Why Women Benefit from Female Cardiologists
When we think of a heart attack, an immediate image comes to mind. We imagine a middle-aged man clutching his chest, eyes, and face contorted in pain while in the throes of cardiac arrest. For decades, heart disease was seen as something associated with men despite evidence to the contrary. However, recent studies show that women are also at risk for heart disease. Recent evidence shows that women are 15% more likely to die of a heart attack than men.
There is a common myth that women are protected against heart disease, which is the number one reason that women are less likely to be referred for further testing and treatment. Before menopause, a woman’s risk of heart disease remains low, but smoking and alcohol intake may increase it. Other factors like lifestyle and diet can contribute to an even greater risk. Younger women experiencing premenopause experience a decrease in estrogen, a chemical responsible for moderating blood pressure in the endothelial wall during the reproductive years.
Menopause symptoms, such as weight gain, increase the risk of cardiovascular disease among women. During the postmenopausal years, your blood pressure may rise, and your cholesterol could increase. Fatty tissue can grow around the heart and put you at risk for sudden cardiac arrest.
Why a Female Heart Doctor is Important for Women
Recent data demonstrates several reasons why women need a female cardiologist. Having one may improve your heart health. A female doctor, on average, has a much better understanding of women’s health issues than most men. A female cardiologist understands the complexities of menopause and the toll it puts on women. A woman doctor can better understand a woman’s body and any subtle cues women give when experiencing symptoms. It takes a woman to understand the ordinary stresses that most women face. A female doctor better understands childbirth, motherhood, and the unique challenges of menopause. Therefore, they know the distinctive symptoms of heart disease experienced by women.
Because women’s symptoms of heart disease differ from men’s, it pays to see a female specialist. They understand these challenges and will work with you to develop a treatment plan and lifestyle change that puts you on the path to better health. Other health issues such as weight gain, diabetes, and high blood pressure put women at risk for heart disease. These issues, combined with ordinary stressors most women face, are what a female heart specialist best understands.
Certain signs women may experience once include angina, which is subtle pain or discomfort in the chest. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, nausea, vomiting, sudden abdominal pain, back pain, or pain in the neck, throat, or jaw. If you experience any of these symptoms, please don’t hesitate to call our office in Fort Lauderdale today.
Our Services
Di Pietro Health offers premium concierge cardiology care to meet women’s unique needs. As an internist and a cardiologist, Dr. Tiffany Di Pietro understands the value of comprehensive, preventive care services for her patients. She knows what women need in health care, and that’s a doctor who listens. Our concierge care package includes comprehensive exams and 24/7 access to your doctor anytime. You can reach Dr. Di Pietro by phone or text anytime with questions or concerns about your treatment and care.
Dr. Di Pietro specializes in adult primary care, chronic disease management and education, and preventive care. Her knowledge of cardiovascular disease treatment and care includes blood pressure monitoring, diabetes management, and limiting cholesterol levels. At Di Pietro Health, our team can diagnose and treat heart disease in women of all ages. Call us today for an appointment with one of our specialists.