Don't Ignore This Warning Sign!

In a shocking revelation on the 'Today' show, heart health educator Chantrise Holliman shared her alarming experience with a heart attack. As a dedicated mother and wife from Georgia, she mistook her symptoms for something as simple as a bad meal.

Holliman endured nausea, vomiting, and mild chest pressure—common ailments that often lead us to dismiss serious concerns. But as Holliman learned the hard way, stomach issues can indeed be red flags for a heart attack!

The Overlooked Indicators of a Heart Attack

Dr. Sean Heffron, a cardiologist at NYU Langone Health, emphasizes that symptoms like nausea, though not typical, can signal a cardiac event. In fact, women often experience different signs compared to men, including jaw pain, neck discomfort, chronic fatigue, and unexplained back pain.

"Many women mistakenly believe they need to be clutching their chest to be having a heart attack, but these symptoms can be more subtle," explains Dr. Tara Narula, a cardiologist and medical contributor for NBC News.

Heart Disease: The Silent Killer

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women in the U.S., claiming a life every 80 seconds. Understanding the varied symptoms is vital.

When to Worry About Nausea

"While it's rare for nausea to be the sole symptom of a heart attack, it's not impossible," Dr. Heffron cautions. If nausea comes with intensity like chest pain, dizziness, or profuse sweating, it’s time to seek medical help. For those with risk factors such as high blood pressure or diabetes, any unusual symptoms should not be brushed aside.

Taking Charge of Your Heart Health

Don’t underestimate what your body is telling you! Knowing how heart attack symptoms present in women can be life-threatening. Dr. Heffron suggests using the American Heart Association's 'Life's Essential 8' checklist to maintain heart health.

This includes following a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, managing cholesterol and blood pressure levels, getting adequate sleep, and avoiding smoking.

Listen to Your Intuition!

Feeling off? Don't ignore it! Dr. Heffron urges women not to downplay any troubling symptoms. These less obvious signs could be critical, and it's essential to consult a doctor if you have concerns.

"If something feels wrong, especially with existing cardiovascular risk factors, you need to get it checked out immediately!" he insists.