Are Heart Palpitations Serious?

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Any change in your heart’s usual beat can be concerning. Heart palpitations can make you worry if something’s wrong with your heart.

At HeartCare Associates of Connecticut, LLC, our team understands how scary heart flutters and palpitations can be. We offer comprehensive in-office services to give you an accurate diagnosis and ensure that you get any treatment you might need.

An overview of heart palpitations

Heart palpitations feel like a fluttering, pounding, or racing feeling in your chest. Generally, these sensations occur because of changes in the rhythm of your heart, a condition known as an arrhythmia.

When you feel your heart flutter or beating too fast, you might also experience other worrisome symptoms like:

  • Dizziness
  • Lightheadedness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest tightness or pain

Many people also feel a racing heartbeat in their neck or throat. In some cases, heart palpitations can cause fainting, especially in people who have existing heart disease.

If you experience recurrent heart palpitations, we recommend that you schedule a diagnostic evaluation at HeartCare Associates of Connecticut, LLC, as soon as possible. Through a comprehensive exam of your heart and overall health, we can help pinpoint the cause of your palpitations and get you the treatment you need.

Why you may have heart palpitations

Heart palpitations can occur for a variety of reasons, many of which are harmless. Some of the common reasons your heart might beat too fast or flutter on occasion include:

  • Fever
  • Stress
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Strenuous exercise
  • Hormone changes
  • Thyroid disorder

You might also develop heart palpitations if you use certain stimulants like nicotine, caffeine, and over-the-counter cold medications.

More serious conditions that can trigger heart palpitations include arrhythmia and underlying heart disease. If left untreated, you might be at increased risk for stroke, heart attack, and heart failure.

Uncovering the cause of heart palpitations

Our team offers several on-site heart tests to evaluate the function and overall health of your heart. You might need blood work to check your thyroid and hormone levels.

We also offer heart tests like electrocardiograms (ECGs) that measure the electrical activity in your heart and exercise stress tests that monitor your heart’s activity during exercise and while at rest.

In some cases, you might need to wear a Holter monitor, a portable ECG machine that records your heart’s activity for 24 hours or longer to detect abnormalities in your heart’s rhythm.

Once we understand what’s contributing to your heart palpitations, we can work with you on a treatment plan to reduce the fluttering and racing episodes and improve your overall health.

Lifestyle changes are your first line of defense

Often, people need to become more aware of what’s triggering their heart palpitations. Our team at HeartCare Associates of Connecticut, LLC, will start by teaching you mindful breathing techniques and relaxation exercises to help reduce stress.

You should also reduce your intake of caffeine, nicotine, and other stimulants that can contribute to heart palpitations. Our team can help you improve your daily nutrition to support heart health.

If you have an arrhythmia or another underlying heart condition, we can customize a treatment plan to treat it. We focus on protecting the long-term health and function of your heart using the latest treatments available.

Call the HeartCare Associates of Connecticut, LLC, office nearest to you to schedule a diagnostic evaluation today. 

Life-Saving Reasons to Get a Nuclear Cardiac Scan

Over 6 million Americans live with heart failure, and four out of five people don’t know they have it! This is because symptoms of heart issues aren’t always severe at first — But can end up in a visit to the emergency room. Early detection of heart disease and other conditions can be life-saving. Heart

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The summertime might mean fun vacations to the beach, outdoor adventures, and backyard barbeques, but it can also be a dangerous time for your heart. More than 600 people in the United States die each year from extreme heat.  Hotter temperatures are known to put a strain on our cardiovascular health. This is especially true

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Cardiovascular disease kills one person every 33 seconds in the United States. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for many racial and ethnic groups in the U.S. Taking care of your heart is vital to your overall health and well-being. That’s why it’s important to have regular cardiovascular health screenings to assess your

Read More »

National Stroke Awareness Month

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It’s officially spring! A time of reflection, celebration, and excitement as new growth beginsto sprout up from the once-frozen ground. Nature is reawakening to a fresh start, and youcan too!As we welcome colorful flowers, longer days, and warmer temps, it’s a great reminder to getmoving. If you made resolutions to improve your exercise routine and

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How a Nutrition Program Can Benefit Your Health

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Good nutrition is vital for long-term health. But many people don’t know how to eat right to give their body what it needs to thrive.

That’s why we offer comprehensive nutrition programs at HeartCare Associates of Connecticut. Our nutrition experts can help you with every aspect of your diet to ensure that you get the full benefit of your program.

All about nutrition programs

Our nutrition programs are customized to meet your needs. They focus on the important elements of good nutrition and help you with meal planning, grocery shopping, and even your exercise regimen to ensure you get what you need to stay healthy.

Within a nutrition program, our experts ensure that you get the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients you need in your daily diet. We also teach you how to limit sugar and foods that are high in calories to help you achieve and maintain a healthy body weight.

You can expect resources and guidance from our team to make the long-term changes that support good nutrition. We can also work directly with our cardiology team to tailor your program to your underlying health concerns if you have heart disease or other chronic health conditions.

The benefits of a nutrition program

Any steps you take toward eating better and getting more exercise can have a significant impact on your long-term health. By participating in a nutrition program, you get the extra support you need to make better choices concerning your diet and your lifestyle.

Here are some of the most worthwhile benefits of a HeartCare Associates of Connecticut nutrition program:

Lower your blood sugar

If you have diabetes or are at risk for it, improving your diet can help naturally regulate your blood sugars. This helps you avoid complications like nerve damage and the long-term need for medications.

Lower your cholesterol

You can lower high cholesterol levels with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Through our nutrition program, you can learn to eat foods that lower your cholesterol and keep it under control moving forward.

Reduce your risk for chronic disease

There are many chronic diseases that are linked to obesity and a poor diet. By eating the right foods and maintaining your weight, you can significantly reduce your risk for heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and even some cancers.

Improve your sense of well-being

Eating good can leave you feeling good. If you struggle with depression or anxiety, it might be partly due to your diet. Eating more fresh foods and limiting processed, sugary, and high-fat foods can stabilize your mood and give you a stronger sense of well-being.

Boost your metabolism and immunity

There are many foods that support your metabolism and can strengthen your immunity. Our team can help you design a meal plan that supports healthy weight loss and boosts your immune system function. A healthy diet can also restore your energy levels so you can stay on track with daily exercise.

Our nutrition program focuses on your needs and your goals. While we work closely with you to ensure your meals are nutrition-focused, we also consider all aspects of your life and how they influence your diet.

Find out how a nutrition program can work for you by calling the HeartCare Associates of Connecticut office nearest you.

Life-Saving Reasons to Get a Nuclear Cardiac Scan

Over 6 million Americans live with heart failure, and four out of five people don’t know they have it! This is because symptoms of heart issues aren’t always severe at first — But can end up in a visit to the emergency room. Early detection of heart disease and other conditions can be life-saving. Heart

Read More »

6 Tips for Summertime Health

The summertime might mean fun vacations to the beach, outdoor adventures, and backyard barbeques, but it can also be a dangerous time for your heart. More than 600 people in the United States die each year from extreme heat.  Hotter temperatures are known to put a strain on our cardiovascular health. This is especially true

Read More »

What to Expect at a Cardiovascular Disease Screening

Cardiovascular disease kills one person every 33 seconds in the United States. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for many racial and ethnic groups in the U.S. Taking care of your heart is vital to your overall health and well-being. That’s why it’s important to have regular cardiovascular health screenings to assess your

Read More »

National Stroke Awareness Month

More than 130,000 people die yearly from strokes in the U.S. Many others who survive are left with temporary or permanent disabilities.  We understand it can be scary to think about the possibility of a stroke. But luckily understanding the signs, knowing what to do, and taking preventative measures can help to avoid the severe

Read More »

5 Tips for Your Healthiest Spring Yet!

It’s officially spring! A time of reflection, celebration, and excitement as new growth beginsto sprout up from the once-frozen ground. Nature is reawakening to a fresh start, and youcan too!As we welcome colorful flowers, longer days, and warmer temps, it’s a great reminder to getmoving. If you made resolutions to improve your exercise routine and

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Understanding Primary and Secondary Hypertension

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Nearly 50% of adults in the United States have hypertension, or high blood pressure, a leading cause of heart disease. Unfortunately, many more people might be living with the condition and not even know it.

To reduce your risk of heart disease, our team at HeartCare Associates of Connecticut, LLC, recommends regular blood pressure checks. We also provide services that help you manage hypertension in the long-term to prevent serious health complications.

Here’s some helpful info on high blood pressure and the two types: primary and secondary hypertension.

An overview of hypertension

Hypertension is a condition where the force of your blood against your artery walls is too high. If left untreated, this increased blood pressure can damage your arteries and make it more difficult for your blood to circulate throughout your body.

There are many people who unknowingly have hypertension and are at risk for developing serious health complications, including:

These conditions can lead to long-term health issues and increase your risk for premature death.

The classifications of hypertension

There are two classifications of hypertension – primary and secondary. At HeartCare Associates of Connecticut, LLC, we can diagnose which type you have and customize a treatment plan to help you keep it well-controlled.

Primary hypertension

Primary hypertension, or essential hypertension, describes high blood pressure levels that occur for no known reason. This type of hypertension is the most common and develops gradually over time, possibly due to smoking, having a poor diet, and being overweight.

Secondary hypertension

Secondary hypertension is high blood pressure that develops because of other underlying health conditions. If you have thyroid or kidney disease, you might be at increased risk for developing hypertension.

You can also develop secondary hypertension if you have obstructive sleep apnea or use illicit drugs, birth control pills, or over-the-counter cold medicines.

Hypertension is a silent killer

You can have either type of hypertension without knowing it because the condition typically doesn’t cause symptoms until it’s in the advanced stages.

If your blood pressure gets too high, it can lead to dizziness, fainting, and shortness of breath. However, many people unknowingly live with elevated blood pressure that remains uncontrolled, which is why hypertension is often referred to as the “silent killer.”

The only way to know that you have hypertension is to get regular blood pressure screenings. Screenings are typically a part of your routine health care checkups, but you might need more frequent screenings if you have underlying health issues and other risk factors for high blood pressure, such as:

  • Obesity
  • Chronic stress
  • Smoking history
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • High-salt diet
  • Family history of hypertension

Your risk for hypertension also increases as you age, especially if you’re over 50.

Tips for preventing hypertension

You can reduce your risk for complications of hypertension by making changes to your lifestyle and diet. Our team at HeartCare Associates of Connecticut, LLC, recommends eating a heart-healthy diet, getting daily exercise, and maintaining a healthy body weight.

You should also limit your use of alcohol, quit smoking, and be mindful of your stress levels.

If these changes aren’t enough to lower your blood pressure, our team can prescribe medications that support your lifestyle as well as diet changes to keep your blood pressure well-controlled.

If you need help managing hypertension, call the HeartCare Associates of Connecticut, LLC, office nearest you today.

Life-Saving Reasons to Get a Nuclear Cardiac Scan

Over 6 million Americans live with heart failure, and four out of five people don’t know they have it! This is because symptoms of heart issues aren’t always severe at first — But can end up in a visit to the emergency room. Early detection of heart disease and other conditions can be life-saving. Heart

Read More »

6 Tips for Summertime Health

The summertime might mean fun vacations to the beach, outdoor adventures, and backyard barbeques, but it can also be a dangerous time for your heart. More than 600 people in the United States die each year from extreme heat.  Hotter temperatures are known to put a strain on our cardiovascular health. This is especially true

Read More »

What to Expect at a Cardiovascular Disease Screening

Cardiovascular disease kills one person every 33 seconds in the United States. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for many racial and ethnic groups in the U.S. Taking care of your heart is vital to your overall health and well-being. That’s why it’s important to have regular cardiovascular health screenings to assess your

Read More »

National Stroke Awareness Month

More than 130,000 people die yearly from strokes in the U.S. Many others who survive are left with temporary or permanent disabilities.  We understand it can be scary to think about the possibility of a stroke. But luckily understanding the signs, knowing what to do, and taking preventative measures can help to avoid the severe

Read More »

5 Tips for Your Healthiest Spring Yet!

It’s officially spring! A time of reflection, celebration, and excitement as new growth beginsto sprout up from the once-frozen ground. Nature is reawakening to a fresh start, and youcan too!As we welcome colorful flowers, longer days, and warmer temps, it’s a great reminder to getmoving. If you made resolutions to improve your exercise routine and

Read More »

The Vein Venter at Heartcare Associates of Connecticut

March is already here! That means we’re another step closer to warmer temps, being active outdoors, and welcoming new spring flowers.  With so much to look forward to, the last thing you want to worry about is not feeling comfortable in your own skin. Unfortunately, many struggle this time of year due to unsightly varicose

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The Danger of a Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

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A life of inactivity or a smoking habit can increase your risk for a dangerous condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). At HeartCare Associates of Connecticut, our experienced vein care specialists offer on-site services to diagnose and treat DVT and prevent serious complications.

Our experts provide more insight into what DVT is and how you can protect yourself from this type of serious vein condition.

Understanding deep vein thrombosis

A deep vein thrombosis occurs when a blood clot forms in the deep veins of your body. DVT most often affects your legs because the blood there must fight against gravity to make it back to your heart.

You can develop a DVT if you have underlying clotting disorders or because of factors like:

  • Surgery
  • Obesity
  • Smoking
  • Pregnancy
  • Inflammatory bowel disease
  • Using birth control pills
  • Sitting for long periods of time

If you are over 60 or have a family history of DVT, your risk also increases.

Without treatment, DVT can cause serious and potentially life-threatening complications like a pulmonary embolism, which occurs if the clot in your leg travels into your lungs and blocks blood flow.

Signs that you might have a deep vein thrombosis

There are a number of symptoms that can indicate that you have a DVT. However, it’s also possible to have DVT without knowing it.

Signs to look out for include:

  • Leg pain
  • Leg swelling
  • Skin discoloration
  • Muscle cramping and soreness

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important that you schedule a diagnostic evaluation with our team at HeartCare Associates of Connecticut. 

You should also seek medical attention if you have shortness of breath, chest pain, or rapid breathing – all signs of a possible pulmonary embolism.

Diagnosing and treating a deep vein thrombosis

Our vein care experts offer diagnostic technologies on-site to quickly identify a deep vein thrombosis. If you have symptoms or risk factors for DVT, they might request tests like:

  • Ultrasound
  • Venography
  • Computed tomography (CT) scan
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

These tests provide our team with a close-up view of your deep veins to accurately confirm the clot and its location within your vein.  

Your treatment plan for DVT will likely involve medications to thin your blood or break up the clot before it can travel to your lungs or another part of your body.

In some cases, surgery might be needed to place a filter in your vein that prevents a clot from moving around. Following surgery, our team offers blood-clotting monitoring services as part of our Anticoagulation Management Service.

Tips to lower your risk for a deep vein thrombosis

Our providers at HealthCare Associates of Connecticut offer resources to lower your risk for developing DVT and its related complications. They recommend wearing compression stockings to improve your blood circulation and suggest health-improvement strategies like:

  • Losing weight
  • Quitting smoking
  • Improving your diet
  • Increasing your daily exercise

You might also need routine checkups of your affected vein to identify potential clots that might develop at a later time.

To schedule a diagnostic evaluation for deep vein thrombosis, call the HeartCare Associates of Connecticut office nearest you today.

Life-Saving Reasons to Get a Nuclear Cardiac Scan

Over 6 million Americans live with heart failure, and four out of five people don’t know they have it! This is because symptoms of heart issues aren’t always severe at first — But can end up in a visit to the emergency room. Early detection of heart disease and other conditions can be life-saving. Heart

Read More »

6 Tips for Summertime Health

The summertime might mean fun vacations to the beach, outdoor adventures, and backyard barbeques, but it can also be a dangerous time for your heart. More than 600 people in the United States die each year from extreme heat.  Hotter temperatures are known to put a strain on our cardiovascular health. This is especially true

Read More »

What to Expect at a Cardiovascular Disease Screening

Cardiovascular disease kills one person every 33 seconds in the United States. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for many racial and ethnic groups in the U.S. Taking care of your heart is vital to your overall health and well-being. That’s why it’s important to have regular cardiovascular health screenings to assess your

Read More »

National Stroke Awareness Month

More than 130,000 people die yearly from strokes in the U.S. Many others who survive are left with temporary or permanent disabilities.  We understand it can be scary to think about the possibility of a stroke. But luckily understanding the signs, knowing what to do, and taking preventative measures can help to avoid the severe

Read More »

5 Tips for Your Healthiest Spring Yet!

It’s officially spring! A time of reflection, celebration, and excitement as new growth beginsto sprout up from the once-frozen ground. Nature is reawakening to a fresh start, and youcan too!As we welcome colorful flowers, longer days, and warmer temps, it’s a great reminder to getmoving. If you made resolutions to improve your exercise routine and

Read More »

The Vein Venter at Heartcare Associates of Connecticut

March is already here! That means we’re another step closer to warmer temps, being active outdoors, and welcoming new spring flowers.  With so much to look forward to, the last thing you want to worry about is not feeling comfortable in your own skin. Unfortunately, many struggle this time of year due to unsightly varicose

Read More »

Good and Bad Cholesterol: What’s the Difference?

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What and how you eat plays a big role in your risk for heart disease and a variety of other serious cardiovascular conditions. This is especially true if the foods you eat are high in cholesterol.

About 102 million people in the United States have high cholesterol. At HeartCare Associates of Connecticut, LLC, our team specializes in helping patients reduce their risk for heart disease and other complications of high cholesterol.

In order to help you better understand the impact that cholesterol has on your health, we’re breaking down the differences between good and bad cholesterol and what you can do to improve your heart health.

What is cholesterol and where does it come from?

Cholesterol is a waxy substance in your bloodstream that is responsible for vital health functions, including the production of healthy new cells and the creation of new hormones.

It’s your liver that produces this cholesterol, generally making whatever cholesterol is necessary to support good health. But you also get cholesterol from foods in your diet. Because foods provide extra cholesterol, it can cause an excess that has negative health consequences.

Too much cholesterol can lead to an accumulation of fatty deposits in your blood. These deposits can restrict blood flow in your blood vessels, and over time, can harden into a plaque. This plaque narrows your vessels, and without treatment, can lead to a complete blockage that doesn’t allow blood to flow to the rest of your body.

Cholesterol – the good and the bad

You have two types of cholesterol – good and bad. To travel through your bloodstream, your natural cholesterol and the cholesterol you get from your diet bind to proteins to form a lipoprotein. There are different types of lipoproteins in your blood, including:

High-density lipoprotein (HDL)

HDL cholesterol is the good cholesterol, responsible for picking up excess cholesterol in your blood and carrying it back to your liver, which filters the excess from your body as waste.

Having high levels of HDL cholesterol can actually lower your risk for heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)

LDL cholesterol is known as the bad cholesterol. When you have high levels of LDL, it can lead to blood vessel blockages that cause heart attacks and strokes.

While you can have high levels of LDL in your blood at any time, it’s unlikely you’ll have any noticeable symptoms until something serious, like a heart attack, occurs. For this reason, it’s important to keep a close eye on your cholesterol levels.

When to get your cholesterol checked

Routine cholesterol checks should happen at least once a year, during your annual physical. You might need more routine cholesterol testing if you have risk factors for high cholesterol and its side effects, such as:

  • Obesity
  • Diabetes
  • Poor diet
  • History of smoking 
  • Lack of exercise
  • Personal or family history of high cholesterol
  • Personal or family history of heart attacks or heart disease

You also might need more frequent cholesterol testing as you get older, as age-related changes in your body can lead to high cholesterol. These changes might lead to loss of some liver function that makes it difficult to remove bad cholesterol efficiently.

If your test reveals high cholesterol, our team at HeartCare Associates of Connecticut, LLC, can work with you on a treatment plan to bring it under control. Treatment might require lifestyle changes, dietary changes, and cholesterol-lowering medications.

When you need help managing high cholesterol, call the HeartCare Associates of Connecticut, LLC, office nearest you today.

Life-Saving Reasons to Get a Nuclear Cardiac Scan

Over 6 million Americans live with heart failure, and four out of five people don’t know they have it! This is because symptoms of heart issues aren’t always severe at first — But can end up in a visit to the emergency room. Early detection of heart disease and other conditions can be life-saving. Heart

Read More »

6 Tips for Summertime Health

The summertime might mean fun vacations to the beach, outdoor adventures, and backyard barbeques, but it can also be a dangerous time for your heart. More than 600 people in the United States die each year from extreme heat.  Hotter temperatures are known to put a strain on our cardiovascular health. This is especially true

Read More »

What to Expect at a Cardiovascular Disease Screening

Cardiovascular disease kills one person every 33 seconds in the United States. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for many racial and ethnic groups in the U.S. Taking care of your heart is vital to your overall health and well-being. That’s why it’s important to have regular cardiovascular health screenings to assess your

Read More »

National Stroke Awareness Month

More than 130,000 people die yearly from strokes in the U.S. Many others who survive are left with temporary or permanent disabilities.  We understand it can be scary to think about the possibility of a stroke. But luckily understanding the signs, knowing what to do, and taking preventative measures can help to avoid the severe

Read More »

5 Tips for Your Healthiest Spring Yet!

It’s officially spring! A time of reflection, celebration, and excitement as new growth beginsto sprout up from the once-frozen ground. Nature is reawakening to a fresh start, and youcan too!As we welcome colorful flowers, longer days, and warmer temps, it’s a great reminder to getmoving. If you made resolutions to improve your exercise routine and

Read More »

The Vein Venter at Heartcare Associates of Connecticut

March is already here! That means we’re another step closer to warmer temps, being active outdoors, and welcoming new spring flowers.  With so much to look forward to, the last thing you want to worry about is not feeling comfortable in your own skin. Unfortunately, many struggle this time of year due to unsightly varicose

Read More »

Changing Your Lifestyle with Healthy Nutrition

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The urge to change your life for the better is never stronger than right after New Year’s, and HeartCare Associates of Connecticut offers an essential service to make your goals easier to achieve.

Our specialists provide comprehensive nutrition services to ensure that you’re giving your body what it needs to function optimally. They address all aspects of good nutrition so you can incorporate the right changes into your daily life.

Why healthy nutrition is important

Everything you put into your body has an impact, whether it’s good or bad. If you survive on junk food, fatty foods, and empty calories, you may find that these eating habits zap your energy, affect the condition of your skin, and add extra pounds that are difficult to lose.

When you provide your body with essential nutrients from fresh foods in healthy proportions, you can better support its functions. A healthy diet regulates your blood sugar and cholesterol levels and reduces your risk factors for both acute and chronic health conditions.

A good diet is also essential for maintaining a healthy body mass index (BMI) to reduce risk factors associated with obesity, including heart disease.

A recipe for good nutrition

A healthy diet should focus on unprocessed, fresh foods and a healthy balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. You also need to give your body the essential vitamins and minerals it needs to function at a cellular level.

Fresh fruits and vegetables, especially dark greens, contain many of the vitamins and minerals you need in your daily diet. You also need to consume whole grains and get proteins from leans meats and low-fat dairy products.

While you don’t have to deprive yourself of sweets or your favorite dishes, you should limit these indulgences and control your portions. You can also offset the impact of treats by ramping up your exercise routine to burn off the additional calories.

Become more aware of what’s in the foods you eat by reading labels. Pay attention to your intake of salt, sugar, synthetic sweeteners, and alcohol.

The benefits of a medically supervised nutrition program

Our nutrition specialists at HeartCare Associates of Connecticut take an individualized approach. They design a plan to address the different aspects of healthy eating based on your existing health, your medical history, and your goals for healthier living.

As part of this nutrition program, you can expect help with:

  • Meal planning
  • Portion control
  • Calorie monitoring
  • Grocery shopping
  • Physical fitness plans

If you have underlying health issues, like diabetes or high blood pressure, our nutritionist can help you create an eating plan to benefit your condition. In fact, many health issues can be well-managed with the right nutritional improvements.

When you’re living with a heart condition, our nutritional specialists work with our cardiology team closely to design a safe, heart-healthy nutrition plan to optimize your heart health.

By making incremental changes to your diet and exercise routine under the supervision of a nutritional specialist, you’re better equipped to implement them into your daily life. Our team also holds you accountable for your efforts and can provide resources to help you achieve your other health goals.

To learn how a medically supervised nutrition program can benefit your life, call the HeartCare Associates of Connecticut office nearest you.

Life-Saving Reasons to Get a Nuclear Cardiac Scan

Over 6 million Americans live with heart failure, and four out of five people don’t know they have it! This is because symptoms of heart issues aren’t always severe at first — But can end up in a visit to the emergency room. Early detection of heart disease and other conditions can be life-saving. Heart

Read More »

6 Tips for Summertime Health

The summertime might mean fun vacations to the beach, outdoor adventures, and backyard barbeques, but it can also be a dangerous time for your heart. More than 600 people in the United States die each year from extreme heat.  Hotter temperatures are known to put a strain on our cardiovascular health. This is especially true

Read More »

What to Expect at a Cardiovascular Disease Screening

Cardiovascular disease kills one person every 33 seconds in the United States. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for many racial and ethnic groups in the U.S. Taking care of your heart is vital to your overall health and well-being. That’s why it’s important to have regular cardiovascular health screenings to assess your

Read More »

National Stroke Awareness Month

More than 130,000 people die yearly from strokes in the U.S. Many others who survive are left with temporary or permanent disabilities.  We understand it can be scary to think about the possibility of a stroke. But luckily understanding the signs, knowing what to do, and taking preventative measures can help to avoid the severe

Read More »

5 Tips for Your Healthiest Spring Yet!

It’s officially spring! A time of reflection, celebration, and excitement as new growth beginsto sprout up from the once-frozen ground. Nature is reawakening to a fresh start, and youcan too!As we welcome colorful flowers, longer days, and warmer temps, it’s a great reminder to getmoving. If you made resolutions to improve your exercise routine and

Read More »

The Vein Venter at Heartcare Associates of Connecticut

March is already here! That means we’re another step closer to warmer temps, being active outdoors, and welcoming new spring flowers.  With so much to look forward to, the last thing you want to worry about is not feeling comfortable in your own skin. Unfortunately, many struggle this time of year due to unsightly varicose

Read More »

How to Get Rid of Spider Veins

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Spider veins may not be harmful to your health, but having them on your legs can affect how you feel about your appearance.

At HeartCare Associates of Connecticut, LLC, our vein specialists understand how upsetting it can be to see spider veins pop up on your body. 

Our team uses the latest advancements in vein care treatments, including laser therapy, to improve the health of your veins. By eliminating the noticeable veins, we can also improve the look of your legs.

Why you have spider veins

Spider veins are small, noticeable veins that develop just below the surface of your skin. The root cause of spider veins is venous insufficiency. This means that the valves in your veins that prevent the backflow of blood aren’t working properly.

Faulty valves allow blood to leak backwards and pool in the veins closest to the surface of your skin. This produces noticeable veins that are red, blue, or purple in color.

Spider veins are commonly found on your legs because blood has to fight the pressure of gravity to make its way back to your heart. When the veins that are deeper in your leg have venous insufficiency, it can result in varicose veins, which are enlarged, twisted veins that protrude from your skin.

You may have an increased risk for developing spider veins if you’re a woman, if you’re pregnant, or if your overweight or obese. 

In some cases, spider veins can disappear on their own over time. While you don’t need to treat spider veins for medical reasons, you may wish to do so for aesthetic reasons to enhance the appearance of your legs.

Treatment options for spider veins

At HeartCare Associates of Connecticut, LLC, we offer several minimally invasive options to eliminate spider veins.

Depending on your existing health and the severity of your spider veins, your treatment may include:

Laser therapy

Advanced technology delivers laser energy into the affected vein to seal it shut. The laser moves through the surface of your skin painlessly without incisions and without damaging surrounding skin.

Sclerotherapy

In some cases, sclerotherapy may be used to treat larger spider veins. Sclerotherapy involves injections of a special chemical into the vein. The chemical irritates the vein and causes it to collapse.

Tips for preventing additional spider veins

After your treatment for spider veins, we recommend several strategies for avoiding additional vein problems.

One effective preventative for spider veins is maintaining a healthy weight. You should also try to incorporate more exercise into your day and avoid sitting for long periods of time. When you do sit, practice good posture and avoid crossing your legs.

You can also wear compression stockings to support good blood circulation in your legs. These stockings are especially helpful when you do need to stand for an extended period of time, especially on hard surfaces.

If you’re looking for nonsurgical solutions to get rid of spider veins, call HeartCare Associates of Connecticut, LLC, to discuss your options for treatment.

Life-Saving Reasons to Get a Nuclear Cardiac Scan

Over 6 million Americans live with heart failure, and four out of five people don’t know they have it! This is because symptoms of heart issues aren’t always severe at first — But can end up in a visit to the emergency room. Early detection of heart disease and other conditions can be life-saving. Heart

Read More »

6 Tips for Summertime Health

The summertime might mean fun vacations to the beach, outdoor adventures, and backyard barbeques, but it can also be a dangerous time for your heart. More than 600 people in the United States die each year from extreme heat.  Hotter temperatures are known to put a strain on our cardiovascular health. This is especially true

Read More »

What to Expect at a Cardiovascular Disease Screening

Cardiovascular disease kills one person every 33 seconds in the United States. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for many racial and ethnic groups in the U.S. Taking care of your heart is vital to your overall health and well-being. That’s why it’s important to have regular cardiovascular health screenings to assess your

Read More »

National Stroke Awareness Month

More than 130,000 people die yearly from strokes in the U.S. Many others who survive are left with temporary or permanent disabilities.  We understand it can be scary to think about the possibility of a stroke. But luckily understanding the signs, knowing what to do, and taking preventative measures can help to avoid the severe

Read More »

5 Tips for Your Healthiest Spring Yet!

It’s officially spring! A time of reflection, celebration, and excitement as new growth beginsto sprout up from the once-frozen ground. Nature is reawakening to a fresh start, and youcan too!As we welcome colorful flowers, longer days, and warmer temps, it’s a great reminder to getmoving. If you made resolutions to improve your exercise routine and

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March is already here! That means we’re another step closer to warmer temps, being active outdoors, and welcoming new spring flowers.  With so much to look forward to, the last thing you want to worry about is not feeling comfortable in your own skin. Unfortunately, many struggle this time of year due to unsightly varicose

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Should I Be Worried About Heart Palpitations?

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When you experience noticeable changes in your heart’s rhythm or rate, it can understandably be a cause for concern.

Occasional heart palpitations aren’t typically something to worry about. But if you’re feeling persistent heart flutters, or your heart won’t stop racing, it’s best to check in with the expert cardiology team at HeartCare Associates of Connecticut to rule out underlying health issues.

Why you have heart palpitations

Heart palpitations describe the feeling of a fast-beating, pounding, or fluttering heart. You may feel like your heart is flip-flopping in your chest or skipping its normal beats.

These sensations can occur when you’re being physically active or while you’re resting. Many times, the palpitations only happen occasionally and last for a few seconds at a time.

Some of the most common causes of occasional heart palpitations include:

  • Stress
  • Fever
  • Depression
  • Physical exercise
  • Strong emotional responses

You can also experience heart palpitations if you use certain medications, illegal drugs, nicotine, or caffeine. 

Many women have heart palpitations during a pregnancy, in their transition to menopause, and during their monthly period.

When medical help is needed for heart palpitations

When you overexert yourself or consume too much caffeine, the resulting heart palpitations are generally nothing to worry about. 

However, if you have existing heart issues or notice that your condition is worsening, schedule a diagnostic evaluation with our team at HeartCare Associates of Connecticut.

If your heart palpitations are persistent, this may be a warning sign of underlying issues affecting your heart or other systems in your body. These conditions can include arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm), heart disease, and hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid disorder).

It’s always best to check in with the providers at HeartCare Associates of Connecticut for a comprehensive medical evaluation. You also need to seek medical care if you experience other symptoms in addition to the palpitations, such as:

  • Fainting
  • Chest pain
  • Severe dizziness
  • Sudden shortness of breath

Without treatment, severe arrhythmias can lead to life-threatening conditions like heart attack and stroke.

Identifying the underlying cause of heart palpitations

When you have ongoing palpitations and other symptoms of a possible heart condition, HeartCare Associates of Connecticut offers several diagnostic technologies on-site to quickly and accurately identify their root cause.

Blood work can detect hormone imbalances that indicate an underlying thyroid disorder. We also offer heart-monitoring technologies, including electrocardiogram (ECG) and exercise stress tests to evaluate your heart’s activity.

In some cases, you may need to wear a Holter monitor, a portable ECG device that records your heart’s electrical activity for 24 hours or longer. The monitor can detect arrhythmias and record heart palpitations in real-time, and you wear it as you go about your usual activities.

Treating worrisome heart palpitations

Once our cardiology team understands how your heart is working, we create a treatment plan to address the issues triggering your palpitations. This may include medications and other therapies, like a pacemaker to regulate your heartbeat and protect your overall heart health.

If your fluttering or pounding heart relates to environmental issues, like stress or strong emotions, the providers can work with you on techniques you can use to better manage stress. These may include engaging in daily, low-impact exercises, eating a healthy, well-balanced diet, and practicing breathing techniques to relax your body.

When frequent heart palpitations are a concern, you can rely on the expertise of our cardiology team at HeartCare Associates of Connecticut. Schedule an appointment by calling the office nearest you today. 

Life-Saving Reasons to Get a Nuclear Cardiac Scan

Over 6 million Americans live with heart failure, and four out of five people don’t know they have it! This is because symptoms of heart issues aren’t always severe at first — But can end up in a visit to the emergency room. Early detection of heart disease and other conditions can be life-saving. Heart

Read More »

6 Tips for Summertime Health

The summertime might mean fun vacations to the beach, outdoor adventures, and backyard barbeques, but it can also be a dangerous time for your heart. More than 600 people in the United States die each year from extreme heat.  Hotter temperatures are known to put a strain on our cardiovascular health. This is especially true

Read More »

What to Expect at a Cardiovascular Disease Screening

Cardiovascular disease kills one person every 33 seconds in the United States. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for many racial and ethnic groups in the U.S. Taking care of your heart is vital to your overall health and well-being. That’s why it’s important to have regular cardiovascular health screenings to assess your

Read More »

National Stroke Awareness Month

More than 130,000 people die yearly from strokes in the U.S. Many others who survive are left with temporary or permanent disabilities.  We understand it can be scary to think about the possibility of a stroke. But luckily understanding the signs, knowing what to do, and taking preventative measures can help to avoid the severe

Read More »

5 Tips for Your Healthiest Spring Yet!

It’s officially spring! A time of reflection, celebration, and excitement as new growth beginsto sprout up from the once-frozen ground. Nature is reawakening to a fresh start, and youcan too!As we welcome colorful flowers, longer days, and warmer temps, it’s a great reminder to getmoving. If you made resolutions to improve your exercise routine and

Read More »

The Vein Venter at Heartcare Associates of Connecticut

March is already here! That means we’re another step closer to warmer temps, being active outdoors, and welcoming new spring flowers.  With so much to look forward to, the last thing you want to worry about is not feeling comfortable in your own skin. Unfortunately, many struggle this time of year due to unsightly varicose

Read More »

How to Get Control of Your Obesity

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Obesity is a complex disease that can have a long-lasting impact on your general health. Achieving a healthy weight is essential for the long-term health of your body as a whole, especially your heart.

To help you get your weight under control, the heart health experts at HeartCare Associates of Connecticut offer compassionate, comprehensive weight-management services.

Our medical team provides the resources and support you need to achieve and maintain a healthy body weight. 

How do you define obesity?

Your body mass index (BMI) is a screening tool that’s used to calculate your weight to determine if you’re overweight or obese.

Your BMI is calculated by your weight in kilograms divided by your height in meters. If your results are 18.5 to under 25, your weight is considered in the healthy, normal range. 

If your BMI ranges from 25 to under 30, you’re considered to be overweight. Anything over 30 is classified as obese.

Obesity’s risk factors include your family history, your genetic background, and your lifestyle and diet. If you lack physical activity, use certain medications, or have environmental factors that trigger overeating, you may be more likely to be overweight or obese.

The effects of obesity of your body

People who are overweight or obese are at a significantly higher risk for numerous chronic health conditions. You may also be more likely to experience chronic joint pain and mobility issues from the constant weight being placed on your joints and other structures.

Just some of the medical consequences of obesity include:

You may also be at a higher risk for developing mental health conditions, like depression and anxiety, that lower your quality of life.

How to get control of your weight to fight obesity

One of the most essential things to remember about getting and staying in control of your weight is that your efforts must be long-term.

Here’s a list of things that you need to do consistently to lose weight and keep it off:

Stay focused on your diet

Overcoming obesity starts with making better nutrition choices. You shouldn’t follow extreme or fad diets to lose weight. In fact, you can learn how to eat what you like and still lose weight through calorie counting and portion control.

Learn how to read labels and eat foods that have the essential nutrients you need without the high calorie counts, like fresh vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats and other proteins.

Get physical

Physical activity is important for so many reasons. Daily exercise helps you lose weight and improves your heart health, blood circulation, and mental clarity.

The American Heart Association recommends getting at least 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise a day. Initially, you should aim for at least 60 minutes a day to start losing weight. 

Exercise can include anything that gets you moving, like walking, running, playing tennis, or attending a spin class.

Start a food journal

Write down everything you eat each day in a food journal, noting what you’re eating, how much, and at what time. This journal can help you recognize triggers that may cause you to overeat, such as stress or emotional issues.

With the help of our team at HeartCare Associates of Connecticut, you can evaluate your relationship with food to learn better eating habits.

Weigh in regularly

Invest in a quality scale that you can use at home to weight yourself at least once a week. However, it’s important to remember that muscle weighs more than fat, so as you continue with your healthier lifestyle, your scale may not show accurate readings.

For this reason, it’s important that you check in with your doctor at HeartCare Associates of Connecticut regularly. These checkups ensure that you’re losing weight safely, and our team can assess the positive impact that your weight loss is having on your heart health.

To get started on your weight loss journey, call the HeartCare Associates of Connecticut office nearest you or request an appointment through our online booking system today.

Life-Saving Reasons to Get a Nuclear Cardiac Scan

Over 6 million Americans live with heart failure, and four out of five people don’t know they have it! This is because symptoms of heart issues aren’t always severe at first — But can end up in a visit to the emergency room. Early detection of heart disease and other conditions can be life-saving. Heart

Read More »

6 Tips for Summertime Health

The summertime might mean fun vacations to the beach, outdoor adventures, and backyard barbeques, but it can also be a dangerous time for your heart. More than 600 people in the United States die each year from extreme heat.  Hotter temperatures are known to put a strain on our cardiovascular health. This is especially true

Read More »

What to Expect at a Cardiovascular Disease Screening

Cardiovascular disease kills one person every 33 seconds in the United States. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for many racial and ethnic groups in the U.S. Taking care of your heart is vital to your overall health and well-being. That’s why it’s important to have regular cardiovascular health screenings to assess your

Read More »

National Stroke Awareness Month

More than 130,000 people die yearly from strokes in the U.S. Many others who survive are left with temporary or permanent disabilities.  We understand it can be scary to think about the possibility of a stroke. But luckily understanding the signs, knowing what to do, and taking preventative measures can help to avoid the severe

Read More »

5 Tips for Your Healthiest Spring Yet!

It’s officially spring! A time of reflection, celebration, and excitement as new growth beginsto sprout up from the once-frozen ground. Nature is reawakening to a fresh start, and youcan too!As we welcome colorful flowers, longer days, and warmer temps, it’s a great reminder to getmoving. If you made resolutions to improve your exercise routine and

Read More »

The Vein Venter at Heartcare Associates of Connecticut

March is already here! That means we’re another step closer to warmer temps, being active outdoors, and welcoming new spring flowers.  With so much to look forward to, the last thing you want to worry about is not feeling comfortable in your own skin. Unfortunately, many struggle this time of year due to unsightly varicose

Read More »

Everything You Need to Know About Nuclear Cardiac Scanning

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Nuclear cardiac scanning is a diagnostic procedure that our team at HeartCare Associates of Connecticut uses to assess the function and health of your heart.

If you are having this type of heart scan, it’s important to understand everything you can about the procedure so you know what to expect.

An overview of nuclear cardiac scanning

Nuclear cardiac scanning provides your cardiologist with images of your heart. The procedure involves the injection of a radioactive material known as a tracer into your vein. This tracer moves through your bloodstream and up into your heart.

A special gamma camera is able to identify the energy that the tracer releases to form images of your heart. These images give your provider at HeartCare Associates of Connecticut some valuable information about the health and function of your heart. 

Your doctor can review the blood flow within your heart and identify damage to the heart muscle. This type of test can also identify conditions like coronary artery disease.

There are several types of nuclear cardiac scans. The one that we perform most often is called a myocardial perfusion imaging test.

How to prepare for a myocardial perfusion imaging test

In order to get the most accurate results of your myocardial perfusion test, your provider works with you ahead of time to make sure you prepare properly.

On the day of your test, you shouldn’t eat or drink for at least two hours before your test. You should also avoid caffeinated beverages, food, and medications for 24 hours before your test.

There are several medications you need to stop taking in the days before your myocardial perfusion imaging test. Your HeartCare Associates of Connecticut physician will review which medications you take regularly and give you specific instructions before your test.

What to expect during nuclear cardiac scanning

On the day of your nuclear cardiac scanning test, be sure to wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing and supportive shoes.

During a myocardial perfusion imaging test, you can expect two different tracer injections that the gamma camera will follow through your bloodstream. Once the tracers are injected into your body, you will perform a stress test on a treadmill.

If you’re unable to complete the treadmill activity, your provider can also complete the test while you rest and take a special medication.

Following your activity on a treadmill, your physician uses the gamma camera to capture images of your heart and identify areas of heart or blood vessel damage that requires additional diagnostic testing and treatment.

Safety of nuclear cardiac scanning

The risks associated with nuclear cardiac scanning are few. Your heart health will be continually monitored by an electrocardiogram (EKG) test throughout your procedure.

While radiation is used in the tracer, the small amount isn’t considered harmful. Some people have allergies to the tracer material, but this type of reaction is rare.

If you have existing coronary heart disease, you may experience chest discomfort and pain during the test. Your provider will monitor this type of side effect and provide you with medicine to treat your pain.

To find out more about the diagnostic benefits of nuclear cardiac scanning, consult with our team at HeartCare Associates of Connecticut by calling the office nearest you to schedule an appointment.

Life-Saving Reasons to Get a Nuclear Cardiac Scan

Over 6 million Americans live with heart failure, and four out of five people don’t know they have it! This is because symptoms of heart issues aren’t always severe at first — But can end up in a visit to the emergency room. Early detection of heart disease and other conditions can be life-saving. Heart

Read More »

6 Tips for Summertime Health

The summertime might mean fun vacations to the beach, outdoor adventures, and backyard barbeques, but it can also be a dangerous time for your heart. More than 600 people in the United States die each year from extreme heat.  Hotter temperatures are known to put a strain on our cardiovascular health. This is especially true

Read More »

What to Expect at a Cardiovascular Disease Screening

Cardiovascular disease kills one person every 33 seconds in the United States. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for many racial and ethnic groups in the U.S. Taking care of your heart is vital to your overall health and well-being. That’s why it’s important to have regular cardiovascular health screenings to assess your

Read More »

National Stroke Awareness Month

More than 130,000 people die yearly from strokes in the U.S. Many others who survive are left with temporary or permanent disabilities.  We understand it can be scary to think about the possibility of a stroke. But luckily understanding the signs, knowing what to do, and taking preventative measures can help to avoid the severe

Read More »

5 Tips for Your Healthiest Spring Yet!

It’s officially spring! A time of reflection, celebration, and excitement as new growth beginsto sprout up from the once-frozen ground. Nature is reawakening to a fresh start, and youcan too!As we welcome colorful flowers, longer days, and warmer temps, it’s a great reminder to getmoving. If you made resolutions to improve your exercise routine and

Read More »

The Vein Venter at Heartcare Associates of Connecticut

March is already here! That means we’re another step closer to warmer temps, being active outdoors, and welcoming new spring flowers.  With so much to look forward to, the last thing you want to worry about is not feeling comfortable in your own skin. Unfortunately, many struggle this time of year due to unsightly varicose

Read More »