international womens day

On International Women's Day , at Medisol we reflect on women's health - and two of the often underestimated health risks are heart attacks or sudden cardiac arrest. Many people think that heart problems mainly affect men, but did you know that cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death in women worldwide? Moreover, the symptoms of a heart attack in women are often different from those in men, making them less likely to be recognised. It’s time to change this!

The difference between a heart attack and cardiac arrest

Heart attack and cardiac arrest are not the same thing. The terms are often used incorrectly. Let us first clarify the distinction:

  • A heart attack occurs when a blood vessel to the heart becomes partially or completely blocked, restricting blood flow. This causes damage to the heart muscle tissue.
  • Cardiac arrest is an electrical failure of the heart, causing it to stop pumping correctly. This leads to unconsciousness within seconds and requires immediate CPR and the use of a defibrillator

Although these conditions are different, a heart attack can cause cardiac arrest. Therefore, recognising the symptoms is crucial.

Symptoms of a heart attack in women

The most common symptoms for a heart attack in both men and women are:

  • Severe chest pain that may radiate to the arm, shoulder or jaw
  • Sweating, nausea and/or vomiting
  • Looking pale or greyish
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.

In women, symptoms may be more subtle and therefore less recognisable. Women are more likely to experience:

  • Pain in the upper back or abdomen, neck, jaw or shoulders (instead of typical chest pain)
  • Shortness of breath, even without exertion
  • Extreme fatigue or a feeling of weakness
  • Dizziness or nausea, sometimes with vomiting
  • Pressing or burning sensation in the chest (but often not as severe as in men)

These symptoms are often mistaken for stress, muscle aches or digestive problems, making women less likely to seek medical attention. Another factor to consider is that a heart attack in women sometimes announces itself weeks in advance.

Symptoms of sudden cardiac arrest in women

Cardiac arrest comes suddenly and without warning. The signs for cardiac arrest are:

  • Sudden collapse and unconsciousness
  • No normal breathing (sometimes gasping can occur > link to gasping blog)
  • No pulse or heartbeat

These signs are the same in both women and men. In case of cardiac arrest, immediate action is needed: call the emergency services, start CPR and use a defibrillator. Every second counts!

Why is this awareness so important?

Because the symptoms of a heart attack are less recognisable in women, they often wait longer than men to seek medical help. This can have serious consequences. However, quick recognition and action can save lives.

What can you do?

  • Learn to recognise the symptoms of a heart attack and cardiac arrest
  • Take symptoms seriously, even if they seem vague or atypical
  • Take a first aid or CPR course so you know how to act in an emergency situation

On International Women's Day , we not only put women in the spotlight, but at Medisol we use this day to raise awareness about women and heart health. Because the faster you intervene, the greater the chance of survival?

Do you know the signs? Share this information with your friends, family, colleagues and acquaintances and help save lives!