Understanding Differences in Cardiac Arrest Symptoms for Men and Women

February is Heart Month, the perfect time to focus on your heart health!

At Norman Regional Health System, we are dedicated to not only treating cardiac emergencies, but also educating our community on prevention and early detection. What better time than Heart Month to raise awareness about heart health and the warning signs of cardiac arrest?

What is Cardiac Arrest?

Cardiac arrest is a medical emergency that requires immediate action. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), cardiac arrest is the abrupt loss of heart function in a person who may or may not have been diagnosed with heart disease. It can come on suddenly or following other symptoms, and without immediate, appropriate intervention, it is often fatal. 

The AHA reports that more than 436,000 cardiac arrest deaths occur each year in the U.S. 

It’s important to understand that a heart attack is not the same as cardiac arrest. In cardiac arrest, prompt CPR and defibrillation can sometimes restore a normal rhythm and save a life.

• Heart attack: caused by a blockage stopping blood flow to the heart
• Cardiac arrest: due to a malfunction in the heart’s electrical system that stops it from beating properly.

Recognizing the warning signs of a cardiac arrest can be the difference between life and death. Research shows that these signs may differ significantly between men and women.

Recognizing the Symptoms: Men vs. Women

How Do Symptoms Differ?

Men:

• Often experience the classic “crushing” chest pain.
• May collapse suddenly and lose consciousness.
• Typically report severe chest discomfort that radiates to the left arm or jaw.

Women:

• May not have the classic chest pain. Instead, they might experience:
  • Shortness of breath
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Unusual fatigue or lightheadedness
  • Pain in the back, neck or jaw
• These symptoms can be more subtle and sometimes dismissed as less critical.

Delayed recognition in women can lead to worse outcomes, which is why early detection is critical for everyone.

Why Does This Matter?

The subtle differences in symptom presentation can mean that women are less likely to receive an immediate diagnosis. This delayed recognition can result in worse outcomes for women.

Taking Action: What You Can Do

• Get Regular Checkups: The only sure way to know if you have high blood pressure or any other risk factors is through regular screening by your primary care provider.
• Know the Warning Signs: If you experience any unusual symptoms, don’t ignore them! Call 911 immediately if you suspect a cardiac emergency.
• Educate Yourself and Others: Understanding these differences can help you take proactive steps to safeguard your health and encourage those around you to do the same.
• ​​Adopt a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle: Managing high blood pressure isn’t just about medication. Lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet, regular exercise and stress management can significantly lower your risk of heart disease and cardiac arrest.

The Connection Between High Blood Pressure and Cardiac Arrest

When blood pressure remains high for too long, it can damage the walls of blood vessels. Tiny tears may develop, and the body sends special cells to repair these areas. Over time, cholesterol and fats build up at these damaged spots, forming plaque. This plaque narrows the arteries, further increasing blood pressure and putting extra strain on the heart. If left unchecked, these conditions can create a dangerous environment that may lead to a cardiac arrest.

According to the American Heart Association, nearly half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure, and many are unaware of it. 

The CDC also emphasizes that early recognition is key, yet studies show that women’s symptoms are often underrecognized, leading to delays in treatment.

Norman Regional’s Advanced Cardiology Services

At Norman Regional, we offer comprehensive cardiology services, from primary care and preventative screenings to advanced interventions. Our team includes leading cardiothoracic surgeons, interventional cardiologists and an electrophysiologist all dedicated to early detection and personalized treatment. By integrating Norman Regional’s leading-edge technology and evidence-based practices, we ensure that every patient receives the highest level of care.

Whether you need routine monitoring, hypertension management or advanced cardiac procedures, Norman Regional providers are here to support your heart health. Regular check-ups with your primary care provider are essential, so don’t wait to schedule your appointment. You can schedule an appointment by calling 405-515-5000.

For more detailed information on cardiac arrest symptoms and prevention strategies, visit the American Heart Association and the CDC’s Heart Disease page.