Myth: If I were having a heart attack, I’d know it because they are always dramatic and painful.

Fact: Some heart attacks are painful and immediately recognizable. However, says Dr. Bauman, “women’s symptoms are often much more subtle. The studies show that 64% of women who die suddenly of a heart attack have no previous symptoms, or it is possible they had symptoms and they ignored them.” Some symptoms include back pain, nausea, shortness of breath, jaw pain, and excessive fatigue/lower than usual exercise tolerance. For a complete list of symptoms, go to www.heart.org. And, if you feel you are having symptoms of a heart attack, call 9-1-1 immediately.