It has been reported that some patients have been misdiagnosed with Indigestion, when in fact the correct diagnosis in their specific case was Heart Attack.
Around 30% of heart attacks are misdiagnosed by doctors. This misdiagnosis rate increases to up to 59% for women. This large gender difference in diagnosis rates comes down to the society’s image of the type of person that has a heart attack. That of a middle aged overweight man clutching their chest. Women present with rather atypical symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, back pain, light headedness and shortness of breath. Therefore women are more likely to be diagnosed with psychiatric conditions or dismissed entirely. These rates are incredibly alarming as correct diagnosis and rapid treatment are essential to reducing tissue damage to the heart and increasing patient survival.