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Heart disease remains the leading cause of death among women worldwide, yet many fail to recognise its warning signs. Unlike the classic, intense chest pain often seen in men, women experience more subtle symptoms that are frequently mistaken for less serious conditions. Understanding these signs can be life-saving. In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Bhushan Bari, Consultant Cardiologist at Ruby Hall Clinic, spoke about the importance of identifying heart disease symptoms in women early.

Subtle Yet Serious: Heart Disease Symptoms In Women

Unexplained Fatigue

Feeling constantly drained despite adequate rest? Persistent, unexplained fatigue—especially if daily activities leave you exhausted—could be an early warning sign of heart trouble.

Shortness Of Breath

Struggling to catch your breath during simple tasks or even while resting? Breathlessness is a red flag that is often misattributed to stress, anxiety, or respiratory issues.

Chest Discomfort

Women may not always experience sharp chest pain. Instead, they often feel tightness, pressure, or an uncomfortable squeezing sensation, which can come and go.

Pain Beyond The Chest

Heart disease can cause discomfort in unexpected areas like the neck, jaw, upper back, or shoulders, leading women to mistake it for muscle strain or tension.

Digestive Distress

Symptoms such as nausea, indigestion, bloating, or persistent stomach discomfort can sometimes indicate an underlying heart issue rather than a simple digestive problem.

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Dizziness And Lightheadedness

Feeling faint or dizzy, especially when standing up or exerting yourself, may signal poor blood circulation and a potential heart condition.

Cold Sweats

Breaking out in a sudden cold sweat without exertion is often dismissed as a menopausal symptom or stress, but it can also be a sign of a heart attack.

Swelling In The Legs, Ankles, Or Feet

Fluid retention in the lower body might indicate that the heart isn’t effectively pumping blood, leading to swelling that progressively worsens.

When To Take Action?

If you experience any of these symptoms—especially in combination—seek medical attention immediately. Delaying care could lead to severe complications.

Also Read: Can Pregnancy Cure Endometriosis? Myths And Facts Explained By An Expert

Protecting Your Heart: Simple Yet Powerful Steps

  1. Eat Heart-Healthy Foods: Prioritize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
  2. Stay Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly.
  3. Manage Stress: Practice mindfulness, meditation, or yoga to keep stress levels in check.
  4. Monitor Your Health: Regularly check blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.

Heart disease in women is often misdiagnosed or overlooked. By recognizing these subtle signs and making proactive lifestyle changes, you can take control of your heart health. Don’t ignore what your body is telling you—your heart deserves attention.

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