Heart Attack Symptoms in Women: Money Problems, Traumatic Life Events Put Females at Greater Risk

A study showed that women have a higher risk of heart attack due to some life stresses and financial struggle. According to Medical News Today, there is a 65 percent increased risk of heart attack in women who are middle-aged and older and have experienced "traumatic life events." Separate from the 65 percent, financial instability can also increase the risk of heart attacks in women. 

Previous studies related to heart attack risks have only covered people who have had attacks in the past and concentrate generally on men. Dr. Michelle A. Albert, senior author of the study, states, "Much of the prior research related to negative life events was done in persons who have a history of heart attacks and in men." 

Dr. Albert explains why it is important to focus on the heart attack risks of women. "It is important to assess these relationships in middle-aged and older women as this age group is more susceptible to heart disease as they age and are likely to live longer with disability." 

Medical News Today states that heart disease is primarily seen as a "man's disease," but the same number of men and women suffer or die from it. In addition, "heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in country." Even so, only 54 percent of women can recognize the symptoms of heart disease, states the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

Web MD lists some symptoms of heart attack in women. Women should know about some of the following symptoms: chest pain or discomfort; pain in your arms, back neck, or jaw; stomach pain; shortness of breath; nausea; lightheadedness; sweating; and fatigue. 

For the study, over 20,000 women averaging the age of 56 were assessed, reports Medical News Today. The participants were observed for 9 years to assess their risk of heart attack. 

Questionnaires asking about any "negative life events" were giving to the participants as well.  These events ranged from developing a life-threatening illness to being a victim of a serious assault, states Medical News Today. 

Dr. Albert explains the results saying, "In this analysis among middle-aged and older women, we found supportive evidence that negative cumulative life events were associated with [heart attack] risk, especially in low-income women and those suffering major traumatic life event."

She adds that the researchers have not been able to figure out why women seem to be more "physiologically vulnerable." As a result, Dr. Albert concludes that more research needs to be done.