Cardiovascular News and Updates

Jared Davis, MD, an Archbold interventional cardiologist practicing with Cardiovascular Consultants of South Georgia, recently performed a minimally invasive procedure to close a patent foramen ovale (PFO). During fetal development, a small flap-like opening called the foramen ovale exists between the upper left and right chambers of the heart. This opening usually closes shortly after birth, but when it does not, the condition is called PFO. PFO is present in approximately 25% of the...

Archbold interventional cardiologist Clay Sizemore, MD, successfully implanted a first-of-its-kind dissolvable stent, making it the first FDA-approved case completed in the state of Georgia. The device is a newly FDA-approved treatment option for people with chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) below-the-knee (BTK). CLTI is a serious form of peripheral artery disease (PAD). CLTI BTK occurs when arteries become clogged with plaque, preventing blood flow and oxygen from reaching the...

“The blood pressure cuff plays a critical role in ensuring your measurements are spot on,” says Archbold Interventional Cardiologist Christopher L. Daniels, MD. “Getting this part right goes a long way toward more reliable blood pressure readings at home.” To steer clear of common slip-ups, here’s what you need to keep in mind: Select the Right Cuff Size: Ensure the cuff fits your arm properly. A cuff that's too small or too large can give false readings. Most cuffs...

“Sticking to a regular routine and keeping things consistent in your environment can really make a difference in your blood pressure readings,” said Archbold Cardiologist Adam T. Marlar. “By measuring your blood pressure at the same time each day, in a quiet place, and in the same sitting position, you help ensure that the numbers you see are reliable.” Here are a few things to keep in mind: Measure at the Same Time Each Day: Blood pressure fluctuates throughout...

How often you should measure your blood pressure varies based on your healthcare provider's recommendations and any health conditions you might have. “If you're dealing with hypertension or changes in your medication, your doctor might suggest checking your blood pressure several times a day,” said Archbold Interventional Cardiologist Pranav Diwan, MD. “If your situation is more stable, measuring a few times a week could be enough. Always tailor your monitoring frequency to fit...

Staying Heart Healthy in the South Georgia Heat Summertime in South Georgia is often synonymous with long days filled with sunshine and outdoor adventures. And while the warm weather invites us to enjoy these activities, it also demands a heightened awareness of our heart health. How the Heat Impacts Your Heart According to Archbold cardiologist Dr. Pallavi Luthra, when temperatures and humidity climb, your heart faces additional challenges. This combination causes your body...

WHEN YOUR HEART RACES, POUNDS OR SKIPS A BEAT, ALSO KNOWN AS HEART PALPITATIONS, IT’S IMPORTANT TO KNOW WHEN SOMETHING SERIOUS MIGHT BE HAPPENING. Heart palpitations are usually not serious—most are caused by a temporary disruption to the heart’s normal rhythm and can be triggered by dehydration, low blood sugar or too much caffeine. They may also occur when feeling anxious or stressed, but the fluttering usually fades. Such palpitations can be felt in your chest, throat or neck,...

Learning you or a loved one has cancer changes everything. You begin paying attention to things you normally take for granted, start holding family members a bit tighter and longer, and begin researching treatment options. During all this, you may not think about you or your loved one’s heart. Cancer treatment can increase the risk for heart disease both during and after treatment. Fortunately for residents of South Georgia and North Florida, Archbold offers cardiooncology to address...

Caring for patients’ cardiovascular health is one of the most important parts of Archbold’s mission. In recent years, we’ve expanded our heart and vascular services into outlying communities through satellite clinics and partnerships—and that expansion led to an uptick in patients seeking care at the Loudermilk Heart and Vascular Center. To keep up with demand, we launched a wide-scale renovation of the center last spring to expand our treatment capabilities and create a more...