Heart diseases are a major cause of death among men and women around the world. However, the symptoms of the disease are different in both men and women. This is due to biological differences, hormonal influences, and other physiological factors. Women also have smaller hearts and narrower arteries than men. Their blood vessels are also more elastic. Often, conditions like pregnancy-related hypertension, gestational diabetes, and preeclampsia (a condition that affects them after 20 weeks of pregnancy) can increase risks of heart disease, too.  
Correctly recognizing the symptoms of heart attacks and other heart-related ailments could help save your own life and the lives of others. These are some of the symptoms of heart attack in women:

Chest pain is the most common symptom of heart attack in men and women. But, women may also feel nausea and neck and back pain. Women may even feel chest pain, like a feeling of contraction and severe stress on the chest. Some other symptoms are:
1) Pain on neck, chin, upper back and abdomen
2) Breathing difficulty
3) Pain on one hand or both hands
4) Nausea and vomiting
5) Excessive sweating
6) Dizziness
7) Fatigue
8) Indigestion and heartburn

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These are some of the common factors that lead to heart disease in women
1) Smoking – The risk of heart disease is high in women who smoke. Estrogen, the hormone that generally protects women, can also be affected by smoking. 
2) Inactive lifestyle – An inactive or lethargic lifestyle may lead to heart-related ailments.
3) Stress – Stress and symptoms of depression make women prone to heart diseases more than men. Leading a healthy life would be difficult for women who suffer from these symptoms.

4) Type 2 diabetes – Women with type 2 diabetes are more likely to have heart diseases than men.
5) Polycystic Ovary Syndrome – PCOS is a major factor that increases the risk of heart disease in women. This leads to type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and lack of sleep. More than five million women have been diagnosed with PCOS in the US alone.
6) Menopause – Low oestrogen levels after menopause could lead to heart attack or heart disease.
7) High-risk pregnancy – Those who suffer from high blood pressure during pregnancy also have a high risk of heart disease for a long time.

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Here’s how to reduce the risk of heart diseases
1) Exercising regularly
Regular workouts and exercise significantly reduce the chance of getting heart disease. High cholesterol and blood pressure could lead to heart attacks and heart ailments. So, doctors often suggest walking, jogging or other forms of exercise to keep you fit and active.
2) Food
A balanced and healthy diet that protects the heart is essential. Try to include fruits and vegetables in your daily diet. Besides, avoiding saturated fats and added sugar could ensure health and fitness. Whole grains and lean meat too could be added to your regular diet to keep your heart healthy.
3) Say no to smoking
You could enjoy a long and fulfilling life by quitting smoking. 

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