A heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction, occurs when blood flow decreases or stops to a part of the heart, causing damage to the heart muscle. The signs of a heart attack can vary between men and women. Typical signs of a heart attack in a woman may include:
- Chest pain or discomfort.
- Shortness of breath.
- Nausea, vomiting, or lightheadedness.
- Pain in the jaw, neck, back, or arms.
- Unusual fatigue.
It’s important to note that women may experience these signs differently than men. For example, women are more likely to experience shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, and back or jaw pain during a heart attack.