A lot of people think that heart attacks are more common to men, but heart disease is the number-one killer among women too, and they happen to women as often as men. The difference lies in the symptoms, risk factors, and how women experience heart attacks, making it important to be aware of them for prevention and early intervention.
That’s why Divine Medicare—trusted for buying medicines online in India—decided to write an extensive guide explaining everything about heart attacks in women, ranging from causes and symptoms to treatments. Read on!
What are the Causes of Heart Attacks in Indian Women?
Heart attacks occur when there is a blockage in the coronary arteries, preventing oxygen-rich blood from reaching the heart. The most common causes include:
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): CAD is the main cause of heart attacks in women and occurs by the buildup of plaque in the arteries, narrowing them and reducing blood flow.
High Blood Pressure: The uncontrolled high blood pressure puts additional load on the heart and leads to the risk of getting a heart attack among women.
High Cholesterol: Elevated levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) cause clogging of the arteries due to the formation of plaques along these arteries. It is another most common symptom of heart blockages in females causing heart attacks.
Diabetes: Women with diabetes have a greater chance of developing a heart disease and suffering from a heart attack as high blood sugar is detrimental to blood vessels.
Smoking: Smoking severely affects the blood vessels, reduces the oxygen levels within the blood, and increases the tendency for coagulation and clots, which can lead to heart attacks in women.
Obesity & Lack of Physical Activity: Being overweight also contributes to risk factors for developing health issues like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.
As mentioned earlier, these chronic illnesses lead to heart attacks in women.
Stress & Depression: Emotional stress can lead to increased blood pressure and inflammation, which are precursors to heart disease.
Menopause: The decreased level of oestrogen after menopause increases the chances of developing heart disease.
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What are the Symptoms of Heart Attacks in Indian Women?
For those who don’t know, Indian women have more subtle symptoms as compared to men, who suffer from crushing chest pains. And these subtle symptoms eventually result in delayed treatment. The common symptoms of heart attacks in women are:
Chest Pain or Discomfort: Women might feel like pressure, tightness, or a squeezing sensation, but it is most often milder than in men. A lot of time, women might dismiss it as heartburn or muscle pain, delaying the necessary medical action.
Shortness of Breath: Indian women often experience difficulty breathing even without exertion. This symptom may appear suddenly and can be accompanied by fatigue or dizziness. It can occur during rest or minimal physical activity, making it crucial to recognise as a warning sign of a heart attack.
Unusual Fatigue: Many women experience an unexplained and severe weakness or tiredness, even several days prior to a heart attack. Consequently, this fatigue is continuous and sometimes so overwhelming that even simple routine activities become laborious.
Pain in the Neck, Jaw, Shoulder, or Back: According to reports published by the National Institutes of Health, women are more likely to experience discomfort beyond the chest area while having a heart attack. The pain can come on suddenly or may develop gradually.
Dizziness or Lightheadedness: The sudden feeling of dizziness or faintness can be a prominent indication of a heart attack. This might be accompanied by nausea, fatigue, cold sweats, or shortness of breath.
Note: If the dizziness occurs along with other symptoms, medical help should be chased immediately!
Other Signs of Heart in Indian Women
- Difficulty Sleeping: An abrupt wakefulness brings about shortness of breath or a twinge of anxiety.
- Anxiety: A sudden feeling of fear without any reason.
- Heart palpitations: An irregular heartbeat that feels unsettling.
- Swelling in the legs or feet: Retention of fluid that causes swelling in the legs.
What are the treatments for Heart Attack in women?
On-time medical support can make a big difference in the outcomes for a woman with a heart attack. In emergencies, the right drugs can help stabilise the patient and prevent further injury. Here is a list of important drugs that must be administered urgently for initial management:
Aspirin: Helps prevent further clotting and allows blood flow.
Nitroglycerin: Relaxes the blood vessels to relieve chest pain.
Thrombolytics: Work to dissolve blood clots that are blocking the arteries if administered within a few hours.
Consult your physician if you experience some of the above listed symptoms so that the right medication can be prescribed. Don’t take medications on self analysis!
Heart Attack in Indian Women: Conclusion
Heart attacks in women can be life-threatening but awareness and early intervention can save lives. Understanding the initial symptoms, risk factors, and possible treatments can help women take proactive steps towards heart health. Whenever you or someone you know shows any sign of a heart attack, call for help immediately.
In case you want prescribed medicines at your doorstep, visit divinemedcare.com or call 97796 69887. Drop us a WhatsApp message at 97796 69887 to share your prescription and get the best pricing for medications.
For those who don’t know!
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