4 Subtle Signs of Heart Disease in Women

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women. Yet, an estimated 44% of women don’t realize the significance of the threat. In fact, it kills more women than all forms of cancer combined each year.

Heart disease in women can be subtle, and the symptoms can be quite different from the signs men experience. 

At Dr. Bamba's Health and Medical Center, Dr. N'Dama Bamba, MD, MPH, believes that knowledge is power, and that’s why we’re focusing on the top four subtle signs of heart disease in women. 

Read on to learn about the warning signs of heart disease and how our team can help you manage this chronic condition.

4 signs of heart disease in women

Heart disease is an umbrella term that includes several conditions, including coronary artery disease and heart valve disease. 

Women may experience more subtle symptoms such as:

1. Unexplained fatigue

Feeling unusually tired or exhausted, even after a full night's sleep or minimal physical exertion, can be an early warning sign of heart disease. This type of fatigue is often persistent and doesn’t resolve no matter how much sleep you get.

Women may dismiss it as being overworked or stressed. However, unexplained fatigue can indicate that your heart is struggling to pump blood efficiently.

2. Shortness of breath

It’s normal to feel out of breath during an intense workout, but if you find yourself short of breath during normal activities like walking up stairs or doing chores, it could be a sign of heart problems. 

While this symptom is often mistaken for asthma or being out of shape, shortness of breath can indicate that your heart isn’t pumping quite right.

3. Mild chest discomfort

Unlike the sharp and intense chest pain often associated with heart attacks in men, women may experience a mild aching or a tight sensation in their chests. This discomfort may feel like indigestion, heartburn, or a squeezing pressure that comes and goes. 

Don’t ignore these sensations — if you have any concerns about chest pain, call 9-1-1 or head to your nearest emergency room.

4. Pain in your neck, jaw, or back

Pain related to heart disease isn’t confined to the chest. It can develop in the neck, jaw, shoulder, or back. 

These symptoms are often confused with muscle strain or tension. However, they could be your body's way of signaling heart issues, especially if the pain worsens with physical activity.

Jaw pain, for example, is a common heart attack symptom in women.

What to do if you spot these signs

It’s important to know that just because you spot one (or more) of these symptoms doesn’t mean you necessarily have heart disease. Other conditions can cause these symptoms, too. For example, depression, menopause, and thyroid issues can all contribute to fatigue.

That said, if you experience any of these signs, talk to Dr. Bamba. Early detection and prompt treatments can help prevent the progression of heart disease and protect your health.

Even if you don’t have heart disease, Dr. Bamba can help you manage other conditions, such as asthma, that contribute to your symptoms.

Take action today

Heart disease doesn't always announce itself with dramatic signs. That’s why it’s so important to know all of the signs of heart disease — subtle or not. If you have any concerns about your health, don’t hesitate to visit us at our Glen Burnie, Maryland, office.

Dr. Bamba can review your symptoms, take your medical history, and order diagnostic tests to confirm the source of your symptoms. Depending on what’s causing your symptoms, Dr. Bamba may recommend lifestyle modifications and medication. 

To schedule an appointment, click here or give us a call at 443-493-7760.