Cardiac Care

An atrial septal defect is a congenital heart condition in which a hole is present in the wall (septum) separating the heart’s two upper chambers. This opening allows oxygen-rich blood from the left atrium to mix with oxygen-poor blood in the right atrium, causing extra blood flow to the lungs and additional strain on the right side of the heart. Small defects may cause few or no symptoms, while larger defects may lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, or heart rhythm abnormalities. Diagnosis is typically made by echocardiogram, and treatment depends on the size and effects of the defect, ranging from careful monitoring to minimally invasive catheter-based closure or surgical repair.

An aortic aneurysm is an enlargement or bulging of a segment of the aorta, the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the body. If left untreated, progressive dilation can lead to dissection or rupture, resulting in life-threatening complications. Treatment focuses on strict blood pressure and heart rate control, weight management, avoidance of heavy straining, and routine imaging to track size. When size or growth rate reaches procedural thresholds, we coordinate timely surgical or endovascular repair.

Arrhythmias are abnormal heart rhythms that can feel like skipped, rapid, or irregular beats. They include conditions such as ventricular tachycardia (VT), supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), atrial premature complexes (APCs), and ventricular premature complexes (VPCs), among others. Certain arrhythmias may reflect underlying structural heart disease or predispose to more serious rhythm disturbances. Our team identifies potential triggers such as stimulants, stress, or electrolyte imbalance, monitors rhythm through ambulatory devices like Holter and event monitors, and tailors treatment through lifestyle adjustments, medication management, or referral for electrophysiologic evaluation when necessary.

Atrial fibrillation is an irregular rhythm where the upper chambers quiver rather than contract effectively. It matters because it can raise stroke risk and lead to fatigue or breathlessness. Care focuses on stroke prevention when indicated, heart rate or rhythm control, and treatment of contributing factors such as sleep apnea, high blood pressure, or excess alcohol.

Conduction disorders are delays or blocks in the heart’s electrical signal, including first-degree atrioventricular block, right bundle branch block, and left anterior fascicular block. Many are benign, particularly in healthy or athletic individuals. We review medications and risk factors, monitor with periodic electrocardiograms, and arrange pacemaker evaluation only if more advanced block or symptoms develop.

Cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle in which the muscle becomes enlarged, weakened, or abnormally thickened, reducing the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively and increasing the risk of rhythm disturbances. Prompt intervention is essential, as progressive dysfunction can lead to heart failure or serious arrhythmias. Treatment focuses on optimizing heart function and preventing progression through guideline-directed medical therapy, along with careful blood pressure control, risk-factor management, and lifestyle modification to support lasting cardiac recovery and improve overall quality of life.

Coronary artery disease occurs when plaque narrows the arteries that feed the heart. It matters because even moderate plaque can trigger heart attack and limit exercise capacity. We combine lifestyle and risk-factor optimization with tailored medical therapy and functional assessment when appropriate. If concern for flow-limiting disease arises, we coordinate definitive coronary imaging and intervention.

Heart failure means the heart cannot pump or fill efficiently enough to meet the body’s needs. If not properly managed, it can lead to fatigue, swelling, breathlessness, and recurrent hospitalizations. Treatment includes guideline-directed medications, careful blood pressure and fluid management, daily weights, sodium restriction, activity planning, and close follow-up. We address the upstream conditions that contribute to heart failure to improve long-term outcomes.

Hypertension is elevated blood pressure that strains the heart, arteries, brain, and kidneys. It matters because risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and sudden death rises as blood pressure increases. We aim for optimal control with weight management, low-sodium nutrition, daily aerobic activity, stress reduction, and individualized medications when needed, balancing effectiveness with side-effect avoidance.

Mitral valve prolapse occurs when the mitral leaflets billow backward during closure. While often benign, it can cause palpitations, chest discomfort, or fatigue in some individuals. Care focuses on symptom control, lifestyle adjustments to reduce triggers, and periodic echocardiograms to monitor for regurgitation. Most cases are well managed without procedures.

Palpitations are the sensation of a skipped, fluttering, or racing heartbeat. While often benign, they may indicate an underlying rhythm disturbance or be triggered by factors such as caffeine, dehydration, stress, or certain medications. We evaluate patterns, screen for thyroid and electrolyte issues when indicated, optimize hydration and stimulant use, and use rhythm monitoring to guide treatment such as reassurance, medication, or referral if needed.

Pulmonary hypertension is elevated pressure in the lung circulation and the right side of the heart. Over time, this increased strain can lead to enlargement of the right heart chambers, reduced cardiac efficiency, and a higher risk of arrhythmias and heart failure. We investigate underlying causes such as left-sided heart disease, lung conditions, or sleep apnea, manage contributing factors, and coordinate specialized therapies when appropriate.

Valvular regurgitation occurs when one or more of the heart’s four main valves, the aortic, mitral, tricuspid, or pulmonary valve, do not close completely, allowing blood to leak backward and forcing the heart to work harder to maintain circulation. Over time, this leakage can cause the heart to enlarge or weaken, leading to shortness of breath, fatigue, or swelling. Treatment focuses on controlling blood pressure, maintaining heart function through medication, and monitoring valve performance with periodic imaging. In more advanced cases, repair or replacement may be required to restore normal valve efficiency and prevent long-term complications.

Valvular sclerosis refers to early thickening or calcification of one or more of the four main heart valves, the aortic, mitral, tricuspid, or pulmonary valve, typically as part of the natural aging process. Although it usually does not significantly block blood flow, it serves as a marker of cardiovascular risk and can progress over time. Preventive care involves managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and other risk factors while performing periodic imaging to ensure that the valves remain functional and healthy.

Valvular stenosis is a condition in which one or more of the four major heart valves, aortic, mitral, tricuspid, or pulmonary , become stiff or narrowed, restricting blood flow and increasing the workload on the heart. This can develop gradually with age, calcium buildup, or scarring from prior illness. Patients may experience chest pressure, dizziness, or shortness of breath as the condition progresses. Management includes close monitoring with echocardiograms, lifestyle and medication adjustments to reduce strain on the heart, and referral for valve intervention when obstruction becomes severe.