How to recognize women's heart attack symptoms

Would you know if you were having a heart attack? Do you know what the symptoms are? In general, it is more challenging to diagnose a heart attack in women than in men as women may not experience the typical squeezing chest pain that men describe. Nor do they always experience the classic pain that radiates down the left arm.

The typical symptoms that women do describe include:

• Shortness of breath

• Back pain

• Jaw pain

• Tingling sensations

• Nausea

• Flu-like symptoms

• Chest pain

It is critical to evaluate risk factors when assessing your own symptoms, or those of a friend, relative or colleague if they are experiencing pain. These risk factors include:

• High blood pressure

• High cholesterol

• Smoking

• Family history of heart disease—especially at an early age

• Diabetes

• Being overweight

• Sedentary life style

If symptoms come on or get worse under exertion, and are relieved by rest, you should seek medical assistance immediately. If symptoms are especially acute, chew—don't swallow—two aspirin (it gets absorbed more quickly and may prevent platelet clotting) and call 911.

Remember: Trust yourself. If you think you're having a heart attack, you probably are. Get emergency medical help. It is better to be safe than sorry.