Tag Archives: tampa cardiologist

05.01.20
by

Tips to Reverse and Help Prevent Heart Disease

heart-disease-tampa-cardio-tampa-florida

heart-disease-tampa-cardio-tampa-floridaReady to take the leap and commit to heart health? It isn’t as challenging as you think. Just follow these tips for ultimate heart health!

1.  Eat Your Vegetables!

We are what we eat. Eating a diet high in vegetables ensures we get all of the vitamins and minerals our bodies need. This is in direct opposition to what eating has become here in America. Junk, Junk, Junk… processed foods have taken over and they are killing us.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that 32% of our calories come from animal sources, 57% from processed plant foods, and only 11% from non-bleached grains, beans, fruits, vegetables, and nuts.  Plant-based food is essential to heal the body and protect your heart.

2. Quit Smoking

34.3 million people smoke as of 2019. Smoking can be devastating for your cardiovascular health. If you smoke, quit. Your heart will thank you.

3.  Maintain a Healthy Weight

BMI is a better indicator of a healthy size than just weight alone.  Recommended BMI as a goal should be 20-25. The more weight you carry the harder your organs and skeletal structure all have to work. Give your body a break and stay within range.

4.  Exercise

30 minutes of movement a day is the minimum. Go for a walk, stretch, do some yard work or work around the house, bike, swim, run, go to the gym, just get that blood flowing and muscles moving.

5.  Sleep like a baby

Seven to eight hours a night is ideal. Less and you may be cutting your life expectancy. Your body needs this time to rest, repair, and heal. That goes for your heart as well as the rest of you.

6.  Never ignore symptoms, signs, or heredity

If you notice an issue or are at high risk due to heredity, don’t wait. Get it checked out. The Tampa Cardiovascular Associates want you to know that with advanced blood work you can detect heart disease a decade before you have a heart attack.

  • Check your cholesterol and advanced cholesterol
  • Your three-month sugar numbers
  • Your A1C
  • Your inflammation
  • Your high sensitivity C-reactive protein
  • Your homocysteine level
  • Your lipoprotein A
  • Your vitamin D

7. Take a Suana often

Infrared saunas have been shown to improve the function of the cells that line the arteries.

The infrared light on the spectrum is the one that is able to penetrate our skin and activate our energy system.  Studies suggest that regular sauna sessions can help stabilize blood pressure.  An infrared sauna can help you and your heart stay healthy. Saunas also help your body rid itself of toxins through sweat much like exercise.

These have been our helpful self-care tips for keeping your heart healthy.

Visit www.tampacardio.com or call 813-975-2800 to schedule an appointment.

04.03.20
by

Anxiety and Heart Disease

chest pain anxiety heart disease tampa cardio

chest pain anxiety heart disease tampa cardioAnxiety disorders affect 40 million adults in the USA. 

Anxiety can make your body feel like you are having a heart attack. Chest based feelings of butterflies to sharp pains are not uncommon. 

Anxiety is not healthy in the short term but long term it can cause you to become ill emotionally and physically. Chronic anxiety can raise your risk for heart issues.

While small amounts of stress are healthy and even motivating, feeling worried or anxious now and then is normal. It’s when it becomes chronic that it may pose a negative threat to your wellbeing.

Generalized anxiety disorder is defined by at least 6 months of excessive worrying or feeling anxious about unrelated events. Approximately 5% of adults meet the criteria for this disorder. The incidence is higher, coming in at 11% among those with coronary artery disease and 13% of those with heart failure.

It has not been established whether anxiety sets off heart disease or vice versa. It is known that chronic anxiety can change the way the body reacts to stress. This happens via hormones and physiological reactions meant to keep us safe – known as the flight or fight response.

If your fight or flight response is constantly engaged it can lead to heart issues as well as adrenal burn out which may, in turn, cause other endocrine system issues.

Anxiety can present the same symptoms as a heart attack

A panic attack is so very similar in feel to a heart attack people often mistake them. Upon a trip to the ER, you will receive a diagnosis of non-cardiac chest pain. As many as 1 in 3 people will experience this in their lifetime.

What can you do?

The best answer medical professionals have found so far is a combination of medication and talk therapy. A cognitive-behavioral therapist will help you identify unwanted thoughts and establish what is anxiety-based and what is something that genuinely needs to be looked at and considered.

Medications work as a temporary bandaid to allow you to get through tough anxiety-filled times while working through the root cause with a therapist or on your own using tools such as automatic writing, meditation, yoga, or other relaxation healing based activities.

Never ignore chest pain. It is far better to be safe than sorry. If you are in the Tampa Florida area and looking for a cardiologist we invite you to check out the physicians at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates. www.tampacardio.com 813-975-2800.

03.10.20
by

PCS – Pelvic Congestion Syndrome – Diagnosis and Treatment

Pelvic-Congestion-Syndrome-Tampa-Cardio

Pelvic-Congestion-Syndrome-Tampa-CardioPelvic Congestion Syndrome is a chronic medical condition that affects nearly 1/3 of all women at some point during their lifetime.

Pelvic congestion syndrome is a condition that causes chronic pain in the pelvic region. When this happens, the veins in your pelvis can enlarge and change shape, like varicose veins. This type of damage causes veins to become varicose. Blockages create backflows of blood because the veins do not close properly anymore. The result is pressure build-up and bulging veins. When this happens in the region of the pelvis varicose veins can affect the uterus, vulva, and ovaries causing great pain and distress.

 It can be diagnosed when it is nonrelated to the menstrual cycle and lasts 6 months or longer (the time frame for a condition to be considered chronic). This condition is aggravated by standing for long periods of time.

How to Diagnose PCS

Pelvic Congestion Syndrome may occur in a wide range of ages for women between 20 and 50 years of age. Additional symptoms can include abnormal menstrual bleeding, irritable bladder, vaginal discharge and even visible varicose veins present on the thighs, vulva or buttocks. These areas are often overlooked and do not show up on imaging. Because of this, it is often tough to diagnose. Make sure you do a thorough at-home mirror check of your entire body and report any abnormalities to your doctor.

If pelvic pain worsens later in the day or when standing yet you can’t seem to get a proper diagnosis to come into Tampa Cardiovascular Associates we are able to work in conjunction with your gynecologist.

The Treatment

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia with IV sedation. The blood supply to the veins is blocked by the use of coils and embolic agents. An 80% pain reduction has been reported by those who have undergone this procedure.

Pelvic congestion syndrome is treated using minimally invasive, non-surgical, trans-catheter techniques. Contrast dye may be injected to confirm which veins are affected. If varices are found on venography, they are embolized with small coils or other FDA approved chemical agents.

The Recovery

The first of two visits is an overnight admission to the hospital. The purpose is for managed pain care during the first 24 hours. The patient is then discharged and can recover at home using oral pain medication for the relief of discomfort. Any pain experienced is most significant during the first three days after either procedure.

The second is an outpatient appointment. Most patients see great improvement. It is important to note that in some cases other pelvic veins are also affected and may require further treatment in the future.

If you are experiencing pelvic pain that seems outside the scope of normal monthly reproductive cycle issues, please give us a call at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates at 813-975-2800. www.TampaCardio.com

02.02.20
by

Reasons to Make an Appointment With a Cardiologist in Tampa, Florida

Cardiologist-tampa-tampa-cardio-1

You may never have considered visiting a Cardiologist. The very thought scares some people. The idea that there may possibly be something ‘wrong’ with your heart isn’t pleasant.

The fact is if there happens to be something going on with your heart it is by far better to find out and treat it as soon as possible in order to get the very best outcome. We would also like to note that some visits do end with a diagnosis of ‘nothing at all wrong with your heart’. There are several medical issues that can mimic heart problems.

Most patients don’t jump directly to visiting a Cardiologist. Consultations are mostly recommended by a patient’s primary care doctor as a result of either heightened risk factors for cardiovascular disease or symptoms that indicate it may already be an issue.

The number one killer in the world is heart disease. It affects 80 million people. Physicians are well aware of the stakes in early detection.

Risk Factors for Heart Disease

  • Major risk factors include:
  • Genetics – Immediate family members affected and diagnosed already.
  • Heightened blood pressure readings.
  • Raised cholesterol levels.

These may prompt your primary doctor to refer you to a cardiologist.

A genetic history of heart disease may be the catalyst for an evaluation or for low-level tests to check heart function. Depending on the results, you may continue to be monitored by your primary care physician or be given a clean bill of health.

Symptoms causing patients to seek cardiology care may include:

  • Arrhythmias (Rhythm disturbances) can include palpitations or missed heartbeats.
  • Angina (chest pain or discomfort)- This often indicates narrowed arteries.
  • Inability to catch your breath. This may indicate congestive heart failure or valve issues.
  • A cardiac event, such as a heart attack.

If you are in need of an excellent cardiology team in Tampa, Florida we invite you to take a look at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates. This world-renowned team of physicians can handle any form of cardiac issue. We would love the opportunity to review your medical history with you, do a physical exam, and help get you on the right track to your best cardiac health possible.

Give us a call at 813-975-2800 or visit us online bygone to www.tampacardio.com. We are located conveniently at 3010 E. 138th Avenue, Suite 12 in Tampa, Florida 33613.

01.03.20
by

Coronary Angioplasty – The Pros and Cons

corinary-angioplasty-tampa-cardio

What is Coronary Angioplasty?
Angioplasty involves the insertion and inflation of a tiny balloon inside of your blocked blood vessel. This helps to improve blood flow by enlarging the area that your blood has to flow through. During some procedures, a stent (a piece of supportive wire mesh) is placed inside of the vessel to help keep it open and continue promoting healthy blood flow. Stents are placed and left in permanently.

Why Doctors Select Coronary Angioplasty
Stenting and angioplasty are minimally invasive alternatives to coronary bypass grafting surgery (which has a much higher complication risk). This is due in part to anesthesia during stenting. Recovery is much simpler as well. Patients are able to resume their normal activities within just a day or two.

Benefits of a coronary angioplasty or stenting procedure include:

  • Coronary Angioplasty can be performed during a heart attack to restore blood flow and potentially save your life.
  • It may lessen your risk of future stroke.
  • May prevent gangrene by increasing blood flow to the legs.
  • This procedure can reduce the symptoms of heart disease.
  • It can improve kidney function.

Uncommon Downside to Coronary Angioplasty
Complications are much less common in angioplasty and stenting procedures than they are with coronary bypass grafting surgery, patients should need to be notified of the potential risks. The most common complication as a result of angioplasty is simply the necessity for a repeat procedure later on, which generally only happens if a coronary artery re-narrows. The best thing that you can do is to ensure that you follow all of your doctor’s instructions, and be aware of the following issues that may arise:

  • A rare percentage of patients are allergic to the stent itself
  • Scar tissue may cause the need for repeat procedures
  • Blood vessels may become damaged at the insertion point
  • Blood clots can form inside stents
  • An artery can collapse or close
  • The more major arteries that are involved, the greater the risk
  • If angioplasty fails, coronary bypass surgery may be needed
  • Some patients may experience side effects to the medications given post-procedure

Any procedures to do directly with the heart can send people into a state of anxiety. But the important thing to know is that you are in great expert hands with the physicians of Tampa Cardiovascular Associates. This is a procedure they have performed successfully time and time again.

For further advice on angioplasty and other coronary surgeries, or to schedule an appointment of your own, never hesitate to contact the skilled cardiologists of Tampa Cardiovascular Associates. Simply call our offices at (813) 975-2800 and any of our friendly staff members would be happy to assist you in getting set up with one of our physicians. www.tampacardio.com.

12.21.19
by

The Effect of Sugar Addiction on Your Heart

Tampa Cardio sugar-and-your-heart-health

Tampa Cardio sugar-and-your-heart-healthSugar hits the pleasure center of the brain in the same way that hard drugs do. This makes refined sugar extremely addictive and very hazardous to your health. Moderation is key and elimination even better.

Until recent years not all that much study had been done on sugar. It was a well-known household dietary staple. The harmful effects of a diet high in sugar are becoming more publicly known, many are still unaware.

The fact is, your sugar intake could very well be harming your health now and into the future. Let’s take a look at how sugar affects the body.

  1. Sugar can compound depression. Though little known or recognized sugar has an effect on mental and cognitive function. It may offer one explanation as to why you feel drained in a short time after eating something sugary. It has also been scientifically linked to anxiety and memory lapses later in life.
  2. Sugar begets heart disease. Heart disease is still the top cause of death worldwide. Recent studies show that a high sugar diet could be a major contributing factor. Elevated levels of fructose can raise your insulin and blood glucose, as well as lead to obesity.
  3. Sugar causes dental issues. The obvious statement of the bunch,  sugar sticks to your teeth and feeds the bacteria. Over time, teeth can decay as a result causing cavities.
  4. Sugar adds weight. If you eat a lot of sugar, you are going to have a higher risk of being overweight.
  5. Sugar is bad for your liver. Excessive sugar consumption will have a similar effect on the liver as if you were an alcoholic. This is because sugar, which turns into fat, becomes lodged in the liver. That can develop into non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
  6. Cancer cells feed on sugar. Numerous studies have shown that there is a connection between sugar consumption and cancer. Sugar consumption creates elevated insulin levels so the body can’t properly regulate the abnormal growth and multiplication of unwanted cells potentially leading to cancer or feeding already existing cancerous cells.
  7. Sugar can spur type II diabetes. Excess sugar can result in insulin resistance, which in turn can result in a highly toxic excess of glucose in the blood. This can cause a number of conditions to develop, perhaps the worst of which is type II diabetes.
  8. Sugar is addictive. Sugar attaches to the same pleasure centers in the brain that result from doing street drugs and opiates. It is equally as addictive. It may be hard for people to practice moderation when it comes to junk food, and when trying to quit, they may experience withdrawal symptoms.

For further guidance that you can trust, make an appointment with the onsite nutritionist available at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates by calling (813) 975-2800.

Our physicians dedicated to keeping your heart health at its best. We’ll do anything we can to help you improve your everyday quality of life through important lifestyle choices. Visit www.tampacardio.com to learn more about our practice.

11.06.19
by

The Right Cold Medicine for High Blood Pressure

cold-medicine-heart-tampa-cardio

cold-medicine-heart-tampa-cardioThe temperatures are dropping fast. With the sudden change in weather, our bodies sometimes don’t fully adjust right away. This can put a dent in our immunity and leave us exposed to potential cold and flu viruses going around.

While there is still no cure for the common cold or the flu, millions of Americans seek relief through over the counter medicines which can help shorten the duration of the illness as well as mask symptoms and help you cope with the bugs and feel a little better temporarily allowing you to get through your days.

These medicines work very well for most people. If you happen to have problems with your heart health though you need to be aware of potential complications and side effects even over the counter remedies may provoke.

If you have been diagnosed with hypertension (High blood pressure), heart disease, or heart failure, common decongestants that contain pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine can be a danger. They are both vasoconstrictors, meaning they constrict blood vessels in the sinus and nasal passages which helps with drainage and swelling – making it easier for you to breathe. The problem is because they are taken orally the effects don’t just take place in the sinuses and nose. They can make your heart work harder than it needs to and that can spell trouble for some.

Safer Alternatives that Still Work

Nasal Decongestant Sprays – This helps minimize the cardiovascular effect because of the direct delivery system. Please use no more than twice daily and only as directed.

Neti Pot – A neti pot is a small plastic pot that holds (non-tap) water, lukewarm, mixed with salt (the salts come with the pots in small pre-measured packages). Mix and rinse one side of the nose at a time. They are great for clearing out dust, pollen, dander, air pollutants, viruses, bacteria and more from your sinus cavities and have no side effects. They are free to be used with any medications.

Hot compress – holding a heating pad or hot compress against your face not only feels good, but it also helps loosen and release sinus pain and pressure allowing the mucus to drain more easily.

Antihistamines – these may be a safe alternative. Antihistamines can help dry up nasal mucosa. Just be aware they may cause drowsiness.

Steam – Be it a wet sauna, a hot shower, or a bowl of boiled water with a towel, the fact is steam loosens up sinuses and helps them to drain. All of these are great helpers.

When choosing a product, always read the label carefully.

  1. Look at both the “active” and “inactive” ingredients. Many contain multiple active ingredients that could affect your cardiovascular health, interact with your cardiovascular medications, and cause side effects.
  2. Decongestants and antihistamines come in extended-release meaning that you take them less frequently. Always read the directions on the label and consult your pharmacist or doctor with any questions.

For more heart-healthy advice visit WWW.TAMPACARDIO.COM OR CALL US FOR AN APPOINTMENT AT  813-975-2800.

08.04.19
by

Boost Heart Health Nutritionally!

nutrition-tampa-cardio-heart-health

nutrition-tampa-cardio-heart-healthWe were all brought up with the four food groups. Meat & Dairy, Grains, Vegetables & Fruits, and “other”.  It didn’t include or take into account all of this frozen, premade, and fast food we are bombarded with. While technically they still fall into those groups, these foods are chemically altered, GMO, and preservatived to death. There is little to no nutritional value in a lot of it.

It saves us money and hassle, but at what cost are you eating these things on a daily, monthly, yearly, lifetime basis?

Your body needs nutrients to thrive and survive. When it doesn’t get everything it needs it can create nutritional deficiencies. These deficiencies can be hard on your body, mind, health and even individual organs.

Navigating the world of health can be tough. In order to really know exactly what your body needs testing may be in order. Working with a certified nutritional consultant is incredibly helpful and save you a lot of trial and error as well as guesswork and money.

You should see a nutritionist if:

1. You are over the weight you ideally would like to be at

Trying to navigate the world of weight loss on your own can be boggling. There are so many diets, so many conflicting opinions, so many people trying and failing. Fad diets do not work long term. You have to change the way you think about food and what you buy when you shop. Many weight loss and fat burner pills are hard on if not a danger to your heart. Working with a nutritionist can help you set a good path to follow, making it a step by step easy guide along with support.

2. You have food sensitivities or allergies

What is just fine for one person may send another into a bout of hives or anaphylactic shock. Allergies and sensitive can cause headaches, stomach aches, diarrhea, hives, swelling, and yes in the extreme, even shock. If you cannot figure out what is going on with your body or pinpoint exactly what you are having a reaction to, come see us. We can help identify, so you can avoid it or even try therapy to desensitize yourself to it over time.

3. You have a serious medical condition – such as heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure.

All of these conditions require a specialized diet. A nutritionist can help you rework your diet to add in items that help heal the body and eliminate anything you may be eating that is detrimental to your health. Food is medicine and it is important to use it wisely.

4. Be proactive and help prevent any future illnesses

Even if you are currently healthy, if you have a family history of heart disease or diabetes you may want to visit a nutritionist to ensure your health stays on track by eating right for your body and genetics. Eating right can improve your mental focus, your appearance, and your overall well being. It can help you age more gracefully, and enjoy life more fully. This really is the best time and best reason of all to seek the knowledge of a nutritionist.

5. Don’t go it alone. Support and help are right here.

We all go into a new way of eating all excited and gung-ho. Sticking to it is the hard part and some times it really helps to have an outside perspective, some accountability, and a Cheerleader on your side. Our nutritionists at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates are here for you every step of the way. We get no more pleasure than watching someone’s body and life transform, especially when we get the honor of playing a part in it.

If you are ready to take that next step and change your health for the better, then please contact Tampa Cardiovascular Associates today, and make an appointment with our on-staff licensed nutritionist. 813-975-2800. www.tampacardio.com.

08.01.19
by

EKG Readings – What They Can Say About Your Heart

EKG tampa cardio

EKG tampa cardioIf your doctor has ever told you “You need an EKG”. You may know the feeling of confusion and worry both in an instant. We do not know how much medical knowledge each of our patients actually have come into our office. We don’t want to insult you by seemingly talking down to you, so sometimes we don’t explain as much as maybe we should.

Today lets take a look at an EKG (Electrocardiogram). It is also sometimes referred to as an ECG. This test can help track and diagnose the heart’s electrical activity. The EKG only takes 10 minutes. It consists of a technician attaching twelve leads directly to your chest to get a readout from each individual line. It measures for a ten second period of time.

What can an EKG show your physician?

An EKG can show if you have experienced a heart attack – While heart attacks generally will cause significant pain and you readily suspect you are having a heart attack, in as many as 45% of cases there are no symptoms at all. You may not even realize it is or has happened. That is what is known as a silent heart attack.

It may not be found unless you have an EKG which sill show your doctor any blockage in your coronary artery which could lead to future events.

An EKG can show if you have a heart arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm). When healthy your heart pumps steadily. If there is a dysfunction in electrical signals being fired it can cause an abnormal heartbeat.

An EKG can show if you are getting enough oxygen to the heart – Your heart requires oxygen to function properly and stay strong. If your heart experiences ischemia (lack of oxygen for a prolonged time) it can begin to die. This leads to heart failure and even possibly death.

An EKG will show heart enlargement – When healthy, your heart is about the size of your fist. Some medical conditions will cause the heart to grow larger, stretching the muscle making it weaker. Causes may include unregulated high blood pressure, aging, heart failure, heart disease, and viral infections.

EKG’s are an important diagnostic tool for Cardiologists. It’s an easy quick test to administer and can help your physician get a more full picture of what is going on with your heart.

We hope this gives you a better understanding of what an EKG is and why one may be recommended.

If you are looking for a great team of cardiologists right here in the Tampa Bay, Florida area give us a call and make an appointment today! (813) 975-2800. www.tampacardio.com.

07.01.19
by

Varicose Veins – The Diagnosis

varicose-veins-tampa-cardio

varicose-veins-tampa-cardioWhile you may think it would be very easy to identify vein disease the truth is it doesn’t always show up in the form you might think. Visible purple or blue veins which are lumpy and twisted are a sure sign of varicose veins as well as small wiggly lines that spider web in appearance are spider veins, but many times you may experience leg pain and have no visual cues.

Pain, aching, throbbing and tiredness are all signs you may have vein issues.

Ultrasound is performed by a registered vascular technologist who can find precisely where the leakage is occurring. From there, a logical and effective treatment plan can be set in order to heal the health issue.

Surface layer veins, as well as deep saphenous veins, are both carefully examined in respect to clotting potential and valve function. This exam is an outpatient procedure. It will take approximately 30 minutes per leg, and is best performed at the direction of the Physician Vein Specialist who will be responsible for diagnosis and course of a treatment plan.

If you are in the market for a Tampa Florida Doctor Vein Specialist you are in luck. By simply visiting www.tampacardio.com you have found the best possible treatment in all of Florida.

Our team of well-respected professionals can get you on your way to living the active lifestyle you once enjoyed. The team includes Dr. Vasco Marques

M.D., F.A.C.C, F.S.C.A.I, R.V.P.I, Dr. Asad Sawar

M.D., F.A.C.C, F.S.C.A.I, R.V.P.I, Dr. Victor Feliz

M.D., F.A.C.C, F.S.C.A.I, R.V.P.I, Dr. Octavio Cosme

M.D., F.A.C.C, F.S.C.A.I, R.V.P.I Claudia Fuego

ARNP, Courtney Pariso MSN, ARNP, Roberta Moore MPH, ARNP-C, Kathleen Dailey

AANP, Jesus Ojeda CNMT, and Jesus Ojeda CNMT as well as an amazing administrative staff.

Click to learn more about each physician or staff member.

At Tampa Cardiovascular Associates, you are in good hands. We know veins inside and out as well as the entire cardiovascular system. This is a truly full-spectrum facility.

Our office is located in Tampa, Florida

3010 E. 138th Avenue, Suite 12

Tampa, Florida 33613

We can be reached by phone by calling (813) 975-2800 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday.

www.tampacardio.com