On average, men tend to suffer more heart attacks at a younger age compared to women (age 65 for men, age 72 for women). However, more women die of heart attacks than men do. Among all the reasons for the high mortality rate (women have a higher life expectancy than men do), one can’t help but include the fact that women tend to report fewer heart attacks. This is because they are often unaware that they are even experiencing one. Due to limited awareness, they are unable to seek appropriate treatment, significantly reducing the survival rate. 

Women suffering a heart attack are more prone to developing ‘neoclassical’ symptoms than men. Women experiencing heart attacks tend to have more ‘neoclassical’ symptoms than men. Women report distinct symptoms, rarely relating them to heart attacks in real-time and often mistaking them for ‘the flu’ or a ‘stomach bug’.

Women have a 12X higher probability of feeling throat discomfort, a 3.7X higher probability of developing indigestion and a 3.9X higher probability of vomiting during heart attacks. Women are also more likely to experience shortness of breath without chest discomfort, making them feel like they have run a marathon, but, in reality, they haven’t exerted excessive energy. This is accompanied by pain or discomfort in the arms, back, and even the jaw. Men are 4.7X more likely to experience right-sided chest discomfort and 3.9X more likely to report a general dull ache.

On average, it takes men 3 hours to call for medical assistance when having a heart attack and women 4 hours.  When experiencing a heart attack, survival depends on early detection and treatment. Seek immediate medical attention or speak to your healthcare professional if you are suffering from any of the above symptoms. Getting help as early as possible is key.