Page 30 - Southern Exposure - February '24

Page 30, Southern Exposure

MediCal Matters

Innovative Care For Structural Heart Disease

At Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center

The human heart is a marvel of engineering, with its four Here are transcatheter treatment options offered at Palm Efficiency in healthcare is crucial, especially when dealing
valves playing a crucial role in guiding blood flow through Beach Gardens Medical Center: with conditions as intricate as structural heart disease. Palm
the intricate chambers of the heart and throughout the body. • TAVR – minimally invasive, advanced treatment for Beach Gardens Medical Center strikes a balance between
When issues arise with these valves, it can lead to structural severe aortic stenosis expeditious care and comprehensive treatment. By leveraging
heart disease, a condition that, if left untreated, may result in • WATCHMAN – implant device to reduce stroke risk the expertise of a multidisciplinary team, patients can navigate
severe complications such as heart failure, stroke, blood clots, • PVL Closure – plug leaks around prosthetic heart valve their care journey with minimal disruptions to their daily lives.
or even death. Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center stands at • Mitraclip – treats mitral regurgitation (MR) Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center’s commitment to
the forefront of providing advanced care for structural heart • ASD/PFO Closure – repairs hole in septum of the heart providing state-of-the-art care for structural heart disease is
disease, offering a comprehensive approach that combines • Percutaneous Ventricular Assist Device – helps ventricles evident in its Structural Heart Program. From the efficiency of
cutting-edge technology and personalized treatment options. in heart pump blood the Structural Heart/Valve Clinic to the personalized treatment
The Structural Heart Program at Palm Beach Gardens One of the hallmarks of Palm Beach Gardens Medical plans crafted by a collaborative medical team, patients can find
Medical Center is a testament to the institution’s commitment Center’s approach to structural heart disease is the emphasis solace in knowing that their health is in capable hands. As the
to staying at the forefront of medical advancements. The on personalized care. Upon entering the Structural Heart/ medical landscape continues to evolve, Palm Beach Gardens
program integrates interventional technology with the latest Valve Clinic, patients are guided by a dedicated patient Medical Center remains dedicated to ensuring that individuals
innovations in structural heart procedures, offering patients navigator who facilitates all necessary appointments and facing structural heart disease receive the best possible care,
a diverse array of minimally-invasive treatment options. This ensures a seamless experience. A collaborative effort between embracing innovation and compassion in equal measure.
diversity empowers individuals to make informed decisions experienced cardiologists and cardiovascular surgeons, skilled For more information about our Structural Heart Program,
based on their specific diagnosis, fostering a sense of control in innovative valve procedures, ensures that each patient please call (844) 367-9703 or visit our webpage: https://www.
and involvement in their own healthcare journey. receives a customized care plan tailored to their unique needs. pbgmc.com/services/cardiovascular/structural-heart.

Understanding Chest Pain: A Cardiologist’s Perspective

By Oral Waldo, M.D., FACC, Cardiologist

Angina or chest pain can tests can include enzymes released into the blood during a fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to support
occur due to cardiac and heart attack, such as troponin, can be detected through blood heart health and help control risk factors such as high blood
noncardiac causes. Often, chest tests. Imaging studies or tests like echocardiograms, stress pressure and cholesterol. Quitting smoking is also one of the
pain is a symptom that causes tests, and coronary angiography can provide detailed images most significant steps one can take to improve heart health.
individuals to seek medical of the heart and blood vessels, aiding in the diagnosis of To learn more about cardiology care and Dr. Oral Waldo,
attention, and rightfully so. cardiac conditions. cardiologist, visit pbhnphysiciangroup.com. For more
Dr. Oral Waldo, a cardiologist Preventing cardiac chest pain involves adopting a heart- information or to schedule an appointment with Waldo call
with Cardiovascular Care – healthy lifestyle. Engage in regular exercise, eat a diet rich in his office at (561) 407-0611.
Palm Beach Health Network
Physician Group and on staff
at Good Samaritan Medical
Center and Palm Beach
Gardens Medical Center aims to shed light on the various
aspects of chest pain. Waldo emphasizes the importance of
prompt evaluation and the importance of identifying potential
underlying cardiac issues. While chest pain can be caused by
a variety of factors, it is crucial to recognize when it might be
indicative of a cardiovascular problem.
“Chest pain is one of the most common reasons for which
adults seek the care of a cardiologist. Chest pain can present
from a cardiac or noncardiac origin,” says Waldo.
Cardiac causes of chest pain include angina or chest pain,
resulting in discomfort that occurs when the heart muscle
doesn’t receive enough oxygen-rich blood. It is often described
as a pressure, squeezing, or burning sensation in the chest and
can be triggered by physical exertion or stress. Another cardiac
cause of chest pain can be a myocardial infarction also known
as a heart attack. A heart attack occurs when there is a sudden
blockage of blood flow to a part of the heart muscle. Chest pain
during a heart attack is typically more severe and prolonged
than angina and may be accompanied by shortness of breath,
sweating, nausea, and lightheadedness.
Noncardiac causes of chest pain can include gastrointestinal
issues due to conditions such as acid reflux, gastritis, or peptic
ulcers that cause chest pain. The pain may be burning or
sharp and might be exacerbated by certain foods or lying
down. Musculoskeletal problems can also cause chest
pain due to strained muscles or inflammation in the chest
wall that can lead to chest pain. Repetitive motion injuries,
muscle strains, or conditions like costochondritis can also
mimic cardiac chest pain. An additional cause of chest
pain can be respiratory conditions, pneumonia, pleurisy, or
inflammation of the lining around the lungs can cause chest
pain. Individuals with asthma may also experience chest
tightness and discomfort.
Any chest pain should prompt a visit to a healthcare
professional, especially if the pain is severe, persistent, or
associated with other concerning symptoms. Quick and
accurate diagnosis is crucial in determining the underlying
cause and initiating appropriate treatment.
“Chest pain is a symptom that demands attention and a
thorough evaluation. If you experience chest pain, don’t hesitate
to seek medical care and if it’s severe call 911,” says Waldo.
Cardiologists use various diagnostic tools to evaluate
chest pain, including electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG).
This test records the heart’s electrical activity and can help
identify abnormalities indicative of heart problems. Blood