Articles

OVERVIEW If you are looking for a doctor that uniquely specializes in diseases and conditions of the heart and blood vessels, you want to see a cardiologist. A cardiologist goes through four years of medical school and then three years of training in general medicine before spending three years or more

OVERVIEW A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is suddenly interrupted. When the brain lacks sufficient blood flow for a long enough period of time, brain damage or even death can result. Immediate medical attention and early treatment are critical to helping minimize damage to brain tissue

OVERVIEW Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a condition that can lead to serious health problems, such as coronary heart disease, heart failure, stroke, kidney failure, and other health problems. Most people with high blood pressure are unaware, since the symptoms can stay below notice

OVERVIEW Whether you're getting ready for your first visit or your tenth, it's always important you know what you should do to prepare for your next trip to the cardiologist. After all, you want to get the most from your appointment, and that means preparing ahead of time. Here are some things to consider

OVERVIEW If there is a concern that you have a slow, fast or irregular heartbeat, your cardiologist may recommend wearing a Holter monitor. This portable device is worn continuously for about 24 to 48 hours or longer, depending on the type of monitoring needed. The device is small and attaches to your

OVERVIEW Heart rhythm conditions are often a sign of an underlying issue, and may even pose problems in themselves. So what are some of the most common heart rhythm conditions? Atrial Fibrillation Atrial fibrillation (AF) occurs when the atria, or upper chambers of the heart, begin to beat out of sync

OVERVIEW We've all heard the dreaded names ­ heart attack and heart failure. So what sets these two frightening conditions apart? Heart Attack A heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction, occurs when a blood clot develops at the site of plaque in a coronary artery, suddenly cutting off most

OVERVIEW Are you experiencing frequent lightheadedness or fainting spells? Unsure what might be causing these issues? Then your cardiologist may recommend a tilt table test, sometimes known as a passive head-­up tilt test (HUTT). This procedure is used to record both your blood pressure and heart rate

OVERVIEW Heart disease is the number one killer of both men and women worldwide. According to the American Heart Association, about 2,150 Americans die each day from heart disease or stroke. This equates to one person dying every 40 seconds. Your cardiologist can determine your risk of developing heart

OVERVIEW Cardiomyopathy is a broad term that refers to a disease of the heart muscle. The heart muscle becomes enlarged, thick, or abnormally rigid, and as cardiomyopathy progresses, the heart becomes weaker. Cardiomyopathy can lead to heart rhythm problems, heart failure, and sudden cardiac arrest. Symptoms

OVERVIEW Did you know that about one in every 13 adult Americans has coronary artery disease? It occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart start to narrow and harden. The narrowing is caused by a buildup of cholesterol, or plaque, on the walls of the arteries (a process known as atherosclerosis).

OVERVIEW Angina is chest pain or discomfort that occurs when heart muscles don't receive enough oxygen-­rich blood flow. Symptoms of angina include a feeling of pressure or squeezing pain in the chest. The pain may also appear in the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, upper abdomen or back. Why Worry About