Heart disease is the number one killer of women in the United States. More than one-third of all deaths among U.S. women are due to heart disease, which usually occurs about 10 years later in life in women than in men. Heart disease mortality differs substantially among women of different races.

The most important thing to do if you think you are having heart attack symptoms is to call an ambulance or get to a hospital emergency room as quickly as possible so the doctor can examine and treat you.

Also, crush or chew a full-strength aspirin (swallow with a glass of water) to prevent further blood clotting.

Symptoms The symptoms to look for are:

Uncomfortable pressure, fullness, squeezing or pain in the center of the chest lasting more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back. Pain spreading to the shoulders, neck, upper back, jaw, or arms. Chest discomfort with lightheadedness, fainting, sweating, nausea, or shortness of breath. Some women have fewer chest symptoms, but other symptoms:

Atypical chest pain, stomach or abdominal pain. Nausea or dizziness. Unexplained anxiety and nervousness, weakness or overwhelming tiredness. Cold, sweaty skin, and paleness. Swelling of the ankles and/or lower legs. Some women mistakenly think only crushing chest pain is a symptom of a heart attack and, therefore, delay seeking medical care. Others have found that their doctor made a mistake and failed to recognize their heart attack symptoms, telling the women to go home and rest or that it is probably just indigestion. That's why it is so important for you to insist that the doctor administer an EKG test or an enzyme blood test to see if you are having a heart attack. Don't be shy - it's your heart and your life!