It can be second nature for women to push aside their own health symptoms or ailments to continue to care for their families, friends, and careers. But the next time you feel something isn’t right, it’s best not to ignore it.

An estimated 44 million American women suffer from cardiovascular disease.

Heart attack symptoms often present more subtly in women than the classic chest and arm pain experienced by men. Be on the lookout for these symptoms and seek treatment if you are experiencing them.

1. Shortness of Breath

If you are suddenly feeling winded from doing tasks that you typically do with ease, or are regularly becoming short of breath and experiencing a cold, clammy sweat, it could be an indicator that a heart issue is present.

2. Atypical Fatigue

Feeling more tired than usual, especially accompanied by a heavy feeling in the chest, can mean that your heart is having difficulty pumping blood through your body due to a cardiovascular issue like a blockage.

3. Jaw, Neck, & Back Pain

While men typically experience pain in their left arm and chest during a heart attack, women can have pain in both arms as well as their jaw, neck, or backs. If you have pain in these areas that worsens with activity and you are unable to pinpoint a specific injury or origin, it could mean a more serious cardiovascular problem is present.

When to seek treatment?

Many women report experiencing these symptoms weeks or months prior to having a heart attack. If you notice any of these changes in your health, make an appointment with your doctor.