Tag heart health

When you’re getting ready for a heart test, especially one like an echocardiogram, it’s natural to have questions. One of the most common concerns we hear at Apex Cardiology is whether or not you are sedated for an echocardiogram. 

Understanding what happens during the procedure is often enough to ease any anxiety and help you feel more confident walking into your appointment. That being said, let’s break it down and give you clear answers about sedation, echocardiograms, and what you can expect during the procedure. 

Are You Sedated for an Echocardiogram? 

For the most part, echocardiograms do not require any sedation. This non-invasive heart imaging test uses ultrasound waves to create real-time images of the structure of your heart and what is going on inside. For the standard transthoracic echocardiogram (the most commonly performed type), the procedure is completely painless and performed while you’re fully awake. You simply lie back while a technician moves a handheld scanning device, called a transducer, across your chest. 

Following the echocardiogram, there are no restrictions and no recovery time. So if you’re scheduled for a routine echo with a cardiologist, rest assured: you’ll be up and about in no time, with no lingering grogginess or need for a driver. 

What About Specialized Echocardiograms? 

While sedation isn’t necessary for the standard echo, there are a few specialized types where sedation might be used. Even in these cases, the sedation is minimal and very safe. The most common example of a specialized echocardiogram is the transesophageal echocardiogram. 

Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE)

A TEE involves inserting a thin probe into the esophagus to get clearer images of the heart from behind the chest wall. Because this procedure involves placing something down your throat, mild sedation is typically used. The sedation is meant to help keep you comfortable and relaxed. Still, to be clear, it is not full anesthesia. You’ll still be breathing on your own and able to respond, but you likely won’t remember much of the test afterward.

After a TEE, patients are usually monitored for a short period and advised not to drive for the rest of the day. We recommend having someone come with you to the appointment, just in case sedation is used.

Can You Request Sedation Due to Anxiety? 

If you are feeling particularly anxious about your test, make sure to speak to your cardiologist ahead of time. While sedation isn’t typical for a routine echocardiogram, we understand that medical procedures of any kind can feel overwhelming. In rare cases, a doctor may recommend a mild anti-anxiety medication, especially if you have a known history of panic attacks or medical-related anxiety. 

However, this decision is made on a case-by-case basis, and your doctor will carefully balance your comfort with your safety as well as the effectiveness of the test. Most patients find that, with a little explanation and reassurance, sedation isn’t necessary at all. 

What To Expect Without Sedation

Here’s what the typical echocardiogram experience looks like without sedation:

• You’ll lie comfortably on an exam table
• A technician will apply a special gel to your chest
• A handheld transducer is moved over your heart area
• You may be asked to change positions or hold your breath briefly
• The entire procedure usually takes 30–60 minutes

Overall, there’s no pain involved, and you should only feel a slight pressure from the device. You’re also free to go on about your day as soon as it’s over. Your results will then be given to your cardiologist, who will review them and discuss them and any next steps with you at your next appointment.

When in Doubt, Talk to Your Cardiologist

If you have any questions about your procedure, it’s always a good idea to ask them ahead of time! At Apex Cardiology, we always prioritize education and the comfort of our patients. If you’re unsure about which type of echocardiogram you are getting, or whether sedation will be involved, just reach out. 

Some patients might be scheduled for a more advanced echocardiographic study depending on their symptoms or medical history. In these cases, your cardiologist will go over all the details with you. This conversation will include a discussion of whether sedation is necessary for you and how to prepare for the examination. In these cases, our care team will explain everything step-by-step to make sure your experience is smooth and stress-free. 

Ready for Your Echocardiogram? 

Have more questions or need to schedule your test? Call Apex Cardiology today or use our website to book your consultation. We’re here to make sure your heart health is in the best hands every step of the way.

The heart is arguably the most important organ in the body. It is responsible for pumping blood throughout the circulatory system so oxygen and nutrients can be delivered to the different parts of the body. Given this, the many complications that arise when the heat fails are not at all surprising. Unfortunately, heart failure is a problem among millions of people around the world. Heart failure is a chronic and progressive condition when the heart fails to pump blood as well as it should. It is usually considered irreversible. However, there is growing evidence that suggests that weight loss in overweight and obese patients can greatly improve the condition of the heart. If you are a heart patient with weight problems, your cardiologist may have mentioned that weight loss is necessary for lessening your heart complications, but can weight loss actually reverse heart failure? We answer this and discuss your heart health below.

Understanding Heart Failure

When the heart is no longer able to pump the blood that the body needs, heart failure occurs. This condition can be caused by coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. Obesity, in particular, contributes greatly to the development and progression of heart failure. Excess weight stresses the heart and causes increased blood pressure, inflammation, and metabolic dysfunction.

Two Main Types of Heart Failure

• Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction (HFrEF): The heart muscle becomes weak and is unable to pump blood as well as it should.
• Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF): The heart can still pump as well as it used to but has become too stiff to fill properly.

Both types of heart failure can be aggravated by excess body weight.

The Impact of Weight Loss on Heart Health

According to research, intentionally losing weight can help improve heart function, especially for patients with obesity-related heart failure. Weight loss can:

• Reduce Cardiac Strain: With less weight, the heart’s workload becomes less, reducing blood pressure and improving blood circulation.
• Lower Inflammation: Obesity is often linked to chronic inflammation, which can lead to heart failure. Weight loss, in contrast, leads to lower inflammatory markers and improves heart health.
• Improve Metabolic Function: Weight loss improves insulin sensitivity and reduces the risk of diabetes-related complications that affect heart health.
• Decrease Fluid Retention: Weight loss can lessen the buildup of fluid which is a common symptom of heart failure that leads to swelling in the legs and breathing difficulties.
• Improve Your Capacity to Exercise: Weight loss improves the ability to engage in physical activities that can strengthen the heart muscle and improve overall fitness.

While patients have experienced significant improvements in their heart condition, whether weight loss can reverse heart failure depends on a variety of factors, like the severity of the condition, underlying causes, and how early medical interventions were implemented.

Evidence Supporting Reversal or Improvement of Heart Failure Following Weight Loss

Several studies suggest that weight loss can result in the partial or complete recovery of heart function in some patients.

• According to the journal Circulation, studies have shown that weight loss can lead to a decrease in left ventricular mass, which is a measure of the size of the heart muscle. This has the potential of reversing left ventricular hypertrophy linked to obesity. Additionally, weight loss can improve cardiac function, including the ability of the heart to fill itself with blood.
• According to the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, bariatric or weight loss surgery has led to great improvements in heart failure symptoms and even complete remission in some patients.
• A study published in The Lancet found that patients who experienced a significant amount of weight loss had improved ejection fraction ( a key measure of heart function) and overall heart health.

While the evidence suggests that weight loss can lead to dramatic improvements, it may not be a complete cure for heart failure, especially for advanced cases where heart muscle damage is no longer reversible.

Safe Weight Loss Activities for Heart Failure Patients

Though weight loss is not a cure-all for heart complications, those with heart complications can surely benefit from it. Below are some safe weight loss tips if you want to lose weight.

1. Adopt a Healthy Heart Diet

Eat a lot of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. You can also consider the Mediterranean Diet and the DASH (Dietary Diet to Stop Hypertension) because they are both particularly good for the heart.

2. Engage in Regular Physical Activity

Walking, swimming, and cycling are great for the heart and for your overall physical fitness. However, remember to get your doctor’s advice about your plans before starting any exercise program.

3. Monitor Fluid and Sodium Intake

Manage your heart failure symptoms by preventing fluid retention. You can do this by reducing your intake of salt.

4. Consider Medical or Surgical Interventions

Ask your doctor about weight loss medications or bariatric surgery. These are usually recommended for patients with severe obesity.

5. Manage Stress and Sleep

If you cannot stay away from stress, learn to manage it. Chronic sleep and poor sleep are bad for your heart’s health. Practice stress-reduction techniques and sleep-enhancing activities to support your heart.

Be on Your Way to a Healthier Heart

Weight loss alone cannot reverse heart failure in all cases, but it can lead to significant improvements in heart function, symptom relief, and the overall quality of life of patients. For patients with severe obesity, surgical interventions may be used to improve cardiovascular condition.

If you or someone you love has heart failure and is considering weight loss and weight management as part of a treatment plan, consult with us today so we can help you decide on the best and safest route to take in improving your heart’s health.

Coronary heart disease is one of the most common and deadly diseases in the world and, unfortunately, has many different causes. You may be at risk for coronary heart disease—or other types of heart disease—based on factors such as age, diet, genetics, and pre-existing medical conditions. Your family history and personal health profile can also contribute to the possibility of heart disease. Today, Apex Cardiology professionals will outline the most significant risk factors for coronary heart disease.

Risk Factors for Coronary Heart Disease

1. High Blood Pressure 

A major contributor to the increased risk of heart disease is having consistently high blood pressure, medically referred to as hypertension. High blood pressure occurs as a result of stress, plaque buildup in the arteries—called atherosclerosis—, poor health habits, and other medical issues. Some people are born with blood pressure problems due to their genetics. Others might develop hypertension later in life as a result of unhealthy lifestyle habits. High blood pressure can build up for many years and go unnoticed, which is why regular check-ups are so important. Most risks can be detected and diagnosed through our non-invasive cardiac imaging treatments.

2. Smoking

It is no secret that smoking contributes to heart disease. The chemicals in tobacco can damage the lining of the coronary arteries and foster atherosclerosis. Nicotine, the other addictive chemical in cigarettes, also increases blood pressure while spreading your risk for cancer. Additionally, carbon monoxide from smoking has been shown to reduce the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Each of these effects forces the heart to work harder, making it more likely that you will develop heart disease.

3. Diabetes

Folks with diabetes are at a huge risk of developing heart disease. This is because diabetes tends to raise blood sugar levels at an extreme rate. Excess blood sugar levels then interfere with the blood vessels and the nerves responsible for regulating heart functions. The majority of diabetic individuals also have other co-existent risk factors, such as high cholesterol levels, which only exacerbate heart disease symptoms. 

When being treated for diabetes, your doctor should also assess the health of your heart. This consultation provides an excellent opportunity to examine risk factors that you might have or be susceptible to as you manage your diabetes symptoms.

4. Family History and Genetics

Genetics and family history are two major contributors to the risk of heart disease. There is a higher risk of developing heart disease if immediate members of the family, parents or siblings, have had the disease at a relatively young age. As challenging as it may seem to treat a genetic complication, there are still a few things you can do to prevent future complications. The foremost of these include regular doctor’s visits and an intentional and healthy lifestyle routine.

5. Age and Sex

The risk of coronary heart disease increases as you get older. When they are younger, men are usually at a higher risk than women. As they age, especially after a woman has gone through menopause, this changes, and women are more likely to face heart disease. In fact, heart disease is the number one cause of death in women in the United States. Heart disease can look different in men and women, so women are likely underdiagnosed for the condition.

Age and sex both play an interesting role in your possible risks, especially as estrogen and testosterone levels change within the body. Other hormonal changes can also increase your risk of heart disease, especially as blood pressure levels fluctuate over time.

Assess Your Heart Disease Risk Today

Coronary heart disease is a serious issue that you may be at risk for, depending on your age and health. Luckily, there are plenty of actions you can take to prevent and minimize your risk. Such activities include regular exercise, healthy dietary habits, quitting smoking, and controlling your blood pressure. 

Visit our cardiology center to assess your risk for heart disease and to make healthy changes for a healthy future.

A CT scan is a medical imaging tool used to see the heart and blood vessels. The results allow your doctor to see any potential issues in your heart. It can also be used to monitor your progress if you are undergoing medical treatment for your heart. The procedure is non-invasive and highly effective. Below, you will find information detailing when you should go for cardiac CT imaging.

When Should You Go For Cardiac CT Imaging?

A CT scan is also referred to as a cardiac computed tomography scan. It is highly effective in detecting several heart conditions because it examines your heart and blood vessels. Your primary care provider or cardiology doctor may recommend it. It is critical to follow their instructions, as the results can provide vital information about your health. There are several reasons someone should get a CT scan.

Coronary Artery Disease

CT scans are helpful in detecting coronary artery disease. The imaging detects blockages and narrowing of the arteries, among other important information. This information can reduce your risk for heart attacks and other cardiac complications. Your cardiology doctor uses the information to create an effective coronary artery disease treatment plan.

Congenital Heart Defects

Congenital heart defects can impact your heart and overall health. A CT scan effectively gets images of the entire heart. These details allow a cardiology doctor to diagnose and monitor the defect. Undiagnosed congenital heart defects can result in serious health issues. Medical intervention is key, and a CT scan can help your doctor create a treatment plan that is right for you. 

Heart Valve Issues

Heart valve issues can impact your health and lead to serious health issues. Valve issues often involve narrowing or leakage. A CT scan can evaluate the function of your heart valves. This information can aid your cardiology doctor in finding a treatment plan for you. Surgical intervention may be necessary. This is why it is critical to get a CT scan when your doctor recommends it.

Management and Evaluation

CT scans are important when diagnosing several heart conditions. However, they are also an effective tool for evaluating and monitoring heart conditions. They can assess how treatment is going for a heart condition and be used before or after surgery to see any changes that have occurred. CT scans are a highly valuable tool used by cardiology doctors to ensure your heart health stays in good shape.

Non-Invasive Cardiac CT Imaging

Preparing for a CT scan is simple. It’s helpful to follow your cardiology doctor’s instructions. This may include fasting, adjusting your medications, and following other pre-scan instructions. You should also avoid wearing jewelry when you go to your appointment. Be sure to consult with your primary care provider before adjusting any of your medications. 

The scan is non-invasive and fairly fast. You should be in and out of the office within 90 minutes. Non-invasive cardiac CT imaging involves several steps. You will need to lie down on a table during the scan. Electrodes may be placed on your chest to monitor your heart rate. A dye is injected into your body to improve the clarity of the CT scan images. From there, you need to stay still and may be prompted to hold your breath. Once the imaging is complete, a radiologist will analyze the images. From there, your doctor will reach out to you regarding your results. 

Apex Cardiology

The team at Apex Cardiology has helped countless patients improve their heart health. If you need a CT scan, contact Apex Cardiology to schedule your appointment!

An echocardiogram is a vital medical test. Often referred to as an “echo,” the test is essentially an ultrasound of your heart. Doctors use the test to look for issues with your heart. It tests how blood moves through the chambers and valves of your heart. Your primary care provider or cardiologist can order an echocardiogram if they are concerned about your heart health. If you have any concerns about your cardiovascular health, you should reach out to your doctor. In the meantime, this guide will explain who is a candidate for echocardiography and if you fall into this category.

Who Is a Candidate for Echocardiography?

There are several reasons someone may need an echocardiogram. The text examines your heart and can determine abnormalities. Consider the following reasons why someone may be a candidate for an echocardiogram.

Congenital Heart Disease

Some people are born with heart defects, which are characterized by problems with the formation of the heart. An echocardiogram is effective in assessing formation issues, such as a hole or an abnormal connection. Untreated heart defects can cause serious issues later on.

Heart Murmurs

Unusual sounds from your heart characterize a heart murmur. Doctors hear them when they use a stethoscope to listen to your heart. Murmurs occur when blood abnormally flows through your heart. An echocardiogram is used to see what is happening inside your heart.  

Heart Valve Issues

Your heart has four valves. The valves open and close to let blood flow in the right direction. Sometimes, valves may become too right or leak, which can cause health issues if left unaddressed. An echocardiogram provides your cardiology doctor with helpful information to treat the heart valve issue.

Blood Clots

Blood clots can form inside your heart. If left unaddressed, they can be highly dangerous and fatal. Echocardiography in Los Angeles is often used to determine if a patient has a blood clot. This is essential information for your doctor, as they can use it to treat the issue. 

Symptom Evaluation

Some patients have several symptoms that indicate heart issues. Common symptoms include chest pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, and a fast or slow heartbeat. An echocardiogram is beneficial, as your doctor can see if the symptoms are associated with your heart. From there, they can diagnose and treat the issue much more easily.

Echocardiogram Testing

An echocardiogram typically takes roughly 30-60 minutes from start to finish. You will be on a special bed in a hospital gown, so the equipment can easily be placed on your chest area. The technician will then apply gel to your chest so they can produce a more clear image. A special tool called a transducer is used to take the echocardiogram. The technician will move the transducer around your chest to get as many quality images as possible. Once the technician has taken all of the information they need, the test is over. From there, the doctor will examine your results and get back to you regarding what they found.

Echocardiography in Los Angeles

If you are at high risk for developing heart conditions, it is crucial to work with a skilled cardiologist. They can assess your risk for certain conditions and provide you with important information about how to care for your health. If you are not high-risk but have concerns about your health, consult with a medical professional right away. The team at Apex Cardiology is skilled in cardiology and has provided countless echocardiograms. Contact their team today to schedule an appointment! 

A Doppler heart test is a non-invasive medical test that creates images of your heart. The test is performed using a handheld device that transmits sound waves throughout your chest. This creates images of your heart that provide valuable information to your doctor. This includes your heart’s function, structure, and blood flow. The test is commonly used to monitor and diagnose heart-related conditions. If your doctor recommends the test, you may wonder, what does a Doppler heart test feel like? Below you will find more information about the test and what to expect.

What Does a Doppler Heart Test Feel Like?

A Doppler heart test is non-invasive and fast. You may wonder what to expect if your doctor recommends a Doppler heart test. In many cases the preparation is minimal. Your cardiology doctors will provide you with instructions on how to prepare. Most often, you will just need to avoid drinking or eating a few hours before the test. Once you are at the office, you will lie on a table so the sonographer can perform the test. The test involves you lying down on a table. The gel is applied to your chest as the transducer is used to create the images of your heart. In some cases, you may need to change positions or hold your breath. This ensures optimal image quality. Once the test is over you can resume your normal activities. 

Why Do I Need A Doppler Heart Test?

A Doppler heart test is an effective tool that your medical provider may recommend for a variety of reasons. Most of these reasons are either to diagnose or monitor a heart-related issue. Below are some of the common reasons why you may need a Doppler heart test.

Congenital Heart Disease: 

A Doppler heart test can evaluate congenital heart disease. This condition involves a defect in one or more of the heart structures during the formation of the fetus.

Heart Failure: 

Heart failure is a condition where the heart muscle becomes weak or stiff during heart relaxation. This results in inefficient blood plumping that can cause serious issues. This includes fluid buildup in the blood vessels and lungs, in addition to swelling in the feet, ankles, and other parts of the body.

Cardiomyopathy: 

A Doppler heart test is an effective tool to evaluate cardiomyopathy. This is a condition characterized by an enlargement of the heart due to thick or weak heart muscles.

Heart valve disease involves a malfunction in one or more of the heart valves. This can cause abnormalities in blood flow in your heart. A Doppler heart test can examine if heart valve disease has impacted your valves. This is common among those who have the condition, as the valves can narrow and restrict blood flow. The condition can also cause leaks, with blood flow moving backward.

Cardiac Tumor: 

A cardiac tumor can occur in any one of the chambers of your heart. It can also be present on the outside surface of your heart or within the muscles. If your medical provider thinks you may have a cardiac tumor, a Doppler heart test can be used to diagnose and monitor the issue.

Cardiology Specialists

Your heart health is critical to your overall health. Because of this, issues with your heart health need to be treated promptly and with care. Apex Cardiology has the top cardiologists who have the necessary skills and experience to address your heart-related issues. They understand how stressful heart health issues can be and are committed to ensuring your comfort and care. Contact their team today if you need care related to your heart health!

A stress test shows how your heart performs, including how well blood flows through your heart. The test is a diagnostic procedure that measures your heart during periods when it is forced to work harder than usual. Stress tests reveal a lot of information that can help your medical provider better understand your heart health. You may wonder, how often should I get a stress test? Below you will find helpful information about if and how often you should be tested.

How Often Should I Get a Stress Test?

In many cases, people do not ever need to get a stress test. However, if you do, it’s important to follow your cardiologist’s recommendations when it comes to your heart health. If you need to get tested, your doctor determines when and how often you should be retested. In many cases, a retest is not necessary. This is because a stress test is often performed to diagnose your heart-related symptoms. Once diagnosed, cardiology doctors use the information from the stress test to create a comprehensive treatment plan.

Reasons to Get a Stress Test

A nuclear stress test is an effective tool used by cardiologists. It can reveal helpful information about your heart-related issues. Below are some of the reasons you may need a stress test.

Symptom Evaluation: 

A stress test is beneficial if you have symptoms of a heart-related issue. A doctor will recommend a stress test if this is the first time you have had symptoms. Additionally, if you were previously diagnosed with a heart-related issue and your symptoms have gotten worse, a stress test is a beneficial tool. Common symptoms that indicate the need for a stress test include chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, lightheadedness, fatigue, and heart palpitations. A stress test is valuable as it can reveal the heart issue and indicate if further testing is required.

Treatment Determination and Assessment: 

A stress test can assess your heart-related symptoms and help your doctor determine which treatment is right for you. Additionally, a stress test can be later used to determine if that treatment is working. A stress test can help manage your heart health, including diagnosing the issue and assessing the effectiveness of your current treatment. In some cases, patients with heart conditions have to stop certain activities. This is generally not permanent, but it is necessary until the heart issue is resolved. Because of this, a stress test can determine whether you can return to your normal activities.

Assessment Tool For High-Risk Patients: 

If you are high risk for cardiovascular disease, a stress test may be necessary to initially evaluate your heart function. Risk factors include patients with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, smoking, lack of exercise, an unhealthy diet, excess alcohol consumption, or a family history of premature heart disease. Early intervention is key when it comes to managing your heart health. Those at a higher risk need to consult with medical professionals early and regularly to ensure optimal health.

The Importance of Heart Health

Your heart health is critical to your overall health. In fact, your heart is your body’s lifeline as it is responsible for distributing blood all throughout your body. A healthy and efficient heart ensures optimal cardiovascular and overall health. However, issues with your heart can impact your daily life and long-term health. If you have a family history of heart health issues or have any symptoms of heart problems, contact a medical professional right away. A cardiologist can help diagnose and treat your condition. They can also help you with preventative measures to ensure your heart stays healthy.