Comparison of signs and symptoms Presentation in mens and womens with myocardial infarction in mashhad hospitals.

Introduction: Myocardial infarction is the leading cause of death in Iran and the world. Differences in signs and symptoms sometimes delay the diagnosis. This study aims at comparing clinical signs and symptoms of acute myocardial infarction in men and women.

Materials and Method:  This analytic - descriptive research was carried out on 110 patients (36 women and 74 men) with MI experience who referring in emergency wards of Imam Reza (PBUH) and Ghaem hospitals. The subjects were selected randomly sampling. Data were collected from sample forms, individual information forms the pain characteristics record forms, electrocardiogram and laboratory forms, pain numerical rating scale, Mc-Melzac pain questioner and electrocardiogram machine.

Results:  The results showed that Chest pain was the most common initial symptom in both men and women so that 77% of women and 89% of men complained of chest pain. Intensity of infarction angina in women was more rigorous than men (P=0.04) .Quality of pain described as sharp pain by most women and burning pain by men (P=0.01). Concerning accompanying signs, 63% of women and 75%, 55%of men reported sweat and nausea respectively which was not significant difference (P= 0.1).For other symptom (shortness of breath) chi square showed significant difference (P=0.03). Pain was reported to spread to back and left shoulder in most women and to left shoulder in most men. 

Conclusion: findings showed that women who have MI are different on comparing by men from view of intensity, quality and location of pain.