Study finds many women experience early heart attack warning signs

<br>(Washington-AP) -- A new study says women often have warning signs of a heart attack long before the attack actually occurs. <br><br>Researchers say the majority recalled having early symptoms an average

Monday, April 15th 2002, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Washington-AP) -- A new study says women often have warning signs of a heart attack long before the attack actually occurs.

Researchers say the majority recalled having early symptoms an average of six months before their heart attack, but some came as long as two years in advance.

Black women reported their symptoms in greater number, intensity and frequency than whites.

Fatigue, sleep disturbance, shortness of breath, indigestion and anxiety were the most common symptoms. Other symptoms included appetite changes, aching arms and frequent headaches.

The study was done by Jean McSweeney, a professor at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock.

She presented the findings at a Washington conference by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, other federal health agencies and the American Heart Association.