Congestive Heart Failure Symptoms: Warning Signs and When to Seek Care

Congestive Heart Failure Symptoms: Warning Signs and When to Seek Care

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a chronic condition that affects millions of people and occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently enough to meet the body’s needs. Although heart failure is a serious medical condition, early detection and proper treatment can significantly improve quality of life and reduce the risk of complications.

Understanding the warning signs of congestive heart failure can help patients seek medical care early and prevent disease progression.

Common Symptoms of Congestive Heart Failure

The symptoms of congestive heart failure can vary depending on the severity of the condition and which part of the heart is affected. Symptoms often develop gradually but may worsen suddenly in advanced stages.

Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath is one of the most common symptoms of heart failure. Patients may notice difficulty breathing during physical activity, while lying flat, or during sleep. Fluid buildup in the lungs can make breathing more difficult and may cause nighttime coughing or wheezing.

Fatigue and Weakness

Reduced blood flow caused by heart failure can limit oxygen delivery to muscles and organs, resulting in persistent fatigue and decreased exercise tolerance.

Swelling in Legs, Ankles, or Abdomen

Fluid retention, also known as edema, frequently occurs in heart failure. Patients may notice swelling in the lower extremities or abdominal bloating due to fluid accumulation.

Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat

The heart may attempt to compensate for reduced pumping ability by beating faster or irregularly. Some patients experience palpitations or fluttering sensations in the chest.

Persistent Cough or Wheezing

Fluid accumulation in the lungs may cause chronic coughing, wheezing, or production of white or pink-tinged mucus.

Sudden Weight Gain

Rapid weight gain caused by fluid retention may indicate worsening heart failure and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Reduced Ability to Exercise

Patients with heart failure may notice difficulty performing activities that were previously easy due to fatigue and shortness of breath.

Early Warning Signs of Heart Failure

Recognizing early symptoms of congestive heart failure is critical for preventing disease progression. Early signs may include:

  • Mild shortness of breath during activity
  • Occasional swelling in the legs or feet
  • Increased fatigue
  • Difficulty sleeping flat without extra pillows

  • Decreased exercise tolerance

Patients experiencing early warning signs should consider evaluation by a cardiologist to determine the underlying cause.

Causes and Risk Factors for Congestive Heart Failure

Several medical conditions can increase the risk of developing congestive heart failure.

Coronary Artery Disease

Narrowed or blocked coronary arteries reduce blood flow to the heart muscle and are the most common cause of heart failure.

High Blood Pressure

Uncontrolled hypertension forces the heart to work harder, eventually weakening the heart muscle.

Previous Heart Attack

Damage caused by a heart attack can reduce the heart’s ability to pump effectively.

Heart Valve Disease

Abnormal heart valves can disrupt blood flow and strain the heart.

Cardiomyopathy

Diseases affecting heart muscle structure and function can lead to heart failure.

Diabetes and Obesity

Metabolic conditions increase cardiovascular strain and contribute to heart failure risk.

When to Seek Medical Care

Early medical evaluation can help prevent heart failure complications and improve long-term outcomes.

Patients should contact a healthcare provider if they experience:

  • Persistent shortness of breath
  • Unexplained fatigue
  • Swelling in legs or abdomen
  • Sudden weight gain
  • Frequent nighttime coughing

Seek Emergency Medical Care Immediately If You Experience:

  • Severe chest pain
  • Difficulty breathing at rest
  • Fainting or dizziness
  • Sudden confusion
  • Symptoms of heart attack or stroke

Treatment Options for Congestive Heart Failure

Although congestive heart failure is a chronic condition, treatment can help manage symptoms, improve heart function, and slow disease progression.

Lifestyle Modifications

Patients are often advised to:

  • Follow a low-sodium heart-healthy diet
  • Maintain regular physical activity
  • Monitor body weight daily
  • Limit alcohol consumption
  • Avoid smoking
  • Manage stress levels

Medication Therapy

Medications may be prescribed to:

  • Reduce fluid retention
  • Improve heart pumping ability
  • Lower blood pressure
  • Prevent blood clots

Advanced Treatment Options

Some patients may benefit from:

  • Implantable cardiac devices
  • Minimally invasive cardiac procedures
  • Advanced heart failure management programs

Congestive Heart Failure Care in Tampa, Florida

Patients living in Tampa and surrounding communities—including South Tampa, Hyde Park, Davis Islands, Carrollwood, Westchase, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg—can benefit from specialized heart failure evaluation and management.

At Ascent Cardiology, patients receive comprehensive heart failure screening, advanced cardiac imaging, and personalized treatment plans designed to improve long-term cardiovascular outcomes.

To consult a cardiologist in Tampa Bay from Ascent Cardiology, please request an appointment today.

Medical Disclaimer

The content provided on the Ascent Cardiology website is intended for general educational and informational purposes only. The information, articles, and media presented on this website do not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Content published on this website is not intended to replace consultation, evaluation, or treatment by qualified healthcare professionals, including the providers at Ascent Cardiology or other licensed medical professionals.

If you believe you may be experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate emergency medical care.

The medical information, opinions, and educational materials presented on this website are provided for general awareness and may not reflect the specific clinical practices or medical opinions of Ascent Cardiology or its providers. Reliance on any information provided on this website is solely at your own risk.

This website may include links to third-party medical or educational websites for informational purposes only. Ascent Cardiology does not control, endorse, or assume responsibility for the accuracy, reliability, or content of any third-party websites linked from this site.

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High Cholesterol Risks: Why It’s Dangerous and How to Lower It

High cholesterol is one of the most common and often silent risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Millions of adults have elevated cholesterol levels without experiencing symptoms, yet untreated high cholesterol can significantly increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other serious cardiovascular complications.

Understanding the dangers of high cholesterol and learning how to manage it effectively can help protect long-term heart health and reduce cardiovascular risk.

What is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a fatty substance found in the blood that plays an essential role in building healthy cells, producing hormones, and supporting normal bodily functions. However, excessive cholesterol can accumulate in blood vessels and form plaque, which restricts blood flow and increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Cholesterol is transported through the bloodstream by two main types of lipoproteins:

Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) Cholesterol

LDL cholesterol is often referred to as “bad cholesterol” because it contributes to plaque buildup in arteries. Elevated LDL levels increase the risk of coronary artery disease and stroke.

High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Cholesterol

HDL cholesterol is known as “good cholesterol” because it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and transport it to the liver for removal.

Maintaining balanced cholesterol levels is critical for cardiovascular health.

Why High Cholesterol Is Dangerous

High cholesterol contributes to plaque buildup inside arteries, a process known as atherosclerosis. As plaque accumulates, arteries become narrowed and stiff, reducing blood flow to vital organs.

Over time, this process can lead to serious health complications.

Increased Risk of Heart Attack

When plaque ruptures inside coronary arteries, blood clots may form and block blood flow to the heart muscle, causing a heart attack.

Increased Risk of Stroke

Plaque buildup in arteries supplying the brain can lead to stroke by blocking blood flow or forming clots that travel to the brain.

Peripheral Artery Disease

Reduced blood flow to limbs may cause pain, mobility issues, and circulation problems.

Increased Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

High cholesterol is one of the primary contributors to coronary artery disease, which remains the leading cause of death in the United States.

Symptoms of High Cholesterol

High cholesterol rarely causes noticeable symptoms, which is why it is often called a “silent” condition. Many individuals do not realize they have elevated cholesterol until cardiovascular complications occur.

Risk Factors for High Cholesterol

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing high cholesterol.

Lifestyle risk factors

  • Poor diet high in saturated fats and processed foods
  • Physical inactivity
  • Obesity or excess body weight
  • Smoking and tobacco use
  • Excessive alcohol consumption

Medical risk factors

  • Diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • Metabolic syndrome
  • Chronic kidney disease

Genetic risk factors

Some individuals inherit genetic conditions such as familial hypercholesterolemia, which causes extremely high cholesterol levels at a young age.

How to Lower High Cholesterol

Managing cholesterol levels typically involves lifestyle modifications, medication therapy, and preventative cardiology care.

Follow a Heart-Healthy Diet

A balanced diet plays a major role in lowering cholesterol levels. Patients are encouraged to:

  • Eat fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
  • Choose lean protein sources such as fish and poultry
  • Increase intake of healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids
  • Limit saturated fats and trans fats
  • Reduce processed foods and sugar-sweetened beverages

Exercise Regularly

Physical activity helps raise HDL cholesterol while lowering LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Health experts recommend:

  • At least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise weekly
  • Strength training exercises several times per week

Maintain Healthy Weight

Weight management helps improve cholesterol levels and reduces cardiovascular strain.

Stop Smoking

Smoking lowers HDL cholesterol and damages blood vessels. Quitting tobacco significantly improves cardiovascular health.

Limit Alcohol Consumption

Excess alcohol can increase triglyceride levels and contribute to cardiovascular risk.

Medications for High Cholesterol

When lifestyle changes alone are not sufficient, physicians may prescribe medications to reduce cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risk.

Common medications include:

  • Statins
  • Cholesterol absorption inhibitors
  • PCSK9 inhibitors
  • Triglyceride-lowering therapies

Medication therapy is tailored to individual cardiovascular risk profiles.

Preventative Cardiology and Cholesterol Management

Preventative cardiology focuses on early detection and long-term management of cardiovascular risk factors. Regular cholesterol screening allows healthcare providers to identify elevated levels early and implement personalized treatment plans.

Preventative cardiology strategies help:

  • Reduce risk of heart attack and stroke
  • Improve long-term cardiovascular outcomes
  • Identify underlying heart disease early
  • Promote healthy lifestyle habits

High Cholesterol Care in Tampa, Florida

Individuals living in Tampa and surrounding communities—including South Tampa, Hyde Park, Davis Islands, Carrollwood, Westchase, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg—can benefit from comprehensive cholesterol evaluation and preventative cardiology services.

At Ascent Cardiology, patients receive advanced cardiovascular screening, lipid management, and personalized treatment plans designed to reduce long-term heart disease risk.

Early detection and cholesterol management are critical components of cardiovascular prevention.

When Should You See a Cardiologist?

You should consider cardiology evaluation if you:

  • Have elevated cholesterol levels
  • Have family history of heart disease
  • Have multiple cardiovascular risk factors
  • Experience chest discomfort or shortness of breath
  • Want comprehensive cardiovascular risk assessment

Schedule a Cholesterol Screening and Cardiovascular Evaluation

Early detection and treatment of high cholesterol can significantly reduce cardiovascular risk and improve long-term heart health. Patients concerned about cholesterol levels should consider scheduling a preventative cardiology evaluation.

Patients in Tampa Bay can schedule a consultation with Sachin Diwadkar MD, FACC, FASE, at Ascent Cardiology to receive comprehensive cholesterol screening and personalized cardiovascular risk management.

To consult a heart doctor in Tampa Bay from Ascent Cardiology, please request an appointment today.

Medical Disclaimer

The content provided on the Ascent Cardiology website is intended for general educational and informational purposes only. The information, articles, and media presented on this website do not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Content published on this website is not intended to replace consultation, evaluation, or treatment by qualified healthcare professionals, including the providers at Ascent Cardiology or other licensed medical professionals.

If you believe you may be experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate emergency medical care.

The medical information, opinions, and educational materials presented on this website are provided for general awareness and may not reflect the specific clinical practices or medical opinions of Ascent Cardiology or its providers. Reliance on any information provided on this website is solely at your own risk.

This website may include links to third-party medical or educational websites for informational purposes only. Ascent Cardiology does not control, endorse, or assume responsibility for the accuracy, reliability, or content of any third-party websites linked from this site.

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Cardiomyopathy: the Precursor to Heart Failure

Cardiomyopathy refers to a range of diseases that affect the heart. Symptoms can vary greatly from patient to patient, and in some cases, an individual may not experience any symptoms despite the onset of cardiomyopathy. The early signs of cardiomyopathy can be subtle yet telling — sudden breathlessness in the middle of the night, swelling in the ankles, uncharacteristic fatigue. You might feel inclined to blame it on the stress of work or a subpar diet, but unless you consult a Tampa Bay heart doctor to diagnose your condition, you’ll never truly know if cardiomyopathy is at the root of your symptoms.

At Ascent Cardiology Group, we recognize that any medical condition affecting the heart should be addressed in its earliest stages to prevent further damage to this vital organ. Individuals with cardiomyopathy may not exhibit symptoms during the early stages; however, if left untreated, cardiomyopathy can lead to heart failure, a potentially fatal condition. Don’t be afraid to seek help for your heart problem. The best heart doctor in Tampa Bay, Dr. Sachin V. Diwadkar, FACC, FASE, of Ascent Cardiology Group, is standing by to answer all of your questions about cardiomyopathy.
Common Types of Cardiomyopathy
No two people will experience the exact same symptoms from cardiomyopathy. A patient’s age, medical history, genetics, and lifestyle can all play a role in the development of cardiomyopathy. The most common types of cardiomyopathy are dilated cardiomyopathy, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and restrictive cardiomyopathy.

Dilated cardiomyopathy occurs when the left ventricle becomes dilated and loses the ability to efficiently pump blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the result of heart muscle that has become too thick, making it difficult to pump blood efficiently. When the heart muscle loses elasticity and starts to become stiff, it is known as restrictive cardiomyopathy. There is also a form of cardiomyopathy referred to as arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia; however, this type of cardiomyopathy is much rarer as it is typically the result of genetic mutations.
Symptoms
Remember, not all patients with cardiomyopathy will experience noticeable symptoms. But as this condition advances, the likelihood of symptoms will increase. Furthermore, symptoms that are left untreated will typically grow more severe over time. Common symptoms include:

• Bloating caused by fluid buildup in the abdomen
• Bouts of coughing when lying down
• Breathlessness during periods of activity and rest
• Fainting
• Hard or rapid heart beats
• Sudden dizziness or lightheadedness
• Swelling of the legs, ankles, and feet
• Uncomfortable chest pressure
Causes
There are many potential causes of cardiomyopathy, including high blood pressure, connective tissue disorders, heart valve problems, damaged heart tissue, and metabolic disorders. Certain lifestyle decisions can also lead to cardiomyopathy. For example, smoking, drinking, using cocaine or other amphetamines, and anabolic steroids have all been linked to cardiomyopathy. Other causes are completely out of an individual’s control, like pregnancy complications. A Tampa Bay heart doctor can help you diagnose the root of your issue to help effectively treat cardiomyopathy and other related diseases or disorders.
Manage Cardiomyopathy With a Tampa Bay Heart Doctor
Living with cardiomyopathy doesn’t have to limit your quality of life. At Ascent Cardiology Group, it is our goal to help patients overcome their heart-related condition using the latest treatment modalities designed to provide patients with low-risk, long-term solutions. Whether your condition requires medication, a surgically implanted device (i.e. implantable cardioverter-defibrillator [ICD], ventricular assist device [VAD], or pacemaker), nonsurgical procedures, or surgery (i.e., septal myectomy), our experienced team of cardiologists is standing by to guide you every step of the way.
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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Heart Murmurs: When They’re Harmless and When to See a Cardiologist

Heart murmurs are common findings during routine physical exams and can occur in both children and adults. In many cases, heart murmurs are harmless and do not indicate underlying heart disease. However, certain heart murmurs may signal structural heart abnormalities or cardiovascular conditions that require medical evaluation.

Understanding the difference between innocent heart murmurs and potentially serious murmurs can help patients determine when cardiology evaluation is necessary.

What Is a Heart Murmur?

A heart murmur is an unusual sound heard during a heartbeat. Normally, heartbeats produce two distinct sounds caused by heart valves opening and closing. A murmur occurs when blood flows through the heart in a way that creates additional sounds, such as whooshing or swishing noises.

Heart murmurs are typically detected using a stethoscope during a physical examination.

Types of Heart Murmurs

Heart murmurs are generally classified into two categories: innocent murmurs and abnormal murmurs.

Innocent Heart Murmurs

Innocent murmurs, also known as functional or physiologic murmurs, are harmless and do not indicate heart disease. These murmurs may occur when blood flows more rapidly through the heart, such as during:

  • Exercise
  • Pregnancy
  • Fever
  • Anemia
  • Growth and development in children

Innocent murmurs typically do not cause symptoms or require treatment.

Abnormal Heart Murmurs

Abnormal murmurs may indicate structural or functional heart problems, including:

  • Heart valve disease
  • Congenital heart defects
  • Cardiomyopathy
  • Infection of the heart valves (endocarditis)
  • Narrowed or leaking heart valves

Abnormal murmurs often require further evaluation to determine the underlying cause.

Symptoms That May Accompany a Concerning Heart Murmur

Although some murmurs cause no symptoms, patients with abnormal murmurs may experience:

  • Chest discomfort
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Swelling in legs or abdomen
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Reduced exercise tolerance

If these symptoms occur, medical evaluation is recommended.

What Causes Heart Murmurs?

Heart murmurs are typically caused by abnormal blood flow through the heart. Several medical conditions can contribute to murmurs.

Heart Valve Disease

Heart valves regulate blood flow between heart chambers. Narrowed (stenotic) or leaking (regurgitant) valves can produce abnormal blood flow sounds.

Congenital Heart Defects

Some individuals are born with structural abnormalities that affect heart blood flow.

Cardiomyopathy

Thickened or weakened heart muscle may disrupt normal circulation and cause murmurs.

High Blood Flow States

Conditions such as anemia, fever, or pregnancy may increase blood flow velocity and produce innocent murmurs.

Infection of Heart Valves

Infective endocarditis can damage heart valves and create abnormal murmurs.

When Should You See a Cardiologist for a Heart Murmur?

While many heart murmurs are harmless, evaluation by a cardiologist may be necessary if:

  • A murmur is newly detected
  • The murmur changes over time
  • Symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath occur
  • There is known heart disease or valve disorder
  • There is family history of heart abnormalities
  • The murmur is accompanied by abnormal ECG or imaging results

Early evaluation helps identify underlying heart conditions and prevent complications.

How Heart Murmurs Are Diagnosed

Cardiologists use several diagnostic tests to evaluate heart murmurs and determine whether treatment is needed.

Echocardiography

Echocardiography is the most common test used to evaluate heart murmurs. This ultrasound imaging provides detailed visualization of heart valves, chambers, and blood flow patterns.

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

An ECG records electrical activity of the heart and may detect arrhythmias or structural abnormalities.

Cardiac Stress Testing

Stress tests evaluate heart function and blood flow during physical activity or medication-induced stress.

Advanced Cardiac Imaging

Cardiac CT or MRI imaging may be used in certain cases to evaluate complex structural abnormalities.

Treatment Options for Heart Murmurs

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the murmur.

Monitoring and Observation

Innocent murmurs typically require no treatment and may simply be monitored over time.

Medication Therapy

Medications may be prescribed to treat underlying conditions such as heart failure, high blood pressure, or arrhythmias.

Valve Repair or Replacement

Severe valve disease may require minimally invasive or surgical valve repair or replacement procedures.

Heart Murmur Evaluation in Tampa, Florida

Individuals living in Tampa and surrounding communities—including South Tampa, Hyde Park, Davis Islands, Carrollwood, Westchase, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg—can benefit from advanced heart murmur evaluation and preventative cardiology services.

At Ascent Cardiology, patients receive comprehensive cardiovascular screening, echocardiography, and advanced cardiac imaging designed to detect structural heart disease early and guide personalized treatment strategies.

Schedule a Heart Murmur Evaluation

Heart murmurs are often harmless but can sometimes signal underlying heart disease. Early cardiology evaluation helps determine whether further testing or treatment is needed.

Patients in Tampa Bay can schedule a consultation with Sachin Diwadkar, MD, FACC, FASE, at Ascent Cardiology for comprehensive heart murmur evaluation and personalized cardiovascular care.

Medical Disclaimer

The content provided on the Ascent Cardiology website is intended for general educational and informational purposes only. The information, articles, and media presented on this website do not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Content published on this website is not intended to replace consultation, evaluation, or treatment by qualified healthcare professionals, including the providers at Ascent Cardiology or other licensed medical professionals.

If you believe you may be experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate emergency medical care.

The medical information, opinions, and educational materials presented on this website are provided for general awareness and may not reflect the specific clinical practices or medical opinions of Ascent Cardiology or its providers. Reliance on any information provided on this website is solely at your own risk.

This website may include links to third-party medical or educational websites for informational purposes only. Ascent Cardiology does not control, endorse, or assume responsibility for the accuracy, reliability, or content of any third-party websites linked from this site.

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Your Leg and Arm Pain Could Indicate a More Severe Heart-Related Illness

If you experience pain in your legs or arms while exercising, your discomfort might not be the result of too many reps or muscle strain from trying to set a new personal record. Rather, your pain may be indicative of a condition affecting the blood vessels, known as claudication. Claudication, sometimes referred to as intermittent claudication, occurs when blood flow to the legs (or arms) is restricted. Most patients first notice the pain associated with claudication during routine exercise, but it can also be made apparent during periods of rest if left untreated.

Surprisingly, claudication isn’t technically a disease. It’s actually a symptom of a disease — peripheral artery disease. Although treatable, peripheral artery disease is a potentially serious condition that restricts the ability of your blood vessels to circulate blood. This limits the amount of blood flowing to your legs and arms, which creates complications for those hoping to maintain an active and pain-free lifestyle. In this article, we’ll detail everything you need to know about claudication, including its symptoms and causes. If you believe that the pain in your legs and arms can be attributed to claudication, consult a cardiologist in Tampa from Ascent Cardiology Group to discuss your treatment options.
Symptoms
The symptoms of claudication are mainly pain-related, so it’s essential that you pay attention to what your body is telling you and avoid excessive strain. When your body says enough is enough, take a break and allow yourself to recover. The most common symptom of claudication is pain during exercise, which can occur in your feet, calves, thighs, hips, buttocks, or, less commonly, arms. Claudication will lead to pain in whichever area of your body is experiencing narrowing arteries or arterial damage.

But what about people who don’t exercise or live a largely sedentary lifestyle? For these people, intermittent pain may still be felt during less-strenuous activities like shopping or gardening. The longer claudication goes untreated, the more apparent the pain will become. For instance, individuals may feel pain in their legs or back while sitting or lying down in the later stages of claudication. Discolored skin or ulcerations can also occur in those with severely restricted blood flow, leading to sores on the legs, feet, toes, arms, or fingers. If you notice that your toes or fingers have taken on a bluish hue or feel cold or clammy, you should consult a cardiologist in Tampa.
Causes
As we mentioned above, claudication is most often a symptom of peripheral artery disease, a disease that causes atherosclerosis in the arms or legs. Narrowed arteries cannot facilitate the flow of blood throughout the body and only get worse over time as fat, cholesterol, and other atherosclerotic plaques further clog the arteries. The body’s complex circulation system is like a series of highways designed to eliminate “traffic,” or congestive elements that restrict blood flow. Atherosclerosis is like a traffic jam. Too much atherosclerosis and the whole system starts to drag, resulting in less oxygenated blood in the places you need it most.

Atherosclerosis and, by extension, peripheral artery disease, are the main causes of claudication, but there are other potential causes, too. Spinal stenosis, peripheral neuropathy and, certain musculoskeletal conditions can also lead to claudication. There are many factors that can increase your risk of developing atherosclerosis and, therefore, claudication, including:

• Age: 50+ (Smokers and Diabetics)
• Age: 70+
• Diabetes
• Family History
• High Cholesterol
• High Blood Pressure
• Obesity (BMI > 30)
• Smoking

If you are experiencing pain in your arms or legs, you may be suffering from a type of pain known as claudication. Consult a cardiologist in Tampa, FL, to learn more about diagnosis and treatment. In the meantime, you can take some simple steps to control your condition, such as:

• Eat Healthy (Reduce Saturated Fat)
• Quit Smoking
• Reduce Your Cholesterol and • Blood Pressure Levels
• Regulate Your Body Weight
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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What Your Family History Says About Your Heart Health

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. While smoking, stress, and diet are clear risk factors, family history must also be taken into account when determining if a person is at an increased risk of developing this deadly condition.

Below, we discuss how family history — your genes and upbringing — is a key indicator in determining your risk of developing heart disease. If your parents, siblings, or close relatives have been afflicted with heart disease, consider seeking a heart specialist in Tampa Bay who can diagnose your condition.
It Runs in the Family
When looking at your family history, start with your immediate family and work your way back. Did your parents or siblings suffer from a heart attack or stroke at a young age (55 or younger for men, 65 or younger for women)? Even if your parents were spared, if a grandparent suffered from heart disease, it could indicate that you are at an increased risk of developing heart disease. In addition to heart attack and stroke, consider scheduling an appointment with a cardiologist if any of the following heart diseases are present in your family history:

• Congenital Heart Disease
• Coronary Artery Disease
• Cardiomyopathy
• Heart Failure
• Heart Valve Disease
• Abnormal Heart Rhythms

Inherited risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol can also lead to heart disease and may shed light on who in your family is susceptible to developing a heart-related problem. For assistance in diagnosing and treating these conditions, consult a Tampa heart specialist from Ascent Cardiology Group.
Looking at Environmental Factors
Remember, family history is a combination of your genes and upbringing. The environment your family shares has an impact on your risk of developing heart disease. For example, if you come from a low-income family that was unable to afford healthy food, this may lead to heart disease later in life.

There are, of course, other characteristics that are beyond your control, such as your age, sex, and race or ethnicity. All of these risk factors can stack up and make it seem like heart disease is inevitable, but the only way to know for sure is to contact a Tampa heart specialist who can set your mind at ease and determine what treatment, if any, is right for you.
Consult a Cardiologist
At Ascent Cardiology Group, we can employ several noninvasive procedures, such as a stress test or transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE), to make a diagnosis and determine once and for all if you are at risk or suffering from heart disease. These same-day procedures allow our cardiologists to immediately diagnose the conditions of the heart. From there, we can develop a treatment plan and take any necessary steps to ensure your heart health is preserved. If you are concerned that your family history puts you at risk of developing heart disease, take a precautionary step and schedule an appointment with Sachin Diwadkar, M.D., of Ascent Cardiology Group.
To consult a heart specialist 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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Staying Active With Heart Disease: Safe Exercise Tips and Benefits

Staying physically active is one of the most important ways to improve heart health—even for individuals living with heart disease. Regular exercise can strengthen the heart muscle, improve circulation, reduce cardiovascular risk factors, and enhance overall quality of life. However, patients with heart disease often wonder whether physical activity is safe and how to exercise properly without increasing health risks.

Understanding how to stay active safely with heart disease can help patients maintain long-term cardiovascular wellness while reducing complications.

Is Exercise Safe for People with Heart Disease?

For most individuals with heart disease, regular physical activity is not only safe but strongly recommended. Exercise helps improve heart efficiency, lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, and support healthy weight management.

However, exercise programs should be tailored to each individual’s medical condition, fitness level, and treatment plan. Patients should consult a cardiologist before beginning or modifying an exercise routine.

Benefits of Exercise for Heart Disease

Consistent physical activity provides numerous cardiovascular and overall health benefits, including:

Improved Heart Function

Exercise strengthens the heart muscle and improves blood circulation throughout the body.

Lower Blood Pressure

Regular physical activity helps reduce strain on blood vessels and supports healthy blood pressure levels.

Improved Cholesterol Levels

Exercise can increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.

Weight Management

Maintaining a healthy body weight reduces cardiovascular strain and lowers heart disease risk.

Improved Mental Health

Exercise helps reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while improving overall emotional well-being.

Reduced Risk of Future Cardiac Events

Regular physical activity lowers the risk of heart attack, stroke, and disease progression.

Safe Types of Exercise for Heart Disease

Most patients with heart disease benefit from moderate-intensity aerobic exercise combined with strength training and flexibility exercises.

Aerobic Exercise

Aerobic activities improve cardiovascular endurance and circulation. Examples include:

  • Walking
  • Cycling
  • Swimming
  • Light jogging
  • Low-impact aerobic classes
Strength Training
Strength training helps improve muscle tone and metabolic health. Patients should focus on light resistance training under medical guidance.
Flexibility and Balance Exercises
Activities such as stretching, yoga, and tai chi improve flexibility, reduce injury risk, and support overall wellness.

How Much Exercise Is Recommended?

The American Heart Association recommends:

  • At least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per week
  • Or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic exercise weekly
  • Muscle-strengthening activities at least two days per week

Exercise routines should be introduced gradually and adjusted based on individual tolerance and medical advice.

Tips for Exercising Safely With Heart Disease

Patients can reduce exercise-related risks by following several important safety guidelines:

Start Slowly

Gradually increase exercise intensity and duration to allow the heart to adapt.

Warm Up and Cool Down

Proper warm-up and cool-down routines help regulate heart rate and prevent injury.

Stay Hydrated

Adequate hydration supports circulation and temperature regulation.

Avoid Extreme Temperatures

Exercising in very hot or cold conditions can place additional strain on the cardiovascular system.

Follow Medical Advice

Patients should follow individualized exercise recommendations provided by their cardiologist.

Warning Signs to Stop Exercising

Patients with heart disease should stop exercising and seek medical evaluation if they experience:

  • Chest pain or pressure
  • Severe shortness of breath
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Irregular or rapid heartbeat
  • Unusual fatigue
  • Pain in arms, jaw, or neck

Recognizing these warning signs helps prevent serious complications.

The Role of Cardiac Rehabilitation

Cardiac rehabilitation programs provide medically supervised exercise, education, and lifestyle counseling for individuals recovering from heart attacks, heart surgery, or chronic heart disease. These programs help patients safely rebuild strength and improve cardiovascular fitness.

Who Should Talk to a Cardiologist Before Exercising?

Patients should consult a cardiologist before starting exercise if they have:

  • History of heart attack
  • Heart failure
  • Atrial fibrillation or arrhythmias
  • Coronary artery disease
  • Valve disease
  • Cardiomyopathy
  • Recent cardiac procedures or surgery

Personalized exercise plans improve safety and long-term cardiovascular outcomes.

Staying Active With Heart Disease in Tampa, Florida

Patients living in Tampa and surrounding communities—including South Tampa, Hyde Park, Davis Islands, Carrollwood, Westchase, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg—can benefit from comprehensive cardiovascular evaluation and exercise counseling.

At Ascent Cardiology, patients receive advanced cardiovascular screening, stress testing, and personalized exercise recommendations designed to improve long-term heart health and reduce cardiovascular risk.

Preventative cardiology care plays an essential role in helping patients stay active safely.

Lifestyle Changes That Support Exercise Success

Exercise is most effective when combined with other heart-healthy lifestyle habits, including:

  • Following a balanced, low-sodium diet
  • Maintaining healthy body weight
  • Avoiding tobacco use
  • Managing stress
  • Getting adequate sleep
  • Controlling blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels

Schedule a Cardiovascular Exercise Evaluation

Exercise is one of the most powerful tools for improving heart health, but safety and personalization are essential. Patients with heart disease should consider cardiology evaluation before beginning or modifying an exercise routine.

Patients in Tampa Bay can schedule a consultation with Sachin Diwadkar, MD, FACC, FASE, at Ascent Cardiology for comprehensive cardiovascular evaluation and personalized exercise guidance.

Medical Disclaimer

The content provided on the Ascent Cardiology website is intended for general educational and informational purposes only. The information, articles, and media presented on this website do not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Content published on this website is not intended to replace consultation, evaluation, or treatment by qualified healthcare professionals, including the providers at Ascent Cardiology or other licensed medical professionals.

If you believe you may be experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate emergency medical care.

The medical information, opinions, and educational materials presented on this website are provided for general awareness and may not reflect the specific clinical practices or medical opinions of Ascent Cardiology or its providers. Reliance on any information provided on this website is solely at your own risk.

This website may include links to third-party medical or educational websites for informational purposes only. Ascent Cardiology does not control, endorse, or assume responsibility for the accuracy, reliability, or content of any third-party websites linked from this site.

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How Diabetes Doubles Your Heart Disease Risk

Diabetes is one of the most significant risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Individuals with diabetes are two to four times more likely to develop heart disease compared to those without diabetes. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels, increase inflammation, and accelerate plaque buildup in arteries, leading to serious cardiovascular complications.

Understanding how diabetes affects heart health can help patients take proactive steps to reduce risk and protect long-term cardiovascular wellness.

How Diabetes Affects the Cardiovascular System

Several metabolic and vascular changes associated with diabetes increase cardiovascular risk.

Damage to Blood Vessel Walls

High blood sugar levels damage the inner lining of arteries, allowing cholesterol and inflammatory cells to accumulate more easily.

Increased Plaque Formation

Diabetes accelerates plaque buildup inside coronary arteries, restricting blood flow to the heart muscle.

Abnormal Cholesterol Levels

Many individuals with diabetes develop low HDL cholesterol and high triglycerides, which further increase cardiovascular risk.

Increased Blood Clot Risk

Diabetes increases the likelihood of clot formation, which can block arteries and cause heart attack or stroke.

Coexisting Risk Factors

Diabetes is often associated with obesity, hypertension, and metabolic syndrome, all of which contribute to cardiovascular disease.

Cardiovascular Conditions Linked to Diabetes

Diabetes increases the risk of several serious heart and vascular conditions.

Coronary Artery Disease

Narrowing of coronary arteries reduces blood flow to the heart and increases the risk of heart attack.

Heart Failure

Diabetes can weaken the heart muscle and reduce its ability to pump blood efficiently.

Stroke

Reduced blood flow to the brain or clot formation can cause stroke.

Peripheral Artery Disease

Poor circulation to limbs can lead to pain, mobility limitations, and increased infection risk.

Symptoms of Heart Disease in People With Diabetes

Heart disease symptoms may be less noticeable in individuals with diabetes. Some patients experience atypical symptoms or no symptoms at all until complications occur.

Possible warning signs include:

  • Chest discomfort or pressure
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Swelling in legs or feet
  • Reduced exercise tolerance

Because symptoms may be subtle or absent routine cardiovascular screening is especially important for individuals with diabetes.

Preventing Heart Disease in Patients With Diabetes

Managing diabetes effectively can significantly reduce cardiovascular risk. Prevention strategies typically involve lifestyle modifications, medication therapy, and preventative cardiology care.

Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Cardiovascular Risk

Maintain Blood Sugar Control

Consistent blood glucose management helps protect blood vessels and reduce inflammation.

Follow a Heart-Healthy Diet

Patients should focus on:

Exercise Regularly

Regular physical activity improves insulin sensitivity, lowers blood pressure, and supports weight management.

Health experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise weekly.

Maintain Healthy Body Weight

Weight management reduces cardiovascular strain and improves metabolic control.

Avoid Smoking

Smoking accelerates vascular damage and significantly increases cardiovascular risk.

Manage Stress

Chronic stress contributes to inflammation and metabolic instability, increasing heart disease risk.

Medication Management for Diabetes and Heart Disease Prevention

Many patients require medication therapy to control blood sugar and cardiovascular risk factors. These may include:

  • Glucose-lowering medications
  • Blood pressure medications
  • Cholesterol-lowering medications
  • Antiplatelet therapies

Treatment plans are individualized based on each patient’s cardiovascular risk profile.

Importance of Preventative Cardiology for Diabetes Patients

Preventative cardiology focuses on early detection of cardiovascular disease and long-term risk management. Regular cardiovascular screening helps identify heart disease before symptoms develop.

Preventative cardiology services may include:

  • Lipid panel testing
  • Blood pressure monitoring
  • Coronary calcium scoring
  • Stress testing
  • Echocardiography
  • Cardiac CT imaging
Early detection allows for more effective treatment and improved long-term outcomes.

Diabetes and Heart Disease Care in Tampa, Florida

Patients living in Tampa and surrounding communities—including South Tampa, Hyde Park, Davis Islands, Carrollwood, Westchase, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg—can benefit from comprehensive cardiovascular risk evaluation and preventative cardiology services.

At Ascent Cardiology, patients receive advanced cardiovascular screening, metabolic risk assessment, and personalized treatment strategies designed to reduce heart disease risk and improve long-term cardiovascular health.

When Should People With Diabetes See a Cardiologist?

Individuals with diabetes should consider cardiology evaluation if they:

  • Have multiple cardiovascular risk factors
  • Experience symptoms such as chest discomfort or shortness of breath
  • Have abnormal cholesterol or blood pressure levels
  • Have family history of heart disease
  • Want comprehensive cardiovascular screening

Early evaluation helps identify heart disease before complications develop.

Schedule a Cardiovascular Risk Evaluation

Diabetes significantly increases the risk of heart disease, but early detection and preventative care can greatly improve long-term outcomes. Patients with diabetes should consider regular cardiovascular screening and risk assessment.

Patients in Tampa Bay can schedule a consultation with Sachin Diwadkar, MD, FACC, FASE, at Ascent Cardiology for comprehensive cardiovascular evaluation and personalized heart disease prevention strategies.

Medical Disclaimer

The content provided on the Ascent Cardiology website is intended for general educational and informational purposes only. The information, articles, and media presented on this website do not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Content published on this website is not intended to replace consultation, evaluation, or treatment by qualified healthcare professionals, including the providers at Ascent Cardiology or other licensed medical professionals.

If you believe you may be experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate emergency medical care.

The medical information, opinions, and educational materials presented on this website are provided for general awareness and may not reflect the specific clinical practices or medical opinions of Ascent Cardiology or its providers. Reliance on any information provided on this website is solely at your own risk.

This website may include links to third-party medical or educational websites for informational purposes only. Ascent Cardiology does not control, endorse, or assume responsibility for the accuracy, reliability, or content of any third-party websites linked from this site.

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What a Stress Test Can Say About Your Heart Health

An exercise stress test shows how hard your heart is working during physical activity. By making your heart work harder, this test can reveal abnormalities that may be vital for the detection and prevention of heart disease. Below, we will discuss the importance of stress tests and how they are administered by Dr. Sachin Diwadkar, FACC, FASE, and the team of cardiologists at Ascent Cardiology Group. If you are concerned with your heart health and wish to undergo a stress test, consult a specialist in interventional cardiology in Tampa from Ascent Cardiology Group.
What Happens During a Stress Test?
A stress test consists of attaching a heart monitor to a patient and having them walk on a treadmill. As the test progresses, the treadmill will incline and gain speed, similar to walking up a hill. The test continues until a target heart rate is reached. In addition to asking you how you feel during the test, a cardiologist will record your heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, and electrical activity of the heart. At Ascent Cardiology Group, we take this test one step further by also employing transthoracic echocardiography for quick and painless visualization of the heart. Using ultrasounds, this method allows us to immediately diagnose cardiac abnormalities that would otherwise go undetected.
Is a Stress Test Safe?
A stress test is relatively risk-free and only as dangerous as a bike ride or walk up a hill would be. Medical professionals are always on hand to ensure that patient safety is a priority and to stop the test if at any point you feel uncomfortable. Preparation for this test is also relatively simple. A cardiologist will ask that you wear comfortable clothing and shoes. They may ask that you forgo eating, drinking, smoking, or taking certain medicines before the test.
What Will a Stress Test Reveal?
Despite the simplicity of a stress test, it can provide your cardiologist with a wealth of information regarding your heart health. A stress test can be used to diagnose coronary artery disease or the underlying cause of chest pain, shortness of breath, or lightheadedness. It can even be used to discern a patient’s risk of a heart attack. Additionally, a stress test says how much exercise your heart can handle, an important piece of knowledge to have for creating an exercise regimen to manage the effects of heart disease. What can a stress test say about your heart health? Quite a bit.
Have an Interventional Cardiologist Administer Your Stress Test
What a stress test says about your heart health is important because a central component of interventional cardiology is using preventative measures and minimally invasive techniques to treat heart disease. If your cardiologist can determine how much your heart can handle, they can determine how best to proceed with medical treatment. If the results of your stress test are of concern, your cardiologist may recommend cardiac catheterization, an advanced procedure to diagnose and treat conditions of the heart.

When in search of the best interventional cardiologist in Tampa, turn to a cardiologist who can not only administer your stress test but who also possesses the medical knowledge and expertise to develop the appropriate treatment plan following your test. Dr. Diwadkar is certified to perform all forms of echocardiography and stress testing.
To consult the best interventional cardiologist in Tampa, 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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7 Ways to Keep Your Child’s Heart Healthy: What Every Parent Should Know

We usually think of heart disease as a problem for adults. But the process that leads to heart attacks and strokes, plaque building up in the arteries, can begin in childhood. Habits formed early, such as how kids eat, move, and sleep, tend to follow them into adulthood. The good news is that the steps you take today to keep your child’s heart healthy can protect them for life.

About 1 in 5 U.S. children and teens has obesity, according to the CDC, and many have high blood pressure, high cholesterol or prediabetes without anyone knowing. Here are seven practical ways parents can help.

1. Get Them Moving Every Day

Physical activity strengthens the heart, helps control weight, blood pressure and blood sugar, and improves mood, sleep and focus in school.

The American Heart Association recommends:

  • Ages 3 to 5: Plenty of active play throughout the day
  • Ages 6 to 17: At least 60 minutes a day of moderate to vigorous activity, mostly aerobic, with vigorous activity and muscle- and bone-strengthening activity at least 3 days a week

Tips for parents: Activity doesn’t have to mean organized sports. Bike rides, swimming, dancing, playing tag and walking the dog all count. Kids are more active when their parents are too, so plan active family time. See our guide to heart-healthy exercises for ideas that work for the whole family.

2. Build Heart-Healthy Eating Habits and Cut Sugary Drinks

A heart-healthy diet for kids includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts, fish and lean proteins, with fewer processed foods, salty snacks, and sweets.

Added sugar deserves special attention. The AHA recommends that children and teens get no more than 25 grams (about 6 teaspoons) of added sugar a day. Children under 2 shouldn’t have added sugars at all. Sugary drinks should be limited to no more than one 8-ounce serving a week.

Tips for parents:

  • Make water and milk the default drinks. A single can of soda can exceed a child’s daily sugar limit.
  • Watch for hidden sugar in flavored yogurts, cereals, granola bars, and sports drinks.
  • Eat family meals together when you can, and involve kids in shopping and cooking.
  • Limit fast food and highly processed snacks, which are often high in salt as well as sugar.

3. Make Sleep a Priority

Sleep is essential for a healthy heart. Too little sleep in children is linked to weight gain, higher blood pressure and problems with blood sugar, as well as trouble concentrating and managing emotions. The AHA now includes sleep as one of its key measures of heart health.

General sleep needs, including naps for younger children:

  • Ages 3 to 5: 10 to 13 hours
  • Ages 6 to 12: 9 to 12 hours
  • Ages 13 to 18: 8 to 10 hours

Tips for parents: Keep consistent bedtimes, even on weekends, and keep phones, tablets and TVs out of the bedroom. Loud snoring with pauses in breathing can be a sign of sleep apnea, which is worth discussing with your pediatrician.

4. Limit Screen Time and Sitting

Hours of sitting in front of screens displaces active play, encourages snacking and can interfere with sleep. Too much sedentary time is linked to higher weight and blood pressure in children.

Tips for parents:

  • Set daily limits for recreational screen time and create screen-free zones, such as the dinner table and bedrooms.
  • Encourage a movement break at least every hour during homework or gaming.
  • Turn off screens at least an hour before bed.
  • Model the habits you want to see. Kids notice how much time parents spend on their phones.

5. Know Your Family History and Check Your Child's Cholesterol

Your family’s heart history is one of the most important clues to your child’s risk. Tell your child’s pediatrician if any close relative has had:

  • A heart attack, stent or bypass before age 55 in men or 65 in women
  • Very high cholesterol, especially LDL above 190 mg/dL
  • Sudden, unexplained death at a young age, including drowning or a car accident with no clear cause
  • Inherited heart conditions such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, long QT syndrome or other rhythm disorders

Cholesterol screening. Guidelines support checking every child’s cholesterol once between ages 9 and 11 and again between 17 and 21, and as early as age 2 if there’s a family history of early heart disease or very high cholesterol. Yet only about 11% of young people ages 9 to 21 are screened.

Screening matters because of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), an inherited condition that causes very high LDL cholesterol from birth. It affects about 1 in 250 people, but fewer than 10% are diagnosed. Untreated, FH raises the risk of heart disease about 20-fold, and the first sign can be a heart attack in early adulthood. When FH is found in childhood, treatment, including statins when needed, is safe and can dramatically lower lifelong risk. If a parent has FH, each child has a 50% chance of inheriting it. Learn more about inherited high cholesterol in children from the American Academy of Pediatrics.

6. Protect Them From Tobacco, Vaping and Secondhand Smoke

Secondhand smoke damages children’s blood vessels and is linked to lower good cholesterol and higher heart risk. Vaping is now far more common among teens than smoking. E-cigarettes deliver nicotine, which raises heart rate and blood pressure and is highly addictive to developing brains.

Tips for parents: Keep your home and car smoke-free and vape-free. Talk with your kids early and often about vaping, and if you smoke or vape, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your whole family’s health.

7. Keep Up With Checkups and Know the Warning Signs

Regular well-child visits are a chance to check growth, weight, blood pressure and heart sounds. Blood pressure is typically checked at well visits starting around age 3. High blood pressure in children often causes no symptoms, so routine checks matter. Learn how high blood pressure damages your body.

Before playing organized sports, children and teens should have a pre-participation physical that reviews their personal and family heart history. Our post on athlete’s heart explains what’s normal in young athletes and when to worry.

Warning Signs in Children: When to Call the Doctor

Most chest pain in children isn’t heart-related, but some symptoms always deserve medical attention. Contact your child’s doctor promptly if your child has:

  • Fainting or near-fainting during or right after exercise, which is never normal
  • Chest pain during exercise
  • A racing or pounding heartbeat that comes on suddenly, especially with dizziness
  • Shortness of breath or fatigue that’s out of proportion to activity, or a child who can’t keep up with peers
  • A new heart murmur
  • Poor feeding, sweating with feeding or poor weight gain in an infant
  • Swelling of the legs, feet or around the eyes

Call 911 if a child collapses and isn’t breathing normally. Start CPR and use an AED immediately. Learn the warning signs of life-threatening cardiac emergencies. Every parent, coach and caregiver can benefit from learning hands-only CPR.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can children really have heart disease? Yes. Some children are born with heart defects, and others develop inherited conditions such as familial hypercholesterolemia or cardiomyopathy. Even in healthy children, the early stages of plaque buildup can begin in childhood, especially with obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes.

At what age should my child’s cholesterol be checked? Guidelines support a check once between ages 9 and 11 and again between 17 and 21. If there’s a family history of early heart disease or very high cholesterol, testing may start as early as age 2.

Is chest pain in a child a sign of a heart problem? Usually not. Most chest pain in children comes from muscles, the ribs, the lungs or acid reflux. But chest pain during exercise, or chest pain with fainting, a racing heartbeat or shortness of breath, should be evaluated by a doctor.

How much sugar is too much for kids? The American Heart Association recommends no more than 25 grams, about 6 teaspoons, of added sugar a day for children and teens, and none for children under 2. Sugary drinks should be limited to one 8-ounce serving a week.

Do kids need an ECG before playing sports? It depends on your child’s history, symptoms, family history and sport. A pre-participation physical that reviews personal and family heart history is the first step. Your child’s doctor can decide whether further testing is needed.

Healthy Hearts Start at Home

The single most powerful thing parents can do for their children’s hearts is to model healthy habits and know their own risk. Many inherited heart conditions, including familial hypercholesterolemia, are first discovered in a parent, which then leads to testing and early treatment for the children.

At Ascent Cardiology, we care for adults, including parents who want to understand their own heart risk and family history. If you have high cholesterol, a family history of early heart disease or sudden cardiac death, or symptoms of your own, a heart evaluation can protect both you and your family. For a child with heart symptoms, start with your pediatrician, who can refer you to a pediatric cardiologist if needed.

Not sure if your own symptoms need a specialist? See the 10 warning signs you should see a cardiologist, and read statin myths vs. facts.

Request an appointment or call (813) 540-4322.

602 S Audubon Ave, Suite A, Tampa, FL 33609

Medical Disclaimer

The content provided on the Ascent Cardiology website is intended for general educational and informational purposes only. The information, articles, and media presented on this website do not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Content published on this website is not intended to replace consultation, evaluation, or treatment by qualified healthcare professionals, including the providers at Ascent Cardiology or other licensed medical professionals.

If you believe you may be experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate emergency medical care.

The medical information, opinions, and educational materials presented on this website are provided for general awareness and may not reflect the specific clinical practices or medical opinions of Ascent Cardiology or its providers. Reliance on any information provided on this website is solely at your own risk.

This website may include links to third-party medical or educational websites for informational purposes only. Ascent Cardiology does not control, endorse, or assume responsibility for the accuracy, reliability, or content of any third-party websites linked from this site.

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