Young women under 40 are facing more heart attacks — here’s why the warning signs are missed

Heart attacks are no longer limited to older people. In recent years, doctors are seeing a worrying rise in heart attacks among women under 40. Stressful lifestyles, long working hours, irregular sleep, and ignoring early symptoms are major reasons for this trend. But the biggest challenge is that young women often don’t realise their symptoms may be related to the heart.

Early signs young women often ignore

The symptoms in younger women are usually subtle and easy to misjudge. These include:

•Severe tiredness that feels unusual or unexplained

•Shortness of breath, even while walking or climbing stairs

•Discomfort in the jaw, neck, back, or upper stomach

•Nausea, dizziness, or sudden sweating

•Chest pressure, not always severe

Because these signals resemble acidity, anxiety, or weakness, many women continue their routine without seeking help.

Why women under 40 miss the warning signs

1.Stress, work pressure, and lifestyle issues

Young women often blame their symptoms on long work hours, lack of sleep, or mental stress.

2.Belief that “I am too young to have a heart problem”

This leads to denial and delay in reaching the hospital.

3.Hormonal changes and anaemia

Conditions like PCOS, thyroid issues, and low haemoglobin — common in young women — increase strain on the heart.

4.Skipping regular health check-ups

Many young women avoid routine tests, assuming everything is fine because they are active or appear fit.

5.Smoking and fitness shortcuts

Rising smoking rates, crash diets, and extreme workouts can also raise heart risk.

A rising trend that needs awareness

India has seen a sharp rise in heart attacks among young populations, nearly 30% higher than a few years ago. Young women often dismiss symptoms as stress or gastric issues, resulting in late treatment.

What young women should do

Do not ignore breathlessness, unusual fatigue, or chest and upper body discomfort. Get timely check-ups, manage stress, exercise regularly, and seek medical care immediately if symptoms appear. Early action can save lives.

Dr. Naveen Bhamri, Vice Chairman & HOD, Cardiology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Shalimar Bagh