[excerpt] When it comes to the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease, men have traditionally garnered more attention than women. You might think this is because men are more susceptible to cardiovascular disease than are women. But in reality, more women than men die of cardiovascular disease each year.
How do heart attack symptoms differ in women and men?
The most common symptom of a heart attack in both men and women is some type of pain, pressure or discomfort in the chest. But it's not always severe or even the most prominent symptom, particularly in women. Women are more likely to have signs and symptoms unrelated to chest pain, such as:
Neck, shoulder, upper back or abdominal discomfort
Shortness of breath
Nausea or vomiting
Sweating
Lightheadedness or dizziness
Unusual fatigue
We're not sure why women and men have these differences. But if you experience these symptoms or think you're having a heart attack, call for emergency medical help immediately. Don't drive yourself to the emergency room.
How do women know if they're at risk of heart disease?
Women - and men - can be grouped by the risk factors they have that can estimate their likelihood of having a heart attack or dying of heart disease within 10 years. The risk levels are:
l High risk. You already have heart disease or another serious, high-risk condition, such as kidney disease or diabetes.
l Intermediate risk. You have metabolic syndrome, early signs of cardiovascular disease, multiple risk factors - such as smoking, high blood pressure or high cholesterol - or parents, siblings or children with early-onset heart disease.
l Lower risk. You may have metabolic syndrome or one or more risk factors.
l Optimal risk. You have the best possible risk profile and you live a heart-healthy lifestyle.
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