Women Suffer Heart Attacks Too: Understanding Risks, Symptoms, and How to Save Yourself

Experts warn that cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of women, and knowing the signs and taking action is crucial.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Lori Sepich, a 64-year-old from Memphis, Tennessee, suffered two heart attacks 13 years apart, despite not thinking she was at risk. More than 60 million women in the U.S. live with cardiovascular disease, and 1 in 5 women dies from it each year. Experts advise women to be aware of unique risk factors, recognize subtle symptoms, and seek immediate medical care if a heart attack is suspected.

Why it matters

Heart disease is often perceived as a 'man's disease,' but women are just as vulnerable. Raising awareness about the risks, symptoms, and importance of prompt treatment for women is crucial to saving lives.

The details

Women are more likely than men to have atypical heart attack symptoms like back pain, shortness of breath, and nausea. Experts aren't sure why, but physiological differences may play a role. Delays in seeking care can lead to more significant damage, so doctors urge women to call 911 and take an ambulance to the hospital if they suspect a heart attack.

  • In 2005, Lori Sepich had her first heart attack on Easter Sunday.
  • Sepich had her second heart attack 13 years later.

The players

Lori Sepich

A 64-year-old woman from Memphis, Tennessee, who suffered two heart attacks 13 years apart.

Dr. Sharonne Hayes

A cardiologist at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.

Dr. Stacey Rosen

President of the American Heart Association.

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What they’re saying

“The possibility 'just wasn't registering with me,'”

— Lori Sepich

“Knowing what to do if you have symptoms of a heart attack and taking action if you do, that's really important.”

— Dr. Sharonne Hayes, Cardiologist, Mayo Clinic

“If you think that there's even a chance that you're having a heart attack, that's when you call 911, and it's better to 'err on the side of over-concern than err on the side of minimizing something that could be quite serious.'”

— Dr. Stacey Rosen, President, American Heart Association

What’s next

Doctors recommend that women get regular checkups to discuss preventive measures, monitor their health, and address any unique risk factors they may have.

The takeaway

This story highlights the importance of women being aware of their heart health, recognizing the signs of a heart attack, and seeking immediate medical care if they suspect something is wrong. Prompt action can save lives.