Physical Warning Signs No Woman Should Ignore

Back Or Abdominal Pain

a woman in menstrual pain. Photo Credit: Dreamstime

Abdominal pain is often associated with gastrointestinal distress, such as constipation or excessive gas. Unfortunately, pain in the abdomen and back are also common signs of a heart attack in women. The stereotypical tightening or clenching of the heart muscle during a heart attack may not be present, since heart attacks often present differently in women than they do in men. It is because of these differences in symptoms that heart attacks in women are often missed until it's too late, since everyone knows the classic signs! More often, women will experience pain in their abdomen or lower back, often causing them to ignore the impending heart failure.

Indigestion

Photo Credit: TheActiveTimes

Like abdominal pain on the previous slide, indigestion is a commonly overlooked sign of an impending heart attack in women. Because most individuals do not associate the digestive tract with heart health, ignoring indigestion or heartburn along with other symptoms often leads to heart attacks that go unnoticed until it is too late. If indigestion presents with dizziness, back or abdominal pain, excessive sweating, loss of vision, shortness of breath, or fatigue, it is wise to see a doctor immediately. Prolonged indigestion could also indicate issues within the digestive tract, including irritable bowel syndrome, gastroesophageal reflux disease, ulcers, and even gallbladder diseases.

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