Cardiology

Dr. Rob explains · If a person has more fat in their diet than necessary, a substance called cholesterol in the blood forms a fatty layer of plaque in the vessels. This build up of cholesterol is heavily affected by diet, but can also simply be genetic as well. Over time the fatty substance build up on the inside of the vessel walls can get progressively worse and the space for blood flow becomes more and more constricted. With less space in the vessels, the result is an increase in blood pressure. Higher blood pressures can have many damaging effects on the body. If the pressure causes a piece of plaque to break away from the vessel wall and travel throughout the body, it can lead to serious consequences.

Dr. Rob explains · A normal heart rate is considered to be anywhere between 60-100 beats per minute. When exercising, this number obviously increases and depends upon the person’s age and general fitness level. However, a heart rate of less than 60 beats per minute during normal activity is considered to be too slow. Bradycardia is usually a result of heart tissue damage from age, a heart attack, or heart disease. Typically the issue with the slowed heart rate stems from the heart's natural pacemaker called the sinus node. If electrical impulses are not firing correctly between heart's upper and lower chambers, bradycardia can occur. Symptoms related to bradycardia include experiencing lightheadedness, dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, and confusion.