3. Shortness of Breath – A Not-so-Subtle Hint
Another symptom that could point towards heart disease in women is shortness of breath or dyspnea. This symptom is particularly concerning as it can happen even during activities that wouldn’t have caused breathlessness in the past. For some women, it might even occur while at rest or when lying down.
Breathlessness often occurs because the heart is not pumping efficiently, unable to deliver sufficient oxygen to meet the body’s needs. Women might experience this as a sudden inability to carry out routine tasks without feeling winded, such as walking up the stairs or doing household chores.
Shortness of breath can be accompanied by other symptoms. For example, some women might feel chest discomfort along with breathlessness, while others might experience symptoms like cold sweats or nausea. Paying attention to these clusters of symptoms can help in the early detection of heart disease.
Keep in mind that shortness of breath isn’t normal even when it occurs with exertion. It’s a signal from your body that something is amiss, and you should take it seriously. If you’ve noticed that you’re getting winded more often or if breathing becomes uncomfortable, it’s time to consult a medical professional. (3)
