Did you know that women are at a much higher risk to have a silent heart attack and be unaware that it’s happening or confuse it with something else?
The symptoms of a heart attack can come on like a quiet storm.
Studies have shown that women who have had a heart attack often did not experience chest pain — the most telling sign of a heart problem. Instead, women have a set of symptoms that come on slowly and progress gradually, including:
Unusual fatigue
Sleep disturbance
Flu-like discomfort
Paleness or clammy skin
Inability to sleep
Men are much more likely to experience the most common symptoms suddenly and with more severity. They can have cold sweats, dizziness or a feeling that they’re going to pass out.
Most fans we’re shocked to learn that Peabo Bryson suffered a mild heart attack last year. He credits his wife’s quick thinking and fast response for his his speedy recovery. In honor of this Quiet Storm icon we’re encourage you to learn the common warning signs of heart attack.
Memorize the common heart attack warning signs like the words to your favorite love song:
Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes – or it may go away and then return. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain
Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
Shortness of breath. This can occur with or without chest discomfort.
Other signs. Other possible signs include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.
If you can spot them early, you can limit the damage from the heart attack. Keep your house a home and learn the signs for heart attack, and remember: Even if you’re not sure it’s a heart attack, have it checked out.
Minutes matter. Fast action can save lives – maybe your own. Call 911 if you experience heart attack warning signs. Calling 911 is almost always the fastest way to get lifesaving treatment. Learn more at heart.org
Join us for Quiet Storm Fans’ Peabo Bryson Listening Party with Leon Petrossian on Saturday, July 18, 8 – 10 PM. We will sharing heart health and heart attack information between Peabo Bryson’s most beloved songs.
Divabetic was inspired by the late music legend, Luther Vandross and created in 2005 by Max ‘Mr. Divabetic’ Szadek, who, as Vandross’ assistant of 14 years, witnessed his boss, mentor, and friend struggle in silence and solitude with the diabetes and its related complications. Since its inception, Divabetic has presented outreach programs in 15 major U.S. cities, reaching hundreds of thousands of women, their families and health care professionals.
Experience more of our GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS philosophy at divabetic.org