Warning Signs: Nausea Can Be a Symptom of Heart Attack in Women
Introduction
In a recent segment on the “Today” show, heart health educator Chantrise Holliman shared her personal experience of a heart attack, highlighting the subtle symptoms that accompanied it. Nausea, vomiting, and mild chest pressure were experienced by Holliman, which led her to initially dismiss them as unrelated to a heart attack. It is important for women to be aware that stomach symptoms, including nausea, can be indicative of a serious cardiac event.
Common Misconceptions about Heart Attack Symptoms in Women
Contrary to common belief, chest pain is not always the most common warning sign of a heart attack in women. Nausea, as well as vomiting, can also be experienced during a cardiac event. The manifestation of symptoms depends on the affected blood vessel in the heart, with nausea being observed more frequently in women.
Other Signs of Heart Attack in Women
In addition to nausea, women may experience jaw pain, neck pain, a dull feeling of chest discomfort, upper abdomen pain, back pain, and excessive tiredness. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial since heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women in the country, with one woman dying every 80 seconds from cardiovascular disease.
Decoding the Link Between Nausea and Heart Attack
Although nausea is not a common standalone symptom of a heart attack, it can indicate an underlying concern. Dr. Sean Heffron, a cardiologist at NYU Langone Health, emphasizes the rarity of nausea being the only symptom. Food poisoning, stomach flu, and motion sickness among other causes are considered more common culprits. However, if nausea is accompanied by additional warning signs such as chest pain, sweating, heart palpitations, and dizziness, it is important to seek medical attention, particularly for individuals with risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes.
Protecting Your Heart Health
Maintaining optimal heart health involves various lifestyle practices. The American Heart Association’s “Life’s Essential 8 checklist” provides valuable guidance in this regard. It includes consuming a diet rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, engaging in regular exercise, managing contributing factors like cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar, ensuring sufficient sleep, and refraining from smoking. Prioritizing these factors can greatly contribute to heart health and overall well-being.
Recognizing and Trusting Your Body
It is essential not to ignore symptoms, regardless of their seeming insignificance. Heart attack symptoms can vary, and for women, they may not always resemble the dramatic portrayals shown in movies. Subtle signs, like nausea, can be significant, particularly when accompanied by other risk factors and symptoms. Dr. Heffron advises individuals to seek medical attention if they feel unwell and have concerns, without hesitating.
Conclusion
Being aware of atypical symptoms of a heart attack, such as nausea, can save lives. Recognizing and taking action upon these warning signs leads to early intervention, which is critical given the alarming prevalence of heart disease among women. Cherishing our heart health through conscientious lifestyle choices remains paramount in preventing heart disease and maintaining a healthy and fulfilling life.
