Heart attacks are typically imagined as sudden, intense events involving chest pain or collapse. However, women often experience different, subtler signs. These symptoms can be so mild that they’re dismissed or misunderstood—yet they may emerge weeks before a heart attack occurs.

Extreme fatigue is one of the most commonly reported early symptoms in women. If you feel persistently drained or exhausted, even after rest, and notice an increased heart rate or breathlessness with mild activity, it could be a warning sign. This kind of tiredness isn’t typical and shouldn’t be ignored.

Another red flag is abdominal discomfort. Women sometimes experience pain or cramping in the upper stomach area, which they mistake for indigestion or menstrual pain. However, when this discomfort is recurrent or not linked to food or the menstrual cycle, it may stem from the heart.

Sleep disturbances are also worth paying attention to. Trouble falling or staying asleep, waking up frequently, or sensing a pounding heart at night may signal cardiovascular issues. If these changes in sleep come with feelings of anxiety or restlessness, they warrant medical attention.

Unexplained anxiety or unease can be more than stress. A vague sense of dread or nervousness, particularly when paired with other symptoms, may indicate cardiovascular strain. Emotional symptoms can be just as important as physical ones in signaling a problem.

Shortness of breath from light exertion is another critical warning sign. If walking across a room or climbing stairs feels harder than usual, your heart may be struggling to circulate oxygen efficiently.

Women might also notice thinning hair or sudden hair loss, which can be tied to hormonal or stress-related changes affecting heart function. High cortisol levels impact both hair growth and cardiovascular health.

Together, these signs form a pattern that should not be dismissed. Women should trust their instincts when something feels off. Subtle symptoms can be the body’s early warning system—and acting early can save lives through timely detection and care.