By Migdalia Merida, MD, Lead Physician for Harper Health Sarasota
As a Concierge primary care physician with a passion for preventive care, I often find myself sitting across from women who don’t realize the heart is their most vital ally—until something goes wrong. Cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of women, causing 1 in 3 deaths each year, according to the American Heart Association.1 Yet, the narrative surrounding women’s heart health often feels overshadowed by other wellness conversations. It’s time to change that.
Over the past decades, studies have highlighted significant differences in how heart disease manifests in women.
While chest pain is a common symptom of a heart attack in both genders, women can experience unusual fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, back pain or even jaw pain as warning signs, but they’re often dismissed. That’s why awareness is crucial.
So, what can women do to protect their hearts? First, know your numbers. The importance of regular screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar are of vital importance. These are key indicators of heart health. But numbers alone won’t keep your heart healthy.
Lifestyle choices play a pivotal role. The power of consistent physical activity—aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. A Mediterranean diet, rich in vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins, can also reduce heart disease risk.
Stress management is another essential component. Chronic stress can have many long-term effects on the heart. Stress can lead to an increase in Cortisol levels, which can impact your blood sugar, Blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Consider mindfulness techniques such as yoga, meditation, or even a simple daily walk to ease your mind.
Lastly, prioritize regular check-ups with your physician. Too often, women put their own health last. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Prevention begins with understanding your unique risks and taking proactive steps to safeguard your heart.
Your heart is your power. Let’s honor it by giving it the care and attention it deserves.
About Harper Health Concierge Primary Care
Harper Health is a concierge primary care practice where we support our patients’ mind, body, and spirit. We provide our patients with a full picture of their health by offering 24/7 direct access to board-certified physicians, same-day or next-day appointments, and in-suite testing and labs. We support our patients’ heart health by providing several health assessments, including in-office EKGs, cholesterol testing, comprehensive blood work (with insulin and inflammatory markers), body composition analysis for visceral fat, and Vo2 max testing to evaluate cardiovascular fitness and endurance.
About Migdalia Merida, MD
Dr. Migdalia Merida birthplace is New York, she is an internal medicine doctor in Florida and has over 28 years of experience in the medical field. She attended New York University where she graduated with a degree in biology. That then lead to Rutgers New Jersey Medical School in 1994 where she earned her medical degree. She then completed an internal medicine residency at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston.
After 14 years of invaluable experience in the emergency room, Dr. Merida embarked on an adventurous chapter, accepting challenging doctor assignments in the picturesque Pacific Northwest. Here, she honed additional medical expertise in a different setting, embracing the beauty of the region while ensuring the provision of crucial healthcare services to those in need.
Beyond the medical realm, she is an avid advocate for physical fitness. Equally passionate about home decor, Migdalia enjoys creating spaces that reflect her personality and offer a comforting retreat. However, amidst all these interests, Migdalia cherishes moments spent with her partner John and their beloved two pups. Family and companionship are anchors in Dr. Merida’s life, providing balance and solace in a demanding profession.
Harper Health Concierge Primary Care
(239) 522-7540
www.harperhealth.com
Midtown Medical Park
1219 South East Ave, Suite 310
Sarasota, FL 34239
1. The American Heart Association’s. (n.d.). The Facts about Women
and Heart Disease. www.goredforwomen.org.
https://www.goredforwomen.org/en/about-heart-disease-in-
women/facts