My jaw pain was a heart attack

It wasn't crippling chest pain but a sore jaw that was the first sign of a heart attack for Eliza Leahy, a 63-year-old from Queensland.

The signs and symptoms of a heart attack in women can be different to those we tend to associate with heart problems, and as Eliza's story shows, they can be easily missed.

She wants other women to know that jaw pain can be a sign of a more serious health condition, and not to dismiss symptoms or put off seeking medical help. Being treated quickly could be the key to saving your life and protecting your health.

It was a typical Tuesday afternoon. I was pulling up weeds in the horse paddock when my jaw started hurting and I began to feel very weak. My friend Cathie, who's 6 years older than I am, seemed to have so much more energy than me. I thought 'I'm going to have to join a gym or something. This is ridiculous!'.

A few days later, the jaw pain hadn't gotten any better. I'd had a TIA (transient ischemic attack, like a small stroke) in 2023, and I read a lot and have close family and friends who are doctors, so I know a bit about the symptoms of cardiac problems.

I called an ambulance and was taken to hospital, where I had blood tests done and stayed overnight. The next day, the doctor discharged me. He said I wasn't having a heart attack and sent me home.

Since the doctor had ruled out a heart problem, I thought the jaw pain could be due to a joint issue, or that my glasses were too tight and pressing on a nerve. I made an appointment to see my GP on Monday.

On Sunday night, I woke up with intense chest pain and told my partner I was having a heart attack. They called an ambulance, and I was taken back to hospital.

When I was being wheeled down to the operating theatre, we passed my original doctor. He was very pale; he looked even worse than I felt!

The medical team put in a stent to help keep the blood vessel open and unblocked. I had to stay in the hospital for 7 days. I think the doctor who sent me home on the previous Friday wanted to be absolutely sure that I was alright.

It's been 8 months since my heart attack and I'm doing okay, but I've had to make some changes to my lifestyle (like eating a heart healthy diet and making sure I take my medications diligently) and I don't have the energy I used to.

I seriously considered selling my horse, Hunter, but I love him. I have agoraphobia (an anxiety disorder where you fear or avoid some social situations or places) and Hunter gets me out of the house every day, which is important for my mental health and overall wellbeing.

Getting older isn't always fun, but it's better than the alternative. I hope my story helps women realise that jaw pain can be a sign of something serious. The symptoms of a heart attack in women aren't always the same as those in men, so make sure you're informed and immediately seek help if you experience any signs of a heart attack.

Doctors and ambulance crews would rather have a false alarm than miss out on the chance for early diagnosis and treatment.