Heart attacks in women often come with subtle symptoms—not the dramatic chest pain we expect. “Extreme tiredness or mild breathing trouble might not seem alarming… but they can be the early whispers of a serious cardiovascular issue.” Here are five signs to watch for:

Constant, unexplained exhaustion—even after rest—can signal heart problems. Some women report feeling out of breath or having a rapid heartbeat with minimal effort.

Ongoing cramps or burning in the upper belly, mistaken for indigestion or period pain, may stem from the heart. If it lingers or comes in waves without a clear cause, get it checked.

Restlessness, frequent waking, or a pounding heart at night, especially when paired with anxiety, might reflect cardiovascular strain.

If walking or light chores suddenly leave you breathless, your heart may be struggling to supply oxygen properly.

Rapid hair loss, especially with other symptoms, can point to stress-related hormonal imbalances affecting the heart.

Listen to your body. Subtle symptoms may be your heart’s early warning. If something feels “off,” don’t wait—talk to your doctor.