Susan Lucci: Heart Disease Symptoms Women Should Know

The Silent Threat: Women and Heart Disease

For over 41 years, Susan Lucci portrayed Erica Kane on All My Children. Now, she’s sharing a extremely personal story about heart health. Her experience has inspired her role as national ambassador for the American Heart Association’s “Go Red For Women” campaign.

A Wake-Up Call at the Restaurant

Lucci, currently 79 years of age, first noticed a slight pressure on her chest while being led to a restaurant table in October 2018. Initially dismissing it, the sensation returned a few weeks later. It wasn’t until a shopping trip that she experienced a more significant feeling – “like I had an elephant pressing on my chest.”

A manager at the boutique, familiar with Lucci, drove her to St. Francis Hospital in Long Island, New York. Tests revealed a 90% blockage in one artery and a 75% blockage in another.

Unexpected Findings and a Quick Response

Lucci’s husband had previously been treated for afib, so she initially contacted his doctor. Despite the chest discomfort subsiding by the time she reached the emergency room, a CT scan revealed the severity of the blockages. A cardiologist was prepared to perform surgery immediately, recognizing the potential for a heart attack.

Stents and Avoiding the “Widowmaker”

The cardiologist successfully placed two stents in Lucci’s coronary arteries, restoring blood flow. This intervention prevented what is known as the “Widowmaker” – a potentially fatal heart attack caused by a complete blockage of the left anterior descending coronary artery.

A Personal Connection to Awareness

Inspired to share her story, Lucci felt compelled to “pass it forward.” She highlighted the importance of recognizing that women’s heart disease symptoms can differ from those experienced by men, and emphasized the demand for prompt medical attention.

Subtle Symptoms in Women

Symptoms of coronary artery disease in women can be more subtle than the classic chest pain often associated with heart attacks in men. These can include pain in the jaw, neck, upper back, or shoulder, as well as fatigue, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or cold sweats.

Family History and Hidden Risks

Lucci initially believed she had no family history of heart disease. However, further investigation revealed that the calcium buildup contributing to her blockages was inherited from her father. She stresses the importance of considering health history from both sides of the family.

A Second Scare and Continued Advocacy

Three years later, Lucci experienced similar symptoms, initially dismissing them before recognizing the potential danger. Another blockage was discovered, requiring a second stent. Despite feeling “ashamed” of initially hesitating to seek help, she has continued to advocate for women’s heart health through the “Go Red for Women” campaign.

Lucci’s Memoir: La Lucci

Lucci recently published her memoir, La Lucci, co-written with Laura Morton, which includes detailed accounts of her heart-related experiences. This follows her 2011 autobiography, All My Life.

FAQ

• What are common heart disease symptoms in women? Symptoms can include chest pain, jaw pain, neck pain, upper back pain, shoulder pain, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or cold sweats.
• Is heart disease preventable? Maintaining a healthy diet, staying physically active, and getting regular check-ups can help reduce your risk.
• Why is it important to know your family history? Family history can reveal hidden risks for heart disease, even if you don’t have obvious risk factors.

What are your thoughts on Susan Lucci’s story? Share your comments below!