There are two populations at high risk for myocardial infarctions, who often are delayed in receiving treatment-- women and the elderly. This is because the symptoms displayed are often mistaken for the flu or indigestion. They more frequently present with the atypical symptoms of MI, referred to as a "silent" heart attack. The damage on the heart, however, is no less dangerous than a typical MI. In fact, heart disease is the #1 cause of death in women! After the age of 85, chest pain becomes a less likely symptom. Recognizing and reporting these atypical symptoms becomes even more crutial to saving the lives of these two at-risk groups.
"Just a Little Heart Attack"
Atypical symptoms of MI:
Pain that is not substernal or left-sided. Instead the discomfort could be located between the shoulder blades, upper abdomen, shoulders, elbows, axillae, or ears.
Discomfort that is described as numbness, tingling, pressure, pricking, stabbing or burning
Fatigue
Weakness
Palpitations
Indigestions
Loss of appetite
Confusion
Feeling of impending doom
In an attempt to increase awareness for heart health in women, the American Heart Association has launched the Go Red For Women campaign.
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