Stress and Heart Disease: What You Can Do to Improve Your Heart Health

Stress and Heart Disease: What You Can Do to Improve Your Heart Health

Working long hours, filling up free time, and taking on additional responsibilities is a way of life for Type A individuals everywhere. But when things get out of hand, when we don’t disconnect from news headlines or give ourselves a moment to breathe, we can get stressed out. If that stress becomes an everyday part of our lives, it can lead to serious health complications, especially with regard to heart health. Below, we discuss how stress can lead to heart disease and what you can do to manage the stress in your life. We know that these are unprecedented times. But as a Tampa heart specialist can tell you, making even small changes to your routine can have long-lasting, positive effects on your heart health.
How Stress Leads to Heart Disease
Stress has a very real effect on the body. When we experience stress, our bodies respond with a fight-or-flight response. Stress hormones flood the body. Breathing speeds up. Blood pressure rises. This a natural response, but our bodies are not meant to be in a constant state of alarm. In the short-term, stress can cause headaches, body aches, and stomach pain. Over time, stress contributes to heart disease through high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Stress may even increase the risk of a heart attack. Consult a heart doctor in Tampa if you are concerned that you are at risk of having a heart attack.

Related: Identifying Women’s Heart Attack Symptoms

How someone copes with stress can also have a negative impact on their heart health. Smoking, drinking alcohol, eating poorly, and being inactive are all common ways of dealing with stress, but they also lead to high blood pressure and damaged arteries. Overcoming stress and preventing heart disease requires a more permanent solution.
Reducing Stress in Your Life
Managing stress in your life isn’t just good for your heart health, it’s good for your overall health. There are numerous tips to lower stress. Here are just a few:

• Exercising regularly
• Quitting smoking
• Reducing alcohol consumption
• Sleeping regularly
• Eating Healthily

Stress can also be reduced through relaxation techniques, such as yoga and meditation. Alternatively, a mental health professional can teach a person to better control their body’s response to stress. It’s important to find the stress reduction technique that works best for you. Related: 5 Reasons to Undergo a Stress Test
Safeguarding Your Heart Health
In addition to the above tips, you can help prevent heart disease by visiting a heart doctor in Tampa. A heart doctor can lift the veil on your heart health by testing your blood, determining your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and developing a treatment plan if needed. If you’re interested in a long-term solution, schedule a consultation with the team at Ascent Cardiology Group. Our cardiovascular screening and counseling services can detect early warning signs and help you reduce the stressors that lead to heart disease.
To consult a Tampa heart specialist from Ascent Cardiology Group, please request an appointment today.
Disclaimer: The contents of this website are for general educational purposes only. All content and media on the Ascent Cardiology Group website does not constitute professional medical advice nor is the information intended to replace the services of Ascent Cardiology Group or other qualified medical professionals. If you believe you are having a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.

The content, views, and opinions communicated on this website do not represent the views of Ascent Cardiology Group. Reliance on any information provided by this website is solely at your own risk. Although this website contains links to other medical websites, this is strictly for informational purposes. Ascent Cardiology Group is not responsible nor do they approve of the content featured on any third party linked websites referenced on this website.
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What is Nuclear Cardiology?

Nuclear cardiology is a subspeciality of general cardiology that involves the use of radioactive substances and advanced medical imaging modalities in order to evaluate, diagnose, and treat heart conditions. Nuclear cardiologists are required to complete up to eight years of secondary education along with a residency program, followed by four years of study at Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) accredited university. Then, they must complete a nuclear cardiology residency program before finally obtaining certification from the Certification Board of Nuclear Cardiology (CBNC).

In this short article, we’ll provide a brief overview on common nuclear cardiology procedures and how they are used to measure and document the functioning of the heart and its related structures. If you’re looking for a cardiologist in Tampa Bay, look no further than Sachin Diwadkar, M.D., with Ascent Cardiology Group who is board certified in nuclear cardiology by the Council for the Certification of Cardiovascular Imaging (CCCVI) and CBNC.
Nuclear Stress Test
Myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI), otherwise known as a nuclear stress test, is the most common nuclear cardiology procedure. MPI is typically performed to demonstrate how well blood is able to flow through the heart muscle and how well the heart muscle is pumping. For example, an MPI may be performed after a heart attack to identify areas of damaged heart muscle.

During MPI, a small amount of an imaging agent called a radioactive tracer is injected intravenously into the bloodstream during rest and during exercise or chemical stress. The exercise can be in the form of walking on a treadmill or riding a stationary bicycle, whereas the chemical stress will be a drug, such as adenosine or dipyridamole. Typically, two scans are taken — one at rest and one in which the agent is injected during exercise or chemical stress. On the scan, the doctor is able to determine which areas of the heart are healthy because those areas would have absorbed the tracer. Any areas that didn’t absorb the tracer can be considered damaged, or lacking in good blood flow.

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Stress Tests
Cardiac SPECT
Single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) is another type of nuclear stress scan used to diagnose and assess coronary artery disease and cardiac ischemia. Similar to MPI, the test begins with an injection of a radioactive agent into your bloodstream. The agent gives off gamma rays that are then detected by imaging equipment, such as a gamma camera and an attached CT scanner. The resulting image, known as a PET scan, helps your doctor determine whether blood is flowing appropriately to your heart muscles and if your heart is functioning properly.

Cardiac positron emission tomography/computed axial tomography (PET-CT) is a variation of this test in which additional images and measurements are taken, including structural images of your arteries, a calcium score, and a measurement of blood flow to your heart muscle. Both SPECT and PET-CT tests are effective in predicting whether or not you would benefit from additional procedures, evaluating blood supply to damaged areas of the heart, and assessing whether you have coronary artery disease.

Related: What a Stress Test Can Say About Your Heart Health
Consult With a Cardiologist
What do all of these nuclear cardiology procedures have in common? They are preventative and minimally invasive techniques used to diagnose and assess heart conditions. Determining how much your heart can handle, via a nuclear stress test, is an essential step to take before deciding which method of medical treatment is right for you. That’s why, it’s time to consult with a board-certified cardiologist in Tampa, FL, equipped with years of experience in nuclear cardiology.

Dr. Diwadkar from Ascent Cardiology Group can vouch for the high rates of success of nuclear cardiology in the diagnosis and treatment of coronary artery disease. Any one of the noninvasive techniques listed above, as well as a number of others, can be used to assess myocardial blood flow, evaluate the heart’s ability to pump blood, and visualize the size and location of a previous heart attack. To learn more, please contact us today.
To consult a cardiologist in Tampa, FL, from Ascent Cardiology Group, please request an appointment today.
Disclaimer: The contents of this website are for general educational purposes only. All content and media on the Ascent Cardiology Group website does not constitute professional medical advice nor is the information intended to replace the services of Ascent Cardiology Group or other qualified medical professionals. If you believe you are having a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.

The content, views, and opinions communicated on this website do not represent the views of Ascent Cardiology Group. Reliance on any information provided by this website is solely at your own risk. Although this website contains links to other medical websites, this is strictly for informational purposes. Ascent Cardiology Group is not responsible nor do they approve of the content featured on any third party linked websites referenced on this website.
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Coronary Heart Disease: What Is It and How Is It Treated?

In addition to being the most common type of heart disease, coronary heart disease is the deadliest. In fact, it’s the deadliest disease in the world, killing 365,914 people in 2017. For these reasons and more, it’s important to understand what differentiates this type of heart disease from others. In this brief article, we will be discussing this topic and treatment options available to people in various stages of this disease. Because the first sign of coronary heart disease is often a heart attack, it’s important to consult a heart doctor in Tampa Bay if you are at all concerned with your heart health.
What Is Coronary Heart Disease?
Coronary heart disease, also known as coronary artery disease, ischemic heart disease, or simply heart disease, is one of a number of conditions that impairs the heart and its structure. Coronary heart disease occurs when plaque builds up in arteries. Overtime, this collection of fat, cholesterol, and calcium clogs arteries and inhibits blood flow to and from the heart. This process can take years, even decades.

Related: The Dangers of High Cholesterol

Signs of coronary heart disease include chest pain, also known as angina, and shortness of breath. Chest pain results from a lack of oxygen-rich blood reaching the heart, whereas shortness of breath results from a lack of oxygen-rich blood reaching the rest of the body. However, many people experience no symptoms at all until a blocked artery or blood clot caused by plaque build up leads to a heart attack. This is why it’s so important to consult a heart doctor in Tampa Bay if you believe you are at risk for coronary heart disease. There’s no telling how a person’s heart is affected until they consult a medical professional.
What Are Possible Treatment Options?
Treatment for coronary heart disease will depend on how far along the disease is. Those who are in early stages or who would like to prevent the disease could benefit from healthy lifestyle changes, such as smoking cessation, eating healthily, and exercising regularly. Those in more advanced stages of coronary heart disease can benefit from various medications and medical treatments to restore blood flow. Modern minimally invasive procedures can restore heart functions while ensuring faster recovery times and improved outcomes.

Related: 5 Reasons to Undergo a Stress Test

At Ascent Cardiology Group, our surgeons can perform cardiac catheterization to gain access to the heart, diagnose heart conditions, and perform surgical procedures, if necessary. We can also perform echocardiography and stress tests to assess the heart’s structure and function without the need for surgery. Although there are numerous diagnostic and treatment options available, they are only helpful when patients take the first step by scheduling an appointment with a heart doctor. If you are suffering from or believe you are suffering from coronary heart disease, schedule an appointment with Dr. Sachin Diwadkar, FACC, FASE, the best heart doctor in Tampa Bay, to get a clear picture of your heart health and what to do next.
To consult the best heart doctor in Tampa Bay from Ascent Cardiology Group, please request an appointment today.
Disclaimer: The contents of this website are for general educational purposes only. All content and media on the Ascent Cardiology Group website does not constitute professional medical advice nor is the information intended to replace the services of Ascent Cardiology Group or other qualified medical professionals. If you believe you are having a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.

The content, views, and opinions communicated on this website do not represent the views of Ascent Cardiology Group. Reliance on any information provided by this website is solely at your own risk. Although this website contains links to other medical websites, this is strictly for informational purposes. Ascent Cardiology Group is not responsible nor do they approve of the content featured on any third party linked websites referenced on this website.
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Maintaining Your Cardiovascular Health May Prevent Cognitive Decline

A research study recently published by Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that individuals with a higher risk for developing cardiovascular disease are likely to experience cognitive decline which may, in turn, lead to dementia. This is important because the evidence suggests that monitoring and controlling cardiovascular health may be the key to maintaining cognitive health later in life. In this brief article, a heart doctor in Tampa from Ascent Cardiology Group will review what actions you can take to maintain your heart health and prevent future cognitive decline.
Diet and Lifestyle
A healthy diet and lifestyle are your first line of defense against cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline. The American Heart Association recommends the following steps to reap the long-term benefits of a heart-healthy lifestyle.

• Eat a wide variety of nutrient-rich foods
• Limit saturated fats, sodium, red meat, and sugar-sweetened beverages
• Limit alcohol intake
• Adopt a physically active lifestyle
• Don’t smoke, vape, or use tobacco products

With regard to exercise, you should aim for at least one hundred and fifty minutes of moderate physical activity, seventy minutes of vigorous physical activity, or an equal combination of the two for each week, if possible. Harvard Health Publishing states that, in addition to relieving anxiety and depression, regularly engaging in an exercise program has been shown to improve cognitive function in those with memory problems or who carry the APOE4 gene variant for Alzheimer’s.

Related: The Dangers of High Cholesterol
Blood Pressure Control
High blood pressure is one of the most common risk factors for cardiovascular disease that often goes unnoticed and untreated. Uncontrolled high blood pressure hardens and thickens your arteries and puts additional strain on your blood vessels and organs, such as the brain and kidneys. It rarely has noticeable symptoms but, if left untreated, can significantly increase your risk for a number of life-threatening conditions, including heart attacks, heart failure, strokes, and vascular dementia.

While there is no cure for high blood pressure, there are lifestyle changes you can make to enhance your quality of life and reduce your risk for cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline. First and foremost, you should be regularly monitoring your blood pressure to remain alert to any changes or patterns. Then, through a combination of managing your stress, maintaining a healthy diet, and communicating with your healthcare provider, you can successfully live a heart-healthy life. Related: How High Blood Pressure Affects Your Heart and Body
Stress Management
Let’s be honest — managing the level of stress in your day-to-day life can be stressful. It’s impossible to control whether or not you’ll get stuck in traffic or experience the loss of a loved one; however, it’s important to understand how high levels of stress and your body’s reaction to it can increase your risk for cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline. In stressful situations, your body produces chemicals, such as cortisol and adrenaline, that can interfere with your sleep and appetite over time.

To reduce stress and stimulate your mind, try focusing on patterns of positive thought. Laughter has been found to reduce inflammation in the arteries and lower levels of stress chemicals. Similarly, exercise can lower your blood pressure and produce endorphins. All you need to do is find the right combination of techniques which work for you, whether it be meditating or playing a sport. For additional recommendations on what preventative measures may work best for you, contact a Tampa heart specialist from Ascent Cardiology Group today.
To consult with a Tampa heart specialist from Ascent Cardiology Group, please request an appointment today.
Disclaimer: The contents of this website are for general educational purposes only. All content and media on the Ascent Cardiology Group website does not constitute professional medical advice nor is the information intended to replace the services of Ascent Cardiology Group or other qualified medical professionals. If you believe you are having a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.

The content, views, and opinions communicated on this website do not represent the views of Ascent Cardiology Group. Reliance on any information provided by this website is solely at your own risk. Although this website contains links to other medical websites, this is strictly for informational purposes. Ascent Cardiology Group is not responsible nor do they approve of the content featured on any third party linked websites referenced on this website.
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5 Reasons to Undergo a Stress Test

A stress test is performed so that a cardiologist can assess the heart’s condition during exercise. During a stress test, otherwise known as an exercise test, a patient is hooked up to an electrocardiogram (ECG) monitor that evaluates the rhythm of the heart during exercise. As exercise will require the heart to work harder, a stress test can help reveal issues, blood flow, heart rhythm, and more.

In this article, a Tampa heart specialist will discuss five reasons why patients undergo a stress test. For excellent heart care, schedule an appointment with Ascent Cardiology Group.

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Stress Tests
Why Undergo a Stress Test?
If you have symptoms of chest pain or shortness of breath, you may be a candidate for a stress test. Five common reasons why a heart doctor in Tampa will conduct a stress test, include:
1) Assessing a Patient’s Blood Flow
A primary reason why a stress test is performed is to assess the patient’s blood and oxygen flow to their heart. A stress test can potentially diagnose medical conditions like coronary artery disease.
2) Assessing Heart Rhythm
During a stress test, a patient may have an irregular heartbeat or their heart rate might speed up or slow down. A cardiologist can assess the heart rhythm and determine if there are any underlying issues or risks related to their heart rhythm.
3) Confirming a Heart Condition
If a patient shows symptoms of any type of heart-related issue, including chest pain or trouble breathing, a stress test can help diagnose these issues. A stress test can also prevent future heart issues by effectively treating the patient at the first sign of symptoms.
4) Treating a Heart Condition
Even after a patient is diagnosed with a heart condition, a stress test can be a useful exercise to determine if the patient’s condition is improving. A stress test can also determine if additional procedures or treatment methods are needed to improve the patient’s condition.
5) Determine a Fitness Plan
Patients that are recovering from a heart condition or want to improve their health can undergo a stress test to learn more about how to safely participate in a daily exercise routine.

Related: Echocardiology and Stress Testing

Ascent Cardiology Group utilizes an evidence-based approach to diagnose and treat conditions of the heart. If you are interested in undergoing a stress test, or you want to improve your heart health, consult the best heart doctor in Tampa.
To consult a Tampa heart specialist from Ascent Cardiology Group, please request an appointment today.
Disclaimer: The contents of this website are for general educational purposes only. All content and media on the Ascent Cardiology Group website does not constitute professional medical advice nor is the information intended to replace the services of Ascent Cardiology Group or other qualified medical professionals. If you believe you are having a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.

The content, views, and opinions communicated on this website do not represent the views of Ascent Cardiology Group. Reliance on any information provided by this website is solely at your own risk. Although this website contains links to other medical websites, this is strictly for informational purposes. Ascent Cardiology Group is not responsible nor do they approve of the content featured on any third party linked websites referenced on this website.
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Preventative Cardiology

There are numerous factors that play into a person’s risk of developing heart disease. A poor diet and lack of physical activity can play a role, as can family history. Whether as a result of genetics or lifestyle factors, all risk factors must be accounted for in preventing heart disease. At Ascent Cardiology Group, our team is adept at screening for heart disease and counseling patients who are either trying to prevent heart disease or prevent further damage. If you are at risk for heart disease, a cardiologist in Tampa, FL, with Ascent Cardiology Group can work with you on safeguarding your heart health and ensuring a safer, brighter future for you.

Preventing heart disease begins with reviewing patients’ medical histories and accessing their immediate and future needs. In addition to conducting tests to gauge your heart health, a cardiologist in Tampa Bay will discuss your diet and recommend needed changes to reduce your risk of heart disease. Additional recommendations may include creating an exercise regime, avoiding triggers of stress, or quitting smoking. No two people are alike, which is why our preventative measures are tailored to the needs of every patient who comes through our doors.

A cardiologist in Tampa, FL, from Ascent Cardiology Group will also monitor your cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels. In addition to blood tests, we perform imaging tests to determine the full extent of a person’s heart health and influence personalized treatment plans. Our plans consist of:

• Nutrition Counseling
• Exercise Counseling
• Cholesterol Management
• Proper Hygiene Education
• Heart Disease Education
• Stress Management Education

Patients may follow up with a cardiologist as needed, and if medical intervention is needed, our team is prepared to perform the necessary steps to ensure our patients’ heart health, whether that means prescribing medications or performing surgery.

If you are concerned that your life may be impacted by heart disease, there’s no better time than now to put your heart health first. At Ascent Cardiology Group, our team can monitor your condition and take preventative measures to ensure that drastic measures can be avoided in the future. Preventing heart disease is a difficult but necessary endeavor for millions of Americans. Our team can and will support you as you take your first steps to lower your risk of heart disease.

Whether you’re struggling with lifestyle changes or have a family history of heart disease, we implore you to reach out to our team. Preventative cardiology at Ascent Cardiology Group can help ensure that you live a long and happy life — free from the dangers of heart disease.
To consult a cardiologist in Tampa Bay from Ascent Cardiology Group, please request an appointment today.
Disclaimer: The contents of this website are for general educational purposes only. All content and media on the Ascent Cardiology Group website does not constitute professional medical advice nor is the information intended to replace the services of Ascent Cardiology Group or other qualified medical professionals. If you believe you are having a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.

The content, views, and opinions communicated on this website do not represent the views of Ascent Cardiology Group. Reliance on any information provided by this website is solely at your own risk. Although this website contains links to other medical websites, this is strictly for informational purposes. Ascent Cardiology Group is not responsible nor do they approve of the content featured on any third party linked websites referenced on this website.
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Are People With Heart Disease at a Greater Risk for Coronavirus?

Those suffering from an underlying medical condition like heart disease are understandably concerned over the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19). The virus has made headlines around the world due to its rapid spread, but are people with heart disease really at a greater risk for coronavirus?

Below, Dr. Sachin Diwadkar, FACC, FASE, the best heart doctor in Tampa Bay, answers this question and provides medical advice on how you can protect yourself from infection. In addition to the advice provided throughout this article, the best thing you can do for your heart health is to remain calm, stay informed, and monitor your condition. For any questions or concerns regarding the coronavirus and your health, please don’t hesitate to contact your medical provider at Ascent Cardiology Group.
The Risk of Infection
The American Heart Association is reporting that elderly persons with coronary heart disease or hypertension are at a greater risk of contracting the disease and subsequently developing a serious illness. Although the virus attacks the lungs, it’s the lungs that provide the heart and body with needed oxygen. Furthermore, those with heart disease are more likely to have a weaker immune system. It’s for these reasons that as many as 40 percent of those hospitalized with the coronavirus had cardiovascular disease or cerebrovascular disease.

Related: Staying Active With Heart Disease
Avoiding Infection
The above information isn’t meant to alarm you but to illustrate the seriousness of the situation. Although people with heart disease are at a higher risk of serious complications from COVID-19, they can still take precautionary measures to protect themselves from infection. If you suffer from heart disease it is imperative that you:

Wash your hands: It’s believed that the coronavirus can survive for as long as three days on some surfaces. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and clean frequently touched surfaces often with disinfectant.

Practice social distancing: Although there is still debate on how exactly the virus is spread, it is known that it spreads mainly from person-to-person. Avoid group gatherings and stay indoors as much as possible.

Take your medications: Continue taking your medications as prescribed. Reach out to your heart doctor in Tampa Bay if you have less than a 30 day supply.
If You Begin Displaying Symptoms
If you begin displaying symptoms of the coronavirus (fever, cough, and shortness of breath), you should contact your heart doctor in Tampa Bay for medical advice. If your symptoms are mild, you may be able to recover at home. However, if you develop emergency warning signs of the coronavirus, you should seek immediate medical attention. Warning signs include difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, confusion or inability to arouse, and bluish lips or face.

Related: Understanding the Signs of Congestive Heart Failure

At Ascent Cardiology Group, we know that this is a difficult and stressful time for our patients. Although there’s still a lot that we still don’t know about the coronavirus, the situation can only improve as the virus is studied, treated, and eventually cured. The professionals at Ascent Cardiology Group will always be here to help you in any way we can.
To consult the best heart doctor in Tampa Bay from Ascent Cardiology Group, please request an appointment today.
Disclaimer: The contents of this website are for general educational purposes only. All content and media on the Ascent Cardiology Group website does not constitute professional medical advice nor is the information intended to replace the services of Ascent Cardiology Group or other qualified medical professionals. If you believe you are having a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.

The content, views, and opinions communicated on this website do not represent the views of Ascent Cardiology Group. Reliance on any information provided by this website is solely at your own risk. Although this website contains links to other medical websites, this is strictly for informational purposes. Ascent Cardiology Group is not responsible nor do they approve of the content featured on any third party linked websites referenced on this website.
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Everything You Need to Know About Stress Tests

If you have symptoms of chest pain or shortness of breath, a cardiologist may recommend that you undergo a stress test. In this article, the best cardiologist in Tampa will discuss the process a patient experiences when they participate in an exercise-based stress test. For heart care, consider consulting Ascent Cardiology Group.
What’s a Stress Test?
Although there are a variety of ways a stress test can be performed, most stress tests are conducted by having the patient walk on a treadmill or ride a stationary bike. For a treadmill-based stress test, the patient will begin the test by slowly walking on the treadmill. Over the course of 15 minutes, their workout will slowly ramp up as their heart rate increases over the course of the exercise. Generally, a stress test will begin with slow walking on level ground and eventually build up to a light jog.

During a stress test, a patient will be hooked up to electrocardiogram (ECG) monitors that measure the rhythm of their heart. While the patient is exercising during a stress test, the cardiologist will assess the patient’s heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, energy level, whether or not they show signs of discomfort, and other factors related to their heart condition. A doctor may request additional heart-related tests to be performed in conjunction with a stress test, including imaging tests to help determine if there’s a heart condition.
Understanding the Process
Stress tests are a relatively pain-free and noninvasive way for a cardiologist to assess the heart and any potential complications. Although stress tests are relatively safe, patients should be mindful that there are minimal risks associated with stress tests. It’s critical that you speak to your doctor about any heart-related symptoms you are experiencing before undergoing a stress test or any form of vigorous physical activity.

Here are a few tips for patients that elect to participate in a stress test:

Prepping: generally, there are certain requirements patients need to follow in order to participate in a stress test, including avoiding caffeine for at least the day of the stress test. Consult a cardiologist to learn more about what you can eat and drink before undergoing a stress test and the expectations of the test.

Dress Right: Considering that a stress test requires up to 15 minutes of exercise, patients should dress comfortably in sweatpants, sneakers, and other forms of athletic apparel.

Communicate With Your Doctor: it’s critical that patients effectively communicate with their doctor before, during, and after a stress test.

Before a test, a patient should be completely transparent with their doctor about their medical history.

During a stress test, if you feel you are developing heart-related symptoms, notify your doctor and stop exercising immediately.

Final Things to Consider: Once the best cardiologist in Tampa has assessed your medical condition using an evidence-based approach, they will provide you with your results and a treatment plan. Depending on your heart care needs, a cardiologist may provide you with goals to improve your heart health, notify you of any risks, or provide you with alternative options to treat a heart condition.
To consult the top cardiologists in Tampa Bay from Ascent Cardiology Group, please request an appointment today.
Disclaimer: The contents of this website are for general educational purposes only. All content and media on the Ascent Cardiology Group website does not constitute professional medical advice nor is the information intended to replace the services of Ascent Cardiology Group or other qualified medical professionals. If you believe you are having a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.

The content, views, and opinions communicated on this website do not represent the views of Ascent Cardiology Group. Reliance on any information provided by this website is solely at your own risk. Although this website contains links to other medical websites, this is strictly for informational purposes. Ascent Cardiology Group is not responsible nor do they approve of the content featured on any third party linked websites referenced on this website.
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Understanding the Signs of Congestive Heart Failure

When oxygen or blood flow to the heart decreases, heart failure can occur. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 6.5 million Americans experience heart failure on an annual basis. In 2017, heart failure contributed to one in eight deaths. If you have an existing medical condition like coronary artery disease (CAD), high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, or another heart-related medical condition, the chances of congestive heart failure can greatly increase. In this article, the professionals at Ascent Cardiology Group will discuss the signs of congestive heart failure and your options for treatment. For heart care, schedule an appointment with the best cardiologist in Tampa Bay.
The Signs of Heart Failure
The symptoms of heart failure can begin suddenly or be a persistent issue. Signs of heart failure include:

• Wheezing or shortness of breath
• Swelling, especially in the legs, feet, or ankles
• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Struggling to breathe when lying down
• Coughing up phlegm
• Significant weight gain
• Stomach swelling
• Lack of focus or concentration on tasks
• Inability or struggle to exercise

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, schedule an appointment with a cardiologist in Tampa, FL. For severe chest pain, fainting spells, or a rapid or irregular heartbeat, seek immediate medical attention.
How a Cardiologist Can Help
Heart failure is a common problem for individuals that have experienced other heart-related conditions. Heart failure can be caused by a variety of other heart conditions like coronary artery disease, myocarditis, abnormal heart rhythms, or a problematic valve. Also, both sides of the heart are susceptible to heart failure. Along with mitigating risk factors that increase the chances of heart failure, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or alcohol and tobacco use, individuals experiencing mild symptoms of heart failure should schedule an appointment with a cardiologist for diagnosis and treatment.

An experienced cardiologist in Tampa, FL, will review a patient’s medical history, assess their symptoms, and perform tests to assess their heart condition. Some common forms of testing include:

• Physical examinations
• Blood tests
• Stress testing
• Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) testing
• Chest X-rays
Dedicated to Long-Term Treatment
Patients experiencing the symptoms of a chronic disease like heart failure will need lifelong treatment. A cardiologist will provide patients with a comprehensive treatment plan that aims to improve heart health and mitigate the chances of heart failure. This includes prescribing medications that improve the function of the heart, recommending health-focused lifestyle changes, monitoring the patient’s progress, and offering noninvasive and surgical options to effectively treat any issues linked to heart failure.

From accurate diagnosis to effective treatment, a cardiologist can help you detect signs related to heart failure, determine the underlying cause of these symptoms, and develop a comprehensive treatment plan to help prevent or reduce the signs of heart failure.
To consult a cardiologist in Tampa Bay from Ascent Cardiology Group, please request an appointment today.
Disclaimer: The contents of this website are for general educational purposes only. All content and media on the Ascent Cardiology Group website does not constitute professional medical advice nor is the information intended to replace the services of Ascent Cardiology Group or other qualified medical professionals. If you believe you are having a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.

The content, views, and opinions communicated on this website do not represent the views of Ascent Cardiology Group. Reliance on any information provided by this website is solely at your own risk. Although this website contains links to other medical websites, this is strictly for informational purposes. Ascent Cardiology Group is not responsible nor do they approve of the content featured on any third party linked websites referenced on this website.
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The Dangers of High Cholesterol

Having high cholesterol raises your risk of heart disease, yet, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only “slightly more than half of the U.S. adults (55%, or 43 million) who could benefit from cholesterol medicine are currently taking it.” Considering that heart disease and stroke are the leading causes of death on the planet, it’s crucial that people who are at risk of developing high cholesterol take the necessary steps to prevent or address it.

Below, we discuss the dangers of high cholesterol and how you can take steps to improve your heart health. If you are concerned that high cholesterol is impacting your life, schedule an appointment with the best heart doctor in Tampa Bay from Ascent Cardiology Group. Just one checkup could end up saving your life.
Good and Bad Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a fatty substance that can be found in blood and all throughout the body. Believe it or not, cholesterol isn’t necessarily bad and is actually necessary for the production of cells. There’s good cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), that takes excess cholesterol and bad cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), back to the liver to be metabolized. It’s only when you have too much LDL or too little HDL that this essential substance becomes hazardous to your health.
Reduced Blood Flow and Complications
When your cholesterol levels are abnormal, cholesterol begins to build up in the form of plaque in your arteries, which restricts blood flow. Over time, arteries become narrower and less flexible, leading to a condition known as atherosclerosis. There is the additional danger that plaque can block an artery and cause a heart attack or stroke.
Preventing and Reducing High Cholesterol
Normally, a person with high cholesterol experiences little to no symptoms, which is why it’s so important to schedule a blood test with a heart doctor in Tampa Bay and to be mindful of risk factors that could increase your chances of developing high cholesterol. While family history does play a role in high cholesterol, it’s also linked to:

• Poor Diet
• Inactive Lifestyle
• Obesity
• Smoking

Preventing high cholesterol means addressing the above issues if any of them apply to you. By embracing an active lifestyle, many people can reduce their risk of heart disease. However, cholesterol medications can be employed if lifestyle changes have not led to reduced cholesterol levels. The only way to be sure that the right approach is taken is to schedule an appointment with the best heart doctor in Tampa Bay.

As mentioned above, a blood test is the only sure-fire way to detect cholesterol. Once diagnosed, the professionals at Ascent Cardiology Group can recommend lifestyle changes, prescribe medication, and monitor your progress. The path to a healthy heart can be difficult, but with a heart doctor in Tampa Bay by your side, you’ll find that a life free from the worries of heart disease is within reach. Put your mind at ease by scheduling a blood test at Ascent Cardiology Group.
To consult a heart doctor in Tampa Bay from Ascent Cardiology Group, please request an appointment today.
Disclaimer: The contents of this website are for general educational purposes only. All content and media on the Ascent Cardiology Group website does not constitute professional medical advice nor is the information intended to replace the services of Ascent Cardiology Group or other qualified medical professionals. If you believe you are having a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.

The content, views, and opinions communicated on this website do not represent the views of Ascent Cardiology Group. Reliance on any information provided by this website is solely at your own risk. Although this website contains links to other medical websites, this is strictly for informational purposes. Ascent Cardiology Group is not responsible nor do they approve of the content featured on any third party linked websites referenced on this website.
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