Electrophysiologist brings connection, empathy and a tailored approach to her practice

Megan E. Gruber, D.O., joins Norton Heart & Vascular Institute and brings her unique perspective on electrophysiology.

According to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in women. Approximately 1 in 4 women will develop atrial fibrillation (AF), and women with AF are at greater risk for stroke than men who have it.

Megan E. Gruber, D.O., brings her expertise in electrophysiology and cardiovascular care to the Norton Heart & Vascular Institute Women’s Heart Program, tailoring her approach to all patients —with special consideration for women.

“Women are more likely to experience atypical symptoms than men, and they may not understand how their sex may affect their risk for heart disease,” Dr. Gruber said.

Heart disease symptoms in women

To save lives, it is critical that women understand their risks for heart disease, including heart attack and arrythmias. While many of these signs are similar to men’s, women’s are often overlooked or attributed to other causes. Throughout a woman’s lifetime she also may experience unique, sex-specific risk factors — associated with pregnancy, hormones and menopause — that have implications for her risk of cardiovascular disease.

Heart health for women

Heart arrhythmias in women often have different symptoms than in men. While chest pain or discomfort is a common sign, women are more likely to experience a range of other symptoms, including nausea, anxiety or struggling to breathe while lying flat.

“Women are told, ‘It’s just stress,’ or, ‘It’s your age,’” Dr. Gruber said. “But if we increase awareness of these symptoms in our patients, we can improve health outcomes across the board.”

Targeted approach to women’s health

According to Dr. Gruber, a tailored approach to electrophysiology is essential for all patients.

According to a study by the American Heart Association, symptoms experienced during arrhythmias differ by gender. Women were more likely to report symptoms, including greater frequency of palpitations, chest discomfort, fatigue, headache and shortness of breath when experiencing an arrhythmia.

The study also found that women were more likely to report symptoms during premature atrial contractions (PAC) and supraventricular tachycardia, (SVT) while men were more likely to report symptoms during AF.

“Women are much more likely to experience atypical symptoms of cardiac rhythm disorders,” Dr. Gruber said. “As a female electrophysiologist, I’m particularly aware of the importance in listening to patients and recognizing these clues.”

Refer a patient

To refer a patient to the Heart Rhythm Center, visit NortonEpicCareLink.com and open an order for electrophysiology.

Refer online

Call (888) 4-U-NORTON/(888) 486-6786

About Dr. Gruber

Dr. Gruber is a clinical cardiac electrophysiologist with Norton Heart & Vascular Institute. Dr. Gruber completed a cardiology fellowship at Aultman Hospital in Canton, Ohio, and an electrophysiology fellowship at MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland, Ohio. She is board certified in echocardiography and nuclear medicine.

Dr. Gruber provides outpatient and inpatient care for cardiac patients who experience arrhythmias. She focuses on providing individualized care for patients with a foundation of clear communication and strives to help her patients understand their conditions and the available treatment options. Outside of work, Dr. Gruber finds balance and inspiration through several activities that enrich her practice. For example, she is an animal lover.

“I recently adopted a rescue puppy who makes me laugh and keeps me on my toes,” she said.

A native of Ohio, she is enjoying Louisville and looking forward to exploring more.

“I am so incredibly grateful for my education, training and for the close connections that I develop with patients and [their] family members as we work through some of their most critical cardiac issues,” Dr. Gruber said. “I truly have the best and most rewarding job in the world.”


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