaware that there is a difference in symptoms between men and women when experiencing a heart attack. While our hearts may all work the same, there are different physiological differences that can affect the symptoms when a heart attack does strike. These differences make heart attacks difficult to diagnose in women. No matter the differences in symptoms, a heart attack is always a health emergency that requires immediate medical treatment. The best way to prevent long term damage due to an undiagnosed heart attack is to know what you are looking for.
Warning Signs for Men:
Warning Signs for Women:
A recent study by the American Heart Association found that only 65 percent of women say they would seek emergency assistance if they thought they were having a heart attack. The main reason for this is because women will hesitate to seek help because they do not feel they exhibit classic symptoms of a heart attack. Many women also believe heart disease is more of a “man’s disease” so they do not believe they are ever at risk for a heart attack.
When it comes down to it, men and women have major physiological differences that affect the body in different ways. We all lead different lives that can affect our stress levels and the overall health of our bodies. No matter if you are a man or woman, there are steps that you can take to reduce your risk for a heart attack. Steps can include quitting smoking, exercising at least 150 minutes every week, following a nutritious and heart healthy diet, seeing your doctor regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight. The best way to live a healthy happy life is to simply take care of your body.
References:
Heart Attacks in Women
Heart Attack Symptoms, Are they different form men and women
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