Heart Failure Specialist - Havertown, PA
Condition: Heart Failure
The human heart is a hardworking organ, essential to transporting oxygen and nutrients across your body through the bloodstream. When this workload becomes too much for a person’s heart, it can fail to pump the amount of blood needed to sustain your body, and they can begin to go into what’s known as “heart failure.” Heart failure can happen for a variety of reasons, from high blood pressure to narrowed arteries - but no matter the cause, this condition can be dangerous, and even fatal.
With lifestyle guidance and close monitoring by a highly-trained internal medicine specialist near you, the symptoms of heart failure can be treated, prolonging and improving the quality of a patient’s life. Board-certified physician Dr. Gerard Miller’s concierge medical practice is focused on providing preventative care, helping to catch early signs of heart failure before symptoms become severe. Dr. Miller is an experienced cardiovascular disease doctor who can help you or your loved one maintain a healthy heart.
Dr Miller operates the only concierge practice in Havertown and being affiliated with Bryn Mawr Hospital, Dr. Miller works with the staff of hospital doctors if you are admitted to the hospital. He is available to his patients 24/7, and his one-on-one approach allows him to see every patient, every visit, building a relationship based on time and trust. Are you or your loved one ready to receive personalized heart care from one of the top geriatric doctors near you? Don’t wait. Schedule your first consultation with Dr. Miller today.
Concierge Care in Havertown, PA
Continuous Care for Patients With Cardiovascular Diseases
Heart failure can occur as the result of a number of untreated cardiovascular diseases, but the leading cause of heart failure in the world is coronary artery disease (CAD). Coronary artery disease is a buildup of fatty deposits in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart. This buildup of fat, cholesterol and calcium, known collectively as plaque, can cause a hardening and narrowing of the arteries that restricts blood from reaching the heart. Blood clots can also form and completely block the artery.
Coronary artery disease is diagnosed through a physical examination and a review of symptoms. The patient is hooked up to a heart monitor and an electrocardiogram is administered. The following diagnostic tests may also be performed:
- Blood tests
- Chest X-ray
- Echocardiogram
- Coronary catheterization (angiogram)
- Stress test
CT and MRI scans may also be performed to diagnose any heart problems and the extent of any damage from a heart attack. The doctor may also recommend that the patient wear a holter monitor for a few days to get an accurate reading of the heart's activity. A holter monitor is a small, portable device that continuously records the heart's rhythms and records the electrical activity of the heart.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can coronary artery disease be treated to prevent heart failure?
Dr. Miller may prescribe medications such as beta blockers, nitroglycerin, and cholesterol-modifying drugs that can help treat coronary artery disease. Aspirin may be recommended to prevent blood clots, and thrombolytics may be prescribed to break up any existing clots. Surgical procedures such as angioplasty, stent placement and coronary artery bypass surgery may be necessary to treat severe cases of coronary artery disease.
What are the most common symptoms of a failing heart?
Since the buildup of plaque is a gradual process, individuals may not experience any symptoms for some time. Once the coronary arteries narrow to a certain degree, the following symptoms may occur:
- Angina or chest pain
- Arrhythmia
- Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity
It’s important to tell Dr. Miller as soon as you begin feeling any of these symptoms -- the earlier you begin receiving treatment, the better your chances will be of preventing heart attack and heart failure.
How can I prevent heart failure due to coronary artery disease?
Coronary artery disease may be prevented through lifestyle changes to reduce risk factors and the clogging of arteries. Recommended lifestyle modifications include the following:
- Quitting smoking
- Eating a healthy diet
- Exercising regularly
- Losing weight
- Reducing stress
Because coronary artery disease greatly increases the risk for heart failure, it is important to seek regular medical attention from a hands-on physician like Dr. Miller to manage the condition and prevent serious complications.
How can I get started with one of the best heart failure doctors near me?
Dr. Miller makes it easy for patients and their families to get started with his concierge practice. Contact our office to discuss pricing options, any questions you may have, and to schedule your first appointment whenever you’re ready.