Women's Health / Heart and Circulatory System
Yes, women can have heart attacks. These are the symptoms
July 15, 2026
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Although chest pain is still the most common warning sign, the symptoms of an impending cardiac event can differ between men and women.
Women are more likely to experience:
- Shortness of breath
- Unusual fatigue
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Neck pain
- Jaw pain
- Upper back pain
Chest pain, he hallmark sign of a heart attack, is often less intense in women than in men: the pain tends to be milder.
In any case, if you experience one or more of these warning signs, call emergency services right away.
In Latin America, cardiovascular diseases are now the leading cause of death among women. Ischemic heart disease and stroke remain the most prevalent conditions, driven largely by rising rates of obesity, hypertension, and metabolic syndrome.
Researchers warn that, in some regions, women’s mortality rates from these conditions already exceed men’s, with projections suggesting a 300% rise in incidence over the next 20 years.
The situation is similar in the United States. Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women and can affect women of any age.
High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease in the United States.
Despite these revealing figures, women often attribute their symptoms to less serious conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux, the flu or natural “aches and pains” associated with aging.
Many women believe that the signs of a heart attack are impossible to miss. However, the signs may be less obvious and harder to recognize. Even subtle symptoms can be deadly, particularly if medical care is not received right away.
Primary care providers are on the front lines of raising awareness about this reality and empowering women to recognize and remain alert to potential warning signs.
Sources consulted