Heart Attack Signs in Women – Silent Symptoms | Dr Chan Po Fun, Singapore
- Dr Chan Po Fun
- Jun 29
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 8
Heart attacks in women often present with silent or unusual signs, and many dismiss them as menopause or stress. As a female cardiologist in Singapore, I have seen this firsthand.
Even fit, active women or those without traditional risk factors can experience subtle symptoms that are easy to ignore.
Here are three silent heart attack signs women should never overlook.
Top 3 Silent Heart Attack Signs in Women
1. Overwhelming Fatigue
“I am too tired to ferry my grandchildren around these days.”
Persistent fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest can be an early warning sign of heart disease in women.
2. Unexplained Jaw Pain
“My dentist found nothing, but the jaw ache persisted.”
Pain or pressure in the jaw, teeth, or upper back can occur without chest pain and should not be ignored.
3. Anxiety with No Apparent Trigger
“I thought it was a panic attack.”
Episodes of unexplained anxiety, dizziness, or restlessness can sometimes signal a heart problem.
Why Women Often Dismiss These Symptoms
Post-menopausal women may assume fatigue is due to aging or hormonal changes.
Active women often assume that heart disease will not strike when they are fit.
Women often put family first, saying, “I’ll get checked later”.
Delaying evaluation can worsen outcomes. Early recognition and timely consultation are crucial.
Mrs Lim, a 55-year-old teacher, mistook jaw pain for stress and breathlessness for aging. Only after months, and a blocked artery diagnosis, did she realize that the subtle signs she had ignored were related to her heart.
Atypical Signs of a Heart Attack in Women
According to the American Heart Association, women may experience
Upper back pressure, tightness, or squeezing
Anxiety, shortness of breath, or dizziness
Upset stomach or nausea
Pain in the shoulder, back, or arm
Unusual tiredness and weakness
Even without classic chest pain, these signs should prompt early evaluation.
When Should You See A Cardiologist?
Seek medical attention if you experience:
Chest discomfort or pressure
Persistent fatigue
Jaw, back, or arm pain
Shortness of breath
Nausea or dizziness
Anxiety with no apparent cause
Early consultation with a female cardiologist in Singapore can be life-saving.
FAQ: Women’s Heart Attack Symptoms
Q: Can fit and active women have heart attacks?
A: Yes. Even physically active women can suffer from heart attacks. Age, family history, and other conditions increase risk. The symptoms may be silent or atypical.
Q: What are the most common silent heart attack signs in women?
A: Fatigue, unexplained jaw pain, anxiety episodes, shortness of breath, nausea, and unusual weakness are common atypical symptoms.
Q: How quickly should I seek help?
A: If symptoms are persistent, increasing, or unusual for you, don’t wait. Early evaluation is critical.
Q: What does a heart check-up include?
A: A heart check-up includes symptom assessment, physical examination, and investigations to assess your heart's health status. Personalised advice will be given regarding your cardiovascular risk.
Heart attacks don't wait. Neither should your health.
If you’ve been brushing off warning signs, schedule a consultation now with Dr Chan Po Fun, female cardiologist in Singapore. Your heart deserves attention too.
Quick, personalised 20-minute heart check-up with Dr Chan Po Fun, female cardiologist specialising in Women’s Heart Health.
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