When is the last time you thought about your heart health?

It’s something that may not be on your radar, but with 1 in 4 women dying from heart disease and stroke, it’s important to be aware of it.

As a woman reaches menopause, her risk of heart disease and stroke becomes similar to men. Yet, women may experience symptoms that make it difficult to recognise heart attack. They also take longer than men to get medical help and treatment after experiencing a heart attack.

Symptoms of heart attack in women

The following symptoms of heart attack are common in women:

• chest pain that spreads to the neck, shoulder and left arm
• difficulty breathing
• feeling dizzy
• vomiting or feeling like you are going to vomit
• sweating

Less common symptoms that may occur:

• back pain
• stomach pain
• extreme fatigue

Some of these symptoms are common in other health conditions too, so you may not think they could be a heart attack. Don’t ignore them.

What should I do if I think I am having a heart attack?

• call 112 or 999 immediately
• try to stay as calm as possible while waiting for help to arrive
• taking deep, slow breaths can help
• do not drive yourself to the hospital

A heart attack is a medical emergency. The faster you get treatment, the less damage to your heart.

If you are concerned about your heart health, talk to your doctor and get checked.