Heart disease and stroke are responsible for more deaths in the U.S. than all forms of cancer and chronic respiratory disease combined, as per the latest data from the American Heart Association. Nearly half of Americans, 48%, have some type of heart disease, with medical professionals describing it as “common, catastrophic, and costly,” as stated in a perspective published in January in the journal Circulation. Studies have shown that women are at a much higher risk of dying after a heart attack than men, possibly due to women often experiencing atypical symptoms of a heart attack.
One individual, Caprario, had several risk factors for heart disease, such as Type 2 diabetes and a family history of heart issues. Despite maintaining a healthy lifestyle by managing her diabetes through diet and exercise, she began experiencing unexpected symptoms in May 2024. Initially attributing the pain in her left shoulder blade to indigestion, the discomfort soon spread and intensified, affecting her chest, arm, jaw, and head.
These symptoms, including back pain, jaw discomfort, and tooth pain, can be unusual indicators of a heart attack, often overlooked or misinterpreted. Women, in particular, may exhibit subtler warning signs of a heart attack compared to men, such as nausea, lightheadedness, extreme fatigue, and chest palpitations.
Caprario’s experience highlighted the concept of referred pain, where discomfort is felt in a different area than the actual source of injury. Despite not experiencing traditional chest pain while being physically active, a sudden plaque rupture led to a heart attack, underscoring the importance of recognizing diverse symptoms.
After seeking medical attention and undergoing necessary procedures, Caprario participated in a cardiac rehabilitation program to aid in her recovery. Her story serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of heart-related issues and the significance of promptly addressing warning signs, even when they may seem unexpected or unrelated.
Caprario reports that she is feeling well and maintains a consistent cardio routine, dedicating 45 minutes every weekday to working out on either a treadmill, elliptical machine, or stationary bike. In addition to her exercise regimen, she takes a prescribed medication to manage her cholesterol levels. Caprario emphasizes the importance of seeking medical attention promptly, advising others not to delay as she did.
“Especially women,” Caprario points out, “we often endure pain more readily than men, and our symptoms may manifest differently.” Dr. Wodi underscores the significance of understanding and managing modifiable risk factors for heart disease, which include conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and obesity.
Wodi stresses the necessity of regular check-ups with primary care providers to detect and address these risk factors early. He highlights warning signs such as unexplained shortness of breath or excessive fatigue, urging individuals to be attuned to their bodies and seek medical advice if experiencing concerning symptoms.
Furthermore, the article delves into the daily habits that cardiologists employ to maintain heart health and explores behaviors that a heart surgeon avoids for their own well-being. This insightful piece was originally featured on TODAY.com.
