Women face unique heart health risks, especially as they age. Research shows that women in poor health have nearly five times the risk of heart disease compared to those in ideal health. At WMCHealth, specialists highlight the impact of hormonal changes during menopause, lifestyle factors like stress and inactivity, and social determinants such as income and access to care. Symptoms in women often differ from men and can be misdiagnosed, making education and prevention critical. Regular checkups, staying active, and managing blood pressure are key steps women can take to protect their heart health. Learn more or schedule an appointment at WMCHealth.
Category Archives: Cardiovascular Care
Is Your Heart Ready for That Energy Drink?
Too much caffeine, especially from energy drinks and supplements, can be dangerous for the heart—even in young, healthy individuals. Dr. Alan Gass of WMCHealth explains that high doses of caffeine combined with intense exercise may trigger abnormal heart rhythms and increase the risk of sudden cardiac events. Some energy drinks contain over 200 milligrams of caffeine per can, and when combined with coffee or other sources, the total intake can rise quickly. To stay safe, it’s important to understand your baseline heart rate and blood pressure, ease into new workout routines, avoid energy drinks before exercising, and maintain a balanced approach to fitness that includes cardio, core, and flexibility. For those concerned about heart health, WMCHealth offers same-day cardiology appointments by calling 914.909.6917.
TAVR: An Effective Treatment for Aortic Stenosis
Severe aortic stenosis affects 1 in 50 Americans over 65, increasing the risk of heart failure and sudden cardiac death. Fortunately, treatment options like Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) offer a minimally invasive alternative to open-heart surgery.
TAVR allows cardiologists to replace a diseased aortic valve using a catheter, leading to faster recovery, fewer complications, and improved quality of life.
“TAVR allows us to treat high-risk patients who may not be candidates for open-heart surgery,” says Dr. Ahmed Alabbady, Director of the Structural Heart Program at Good Samaritan Hospital.
Freedom from Blood Thinners: How this Device Helps AFib Patients
What if you could prevent AFib strokes without blood thinners?
At WMCHealthm, we are offering freedom from blood thinners while protecting against stroke. This tiny, umbrella-shaped implant has helped thousands of patients say goodbye to:
– Daily blood thinner medications
– Dietary restrictions
– Frequent blood monitoring
– Worries about bleeding risks
“Having performed hundreds of successful WATCHMAN procedures, our team has seen firsthand how this technology transforms patients’ lives,” says Gunjan Shukla, MD, a cardiac electrophysiologist at Good Samaritan Hospital, WMCHealth.
Contact us today at 866.WMC.HEART to learn more about the procedure and whether it’s right for you.
Ensuring Women’s Heart Health During Pregnancy: WMCHealth’s Comprehensive Care Approach
With only 40 percent of women in the U.S. entering pregnancy with optimal heart health, the need for specialized cardiac care during pregnancy has never been more urgent. WMCHealth is meeting this challenge head-on with an innovative program that brings together cardiology and maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) specialists under one roof—a collaboration that’s transforming care forContinue reading “Ensuring Women’s Heart Health During Pregnancy: WMCHealth’s Comprehensive Care Approach”
Pioneering Mid-Delivery Open-Heart Surgery Saves Baby with Congenital Defect
Just a few short months ago, mother-to-be Megan Wild was excitedly preparing for the arrival of her first child.However, at her 20-week check-up, the joyous anticipation of motherhood turned into a daunting reality. Her doctor delivered devastating news: Her unborn son was diagnosed with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, a rare and life-threatening congenital heart defectContinue reading “Pioneering Mid-Delivery Open-Heart Surgery Saves Baby with Congenital Defect”
A Lifesaving Assist: How Quick Action on the Ice Saved a Hockey Player’s Life
“I don’t remember much, honestly,” Del Santo recalls. “One minute I was playing, and the next, I woke up in the hospital.”
After a Heart Transplant This TV Chef Has a New Life Recipe
Lorenzo Beronilla is an actor and former tennis player who gained recognition as a food influencer. His initial fame came as a regular on the widely popular, Epicurious YouTube “Four Levels of…” series, which has tens of millions of views. Lorenzo later competed – and won – an episode Bravo TV’s Top Chef Amateurs series. Healthy and fitContinue reading “After a Heart Transplant This TV Chef Has a New Life Recipe”
Women Can Have Heart Attacks, Too: Signs You Should Know
Medically reviewed by Amala Chirumamilla, MDHeart attacks aren’t discriminatory — they can affect anyone, regardless of gender. However, the signs of a heart attack in women can sometimes differ from the classic symptoms often portrayed in the media. Understanding these signs is crucial for timely intervention and potentially life-saving actions.What to Look ForLearn to RecognizeContinue reading “Women Can Have Heart Attacks, Too: Signs You Should Know”