At 75, Susan Lucci has been open about her health struggles, recently sharing details about her ongoing heart issues. The renowned actress first experienced heart problems three years ago, and she has since undergone emergency cardiac surgery for a second time. In an interview with Good Morning America, she revealed that she had been struggling with shortness of breath, a troubling symptom that reminded her of her previous health scare. “I was getting a type of shortness of breath,” Lucci said, adding, “‘This is insane,’ I thought. These are the exact symptoms I had three years ago, but they can’t be the same.”
As the symptoms intensified, including pain in her jaw, Lucci recognized the familiar warning signs and sought immediate medical attention. Her doctor advised her to go to the ER, where an examination revealed an 80% blockage in one of her arteries. She underwent another procedure to insert a stent and clear the obstruction, preventing a potential heart attack.
Recognizing the Subtle Symptoms of Heart Disease
Susan Lucci’s experience serves as a reminder of how important it is to recognize the signs of heart disease, especially when those symptoms are less obvious. Dr. Richard Shlofmitz, chairman of cardiology at St. Francis Hospital, explained that Lucci was not having a heart attack at the time but was exhibiting concerning signs that warranted further investigation. “She wasn’t experiencing a heart attack this time, and she wasn’t unstable. But she was exhibiting signs that made me think something was amiss,” Dr. Shlofmitz noted.
Heart disease is often harder to detect in women than in men. Symptoms can be more subtle or less noticeable, making early detection a challenge. In Lucci’s case, her decision to seek medical help was crucial. Had she waited longer, she could have faced a much more serious situation, possibly a heart attack.
Why Heart Disease is Harder to Detect in Women
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, but its symptoms can be more difficult to identify, particularly in women. Unlike the more dramatic signs that are often depicted in the media — such as sudden chest pain or collapse — many heart problems have mild or even invisible symptoms. Women may experience symptoms that aren’t typical, such as nausea, jaw pain, or discomfort that isn’t localized to the chest. In fact, heart disease in women can sometimes be misdiagnosed as less serious issues like stress or digestive problems.
This makes it even more vital for people, especially women, to stay vigilant and understand that heart disease doesn’t always come with obvious warning signs. If you experience unusual symptoms, it’s critical to take them seriously and seek professional help.
Key Symptoms of Heart Problems to Watch For
According to health experts, there are several warning signs of heart issues that everyone, particularly those at higher risk, should be aware of. Dr. Charles Chambers, MD, director of the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory at Penn State Hershey Heart and Vascular Institute, advises that if you’re uncertain about your symptoms, it’s best to get them checked out. This is especially important for individuals over the age of 60 or those with risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure.
Some of the most common symptoms of heart problems include:
- Chest Discomfort: This is the most recognizable sign of a heart attack. The pain might be tightness, pressure, or a feeling of fullness in the chest, and it can last for more than a few minutes. It may occur while you’re awake or even while you’re asleep.
- Digestive Symptoms: Women, in particular, may experience nausea, stomach pain, heartburn, or irritable bowel syndrome during a heart attack. These symptoms can easily be mistaken for less serious conditions, which is why they should never be ignored.
- Jaw or Throat Pain: While jaw or throat pain is often linked to less serious issues like muscle strain or a cold, it can sometimes be a sign of heart trouble if it’s accompanied by chest pain. If pain starts in the chest and radiates to the jaw or throat, it could signal a heart attack.
- Other Warning Signs: Pain that radiates to the arm, dizziness, fatigue, excessive sweating, swollen legs and ankles, and irregular heartbeats are all potential indicators of heart problems.
Preventing Heart Disease Through Awareness
Heart disease doesn’t always present itself in dramatic ways, and the symptoms can vary greatly between individuals. Women in particular should be aware that their signs may differ from the classic symptoms often seen in men. Recognizing the signs early and seeking medical attention can save lives. Heart disease can be managed and treated effectively when caught early, which is why it’s so important to stay informed and proactive about heart health.
If you are at risk or experiencing any concerning symptoms, it’s wise to consult a doctor. As Dr. Chambers points out, “If you’re not sure, get it checked out.” Taking this advice seriously could make all the difference in preventing more severe heart problems down the line.
