Author: Holland Doran

Exemplary Cardiac Care Helps Carol Survive 9 Heart Attacks, CAD

Posted on by Holland Doran

For years, Carol denied that she was having heart problems. Chest pain had her taking Aspirin and nitrate pills regularly, but she didn’t act until she had to call an ambulance.

“Eventually it gets to you, and you have to accept that you have a problem,” Carol said.

And she did have a problem: coronary artery disease (CAD).

Living with CAD, Carol was no stranger to cardiovascular emergencies. After suffering her third heart attack and receiving unsatisfactory care at a healthcare institution, she was rushed to Arkansas Heart Hospital (AHH). There she underwent a cath procedure, which revealed a severe blockage. Dr. Ian Cawich, a coronary and peripheral vascular interventionalist, performed an emergency stent.

“I’ve stuck with the Arkansas Heart Hospital ever since,” Carol said. “The care I received was first-class. The nurses there are a class unto themselves! The doctors always took the time to explain everything very well. And Chaplain Shelby is the sweetest man I’ve ever met.”

Over the years, Carol has lived through nine heart attacks and underwent a triple bypass and many stents at AHH. While it has tested her resolve, she has found exemplary care and support from the AHH team and interventional cardiologist, Dr. Daniel Sherbet.

“Dr. Sherbet has always taken his time with me and is kind,” she said. “I always trust him. There’s that strong trust there.”

Though Carol must take constant measures to manage CAD, she has lived an active life. Fishing, kayaking and reading are her favorite hobbies.

Carol has an important piece of advice: listen to your body.

“Whether you ignore it or not, it’s going to continue to tell you until you call an ambulance or drop dead,” she said. “So many people just ignore it, but I’ve gotten used to it and I know what will happen if I don’t pay attention to my body. If it tells me to call Dr. Sherbet’s office, then I’m calling Dr. Sherbet’s office.”

What is her second piece of advice? Choose AHH.

“If I have to call somebody in Little Rock, it’s going to be Arkansas Heart,” she said. “If I have to see someone in an emergency, it’s going to be Arkansas Heart. I’ve never had a bad experience there.”

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Don’t let heart disease sneak up on you. Our cardiac experts are here to care for your heart and help you take the steps to prevent cardiovascular disease, heart attacks, peripheral vascular disease and more. View our services and find a clinic near you.

What are the risk factors for cardiovascular disease?

What You Should Know About Cardiac Catheterization

Posted on by Holland Doran

Cardiac catheterization, also known as a heart cath, is a valuable tool in the diagnosis and treatment of various cardiovascular conditions. It provides detailed information about the structure and function of the heart and allows for minimally invasive interventions to address specific cardiac issues.

Dr. Patrick Flaherty, interventional cardiologist, explains what happens during a heart cath procedure.

“A heart cath is how we make a roadmap of what is going on with somebody’s coronary artery tree,” he said. “We find an artery that has an open pathway to the heart, and we insert an intra-arterial line that will allow us to run a plastic tube known as a catheter either up the arm or through the femoral groin arteries that will be directed under x-ray to the coronary arteries.”

Once the catheter is in place, dye (contrast) is delivered through the catheter, and x-ray images are taken to visualize the blood flow.

“The contrast will replace blood flow for a very short period, typically a couple of seconds, and allows us to see if the flow is wide open or if there is a sudden obstruction to that flow where there is a blockage,” Dr. Flaherty said.

How Long Does a Heart Cath Take?

The duration of the procedure can vary but generally takes around 30 minutes to two hours, depending on the complexity of the case and whether any interventions are performed.

Who Needs a Heart Cath?

A cardiac catheterization procedure may be recommended for individuals who are experiencing symptoms or have risk factors for various heart conditions. Some common indications for cardiac catheterization include:

  • Chest pain (angina)
  • Heart attack
  • Abnormal stress test or imaging results
  • Heart valve disease
  • Congenital heart defects
  • Heart failure

It’s important to note that the decision to undergo cardiac catheterization is made based on individual patient factors, including symptoms, medical history, and results of other diagnostic tests. The procedure is typically recommended when the potential benefits outweigh the risks for the individual patient.

What are the Risks of a Heart Cath?

Like any medical procedure, cardiac catheterization carries some risks, including bleeding, infection, allergic reaction to the contrast dye, damage to blood vessels, and complications related to anesthesia. Your doctor will discuss these risks with you before the procedure.

How Long is the Recovery Time After a Heart Cath?

After the procedure, you will be monitored for a few hours to ensure stability. You may need to lie flat for a period of time to minimize the risk of bleeding from the catheter insertion site. Most patients can return home the same day but should avoid strenuous activities for a few days.

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We know how critical a healthy heart is to a healthy body. It’s through our highest expectations in quality and excellence through innovation that we’re able to keep our patients’ hearts healthy for years to come. Want to learn more about our patient-centered, specialized cardiac care? Discover our wide range of cardiac care services or ask your primary care provider for a referral today.

Learn what to expect before, during and after a heart cath at AHH.

Should I Go to the ER or Cardiologist?

Posted on by Holland Doran

When deciding whether to go to an emergency room (ER) or make an appointment with your primary care doctor or cardiologist, it is important to consider the symptoms you are experiencing and the severity of them. Dr. Vijay Raja, interventional cardiologist, explains.

When to go the ER

“If you’re having any symptoms that are out of the ordinary or brand new, debilitating or just scary, that’s what an emergency room is perfect for. That’s why Arkansas Heart Hospital is open 24/7 and available,” says Dr. Raja.

Debilitating symptoms may be chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting, which can be signs of a heart attack. You seek medical attention by calling 911 or visiting your nearest ER right away.

Symptoms of a heart attack:

  • Severe or persistent pain – If you’re experiencing severe, persistent, or new and unexplained chest pain that doesn’t go away with medication, rest, or over-the-counter medication, seek emergency medical attention. This may feel like a crushing or searing pain that radiates to your arms, neck, jaws or back.
  • Shortness of breath – Unexplained difficulty breathing or feeling like you can’t catch your breath, could be a sign of a heart or lung condition. Go to the ER instead of waiting to make an appointment with a cardiologist.
  • Dizziness or fainting – If you’re experiencing if you’re feeling dizzy, lightheaded or faint, this could be a sign of a cardiac event. Seek medical attention as soon as possible.

When to make an appointment with a doctor

What if you are not experiencing these severe symptoms? It’s better to make an appointment with your primary care doctor or cardiologist for further testing and evaluation rather than going to the ER.

“For things that are progressive and are not doing as well as they were a week ago, a month ago, six months ago, that’s when your primary care doctor and cardiologist are there to get testing and rule out certain things,” Dr. Raja says. “That’s what we do for a lot of patients – give them that peace of mind that it is or not their heart.”

A benefit of making an appointment with a doctor if they know your health history, what medications you are taking and what chronic conditions might need to be considered in your treatment. Plus, the co-pay for a visit to your doctor’s office will cost far less than a trip to the emergency room. This option can also help you avoid the long wait times typically found in an emergency room.

Even if you are not experiencing any major symptoms, it is always a good idea to make an appointment with your doctor, who will do a physical exam and review your medical history to determine if you should be referred to a cardiologist for further testing and treatment.

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Sudden cardiac arrest can happen anywhere, anytime to anyone, often without warning. That’s why it’s vital to know how to use an AED. Arkansas Heart Hospital walks you through the steps.

Determine your risk for cardiovascular disease and take action today by talking with one of our cardiologists or your primary care physician.

Essential Ingredients for a Well-Stocked Pantry

Posted on by Holland Doran

A pantry stocked with basic ingredients is one of the secrets to making cooking easier, convenient and enjoyable for anyone, especially those on the bariatric surgery eating plan.

“A well-stocked pantry keeps you in control of your meal choices and makes meal prep/planning a breeze,” says Courtney, bariatric dietician at The Bariatric & Metabolic Institute at Arkansas Heart Hospital.

To help you start your journey to the perfect pantry, Courtney has assembled a list of pantry basics you can pick up today.

Spices and seasoning blends:

Spices and seasonings are the backbone of flavor in cooking. With little effort, they transform a simple dish into something delicious for the whole family.

  • Aromatics
  • Basic seasoning blend-garlic powder/pepper/kosher salt
  • Bay leaves
  • Black peppercorns
  • Chili powder
  • Chipotle chili pepper
  • Chinese five-spice powder
  • Cumin
  • Curry powder
  • Dill Weed
  • Everything but the Bagel
  • Garlic powder
  • Ground cayenne red pepper
  • Italian seasoning
  • Kosher salt
  • Lemon pepper
  • McCormick Mediterranean
  • Mexican Seasoning Blend
  • Onion powder
  • Onions
  • Paprika (regular & smoked)
  • Poultry seasoning
  • Rosemary
  • Sea salt
  • Shallots
  • Slap Ya Mama
  • Spiced Sea Salt
  • Thyme
  • Tony Chachere’s
  • Whole garlic cloves

If you like garlic with a little kick, try this grilled pork tenderloin and firecracker slaw.

A selection of high-quality oils and vinegars is essential for enhancing flavors and creating dressings and marinades.

Vinegars/Oils:

  • Apple cider vinegar
  • Canola oil
  • Extra virgin olive oil*
  • Red wine vinegar
  • Rice bran oil
  • Rice wine vinegar (unseasoned)
  • Rice wine vinegar*
  • Sea salt
  • Sesame oil*
  • White vinegar
  • White wine vinegar

Don’t forget the stocks. Better than Bouillon is one of our dieticians’ favorites!

Broths/stocks:

  • Better than Bouillon*
  • Bone broth

Condiments and sauces can elevate the taste of any dish and add complexity to your meals. We highly recommend these essentials.

Condiments/miscellaneous

  • Almond flour
  • Canned chicken
  • Salmon packets*
  • Soy sauce
  • Splenda or other calorie free sweeteners
  • Sugar free ketchup
  • Tuna packets*
  • Worcestershire sauce

You’ll find at least one of these basic ingredients in all our bariatric-approved recipes. Having them on hand makes meal planning and preparation so much easier.

*Refrigerate after opening.

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The Bariatric & Metabolic Institute at Arkansas Heart Hospital offers physical and mental support for life. When you need healthy recipes, our team is there with guidance and resources to help through clinic appointments, a private support group and weekly live discussions on a variety of topics.

Find a bariatric surgeon at BMI, learn if you qualify for bariatric surgery and see our weight loss surgery financing options.

Three Fridge Items to Toss Out for a Healthy Diet

Posted on by Holland Doran

Beginning a healthy diet starts with one of the most essential places in your home – the fridge. Getting rid of the not so healthy products in your fridge can help put you in the right mindset and reduce temptation so you are set up for success.

Courtney, dietitian at the Bariatric & Metabolic Institute (BMI) at Arkansas Heart Hospital, shares items that she suggests bariatric patients, those wanting to lose weight or anyone eating a healthy diet, should toss out.

Liquid Calories

Courtney SutterfieldRemove sugary drinks like soda and juices. Seemingly harmless, these sugary drinks can stop weight loss progress and even make you gain pounds. One can of soda has around 39 grams of sugar, 39 grams of carbs and 150 calories. This means that drinking one soda a day could lead to a pound of weight gain every 13 days.

Unfortunately, juices are in the same category as soda. Although marketed as healthy, they are packed with sugar, calories and carbs that can stall weight loss and can cause insulin resistance, which can lead to conditions such as type 2 diabetes.

If you’re looking for a healthy way to add flavor to your drinks, Courtney suggests adding lemons and limes to your bottled water.

High Carb Condiments

Condiments are sneaky. Items like BBQ sauce, ketchup and salad dressings are tasty for a reason – they contain sugar and preservatives, which can increase body fat and put a kink in your healthy diet. And no one eats only one serving of these condiments. Some BBQ sauces contain 7 grams of sugar and carbs per tablespoon.

If you can’t live without condiments, Courtney suggests opting for sugar free ketchup, BBQ sauce, steak sauce, marinades and dipping sauces. Her favorite is G Hughes BBQ sauce, which contains only 10 calories and no carbs or sugar per 2 tablespoons.

Freezer Foods

Premade, frozen meals are quick, easy and may be marketed as healthy, but unfortunately, they are quick and easy because they are packed with sugars, carbs and preservatives.

If you want convenience, replace frozen meals with frozen vegetables, which retain nutrients, vitamins and minerals, are low-cost and can reduce food waste.

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If you’re looking for a safe and effective solution to weight loss and weight-related conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea and more, our team is ready to chat about your bariatric surgery options. Get started at bmi.arheart.com.

5 Tips to Protect Your Heart in the Cold

Posted on by Holland Doran

Dr. Mahesh BavineniResearch shows that 30 percent of heart attacks occur during the cold winter months, and those with heart conditions are particularly susceptible to cardiac events. Why would cold weather affect your heart?

Dr. Mahesh Bavineni, general cardiologist, explains that temperatures below 30 degrees causes blood vessels in your skin, toes and fingers to constrict to avoid losing heat.

“This causes a lot of burden on the heart’s pumping system, so your heart must pump faster, harder to keep you warm. People who have blockages in the heart or are at risk for heart problems are more prone to heart attacks.”

He shares five tips to protect your heart in cold temperatures.

Avoid long exposure to the cold.

If you must go outside, don’t stay long and make sure you’re well-insulated. “If you know you’re going to be in the cold dress up in water-resistant layers: coat, scarf, hat and gloves,” Dr. Bavineni says.

Limit strenuous exercise.

Shoveling snow or engaging in strenuous activities outside can put extra strain on your heart. “You don’t need to shovel snow if you have heart conditions,” Dr. Bavineni says. “Ask your neighbor or phone a friend for help.”

Watch over-eating and alcohol.

It’s easy to indulge in food and alcohol in the winter months, especially if you struggle with seasonal affective disorder or “winter blues.” Avoid overconsumption of fatty, rich foods and alcohol, which puts even more strain on your heart.

Stick to a heart healthy diet.

Eating for heart health doesn’t end in the summer. Eat your veggies, fruits, lean proteins and whole grains during the winter to support your cardiovascular system all year.

Listen to your body.

If you’re having symptoms, go to the ER and talk with your doctor, Dr. Bavineni stresses. Before the winter hits, make sure you know the signs of a heart attack.

Sudden cardiac arrest can occur anywhere, anytime to anyone, often without warning. Take your heart health in your own hands and learn your cardiovascular for cardiac arrest, heart attack and stroke risk before it’s too late. Discover our wide range of cardiac care services or ask your primary care provider for a referral today.

Dr. Bavineni talks with KATV about how cold weather affects the heart.

Courtney Goes from Wishing to Doing After Losing 120 Pounds with Weight loss Surgery

Posted on by Holland Doran

Struggling with an extra 120 pounds, Courtney chose gastric sleeve surgery at the Bariatric & Metabolic Institute (BMI) at Arkansas Heart Hospital to help reverse high blood pressure, improve mental health and create memories with his family. Read his story.

Going Downhill

I struggled for many years trying to lose weight. I would lose it with extreme dieting or diet clinics, then gain it back. I got to a point where I just couldn’t lose weight and life was definitely going downhill.

Activities like family vacations would depress me. I was always tired and would try to avoid walking long distances. I couldn’t enjoy the things with my kids that I wanted to. I was past the weight limit or couldn’t safely fasten the safety belts for a lot of attractions, so I would spend a lot of time watching and wishing.

In public I always felt like people were judging my size. Clothes shopping was the worst because I couldn’t find anything that fit properly.

Nothing to Lose

After trying everything that I could to lose and maintain weight loss and developing high blood pressure, my wife mentioned the gastric sleeve procedure. At that point I had nothing to lose from scheduling a consultation at BMI with Dr. J.D. Fuller.

Dr. Fuller was kind and respectful. He made sure I understood my options and had a clear understanding of what results I should expect. He asked me how I would like to lose 100 pounds in a year. I thought, yeah, right. By the time I walked out he had convinced me. I decided that I was tired of struggling with it and began working on the steps to get approved for gastric sleeve surgery, which I had in July 2021.

Feeling Respected

The BMI team was unlike anything I’ve experienced at a clinic or hospital. They are better than whatever you think great is — no exaggeration. Everyone smiles and treats you with respect and goes out of their way to help if any issues arise.

Dr. Fuller and Courtney

No More Sidelines

I’ve lost 120 pounds, and my life is constantly improving. My blood pressure and snoring has improved, I feel more comfortable, have more energy and endurance, and can truly enjoy life.

The most important thing is I can keep up with my family and do and enjoy activities that I couldn’t. I like lifting weights, but I’ve also been able to jog, kayak and I’m trying to get into hiking.

The only regret I have about the surgery is not getting it sooner. It’s definitely a life-changing event.

Courtney after weight loss

Finding Community

BMI’s support is awesome, especially in the patient support group. You might feel a certain type of way, and someone will post that they went through the same thing. It’s always good to talk with someone going through what you’ve been through.

None of this would have been possible without the support of Dr. Fuller, my family and friends, and the patient support group. It’s a daily grind but I’m still working.

Take the First Step

I absolutely recommend BMI when people ask me about surgery. Why? From the moment I walked into the clinic everyone I spoke with and had contact with was extremely respectful. I didn’t feel judged or pressured. Even after the surgery they will be there for any questions and provide resources.

I would tell people who are on the fence that if they have been trying to lose weight and nothing else has worked, why not at least get in for a consultation and see what the options are.

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The experts at BMI can help you shed the burden of weight-related conditions and find renewed energy and improved health. Start your journey at bmi.arheart.com.

Bariatric surgery: what are my options?

Aliyah Loses 125 Pounds, Overcomes PCOS After Life-Changing Gastric Bypass Surgery

Posted on by Holland Doran

Battling both excess weight and PCOS, Aliyah chose bariatric surgery at the Bariatric & Metabolic Institute at Arkansas Heart Hospital to create a brighter, happier future for her family. Read her story.

Fed Up With the Fight

The main reason I wanted to lose weight was because it was affecting my life. I remember going to an amusement park with my family and having a hard time getting on a ride. I had lunch and tried to get on the same ride again with my sister and I couldn’t fit. I had to have that walk of shame off the ride, which was really hard.

I was also diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) when I was 18 and was told that I could possibly never have children. I fell into a deep depression and food became my coping mechanism.

Easy Choice

I did a lot of research on bariatric surgery and found that AHH had a brand new, state-of-the-art hospital with the best doctors in the state. It wasn’t a hard choice; I knew that this is where I wanted to go.

My first step was doing an online seminar, which wasn’t hard. I made a consultation appointment where I met my dietitian and Dr. Oscar Talledo. At that appointment we discussed my different options and what route I wanted to go, and ultimately, we decided on the gastric bypass.

Happy Tears

Since surgery, I have lost about 125 pounds and my PCOS symptoms are non-existent. My doctor said I would have no problems at all having children. I kid you not, I cried happy tears. I was just so happy to hear that because I want to have a family.

After losing around 125 pounds, my quality of life back and I can do things I was not able to before. I would walk up a flight of stairs and I would be out of breath. Now I’m walking six to seven miles every day.

Before I couldn’t even think about furthering my education. Now that I have my health under control, I’m able to work full-time and go to school, which I never thought I would be able to accomplish.

I have learned how to take care of my body & I’ve learned to love myself in my own skin.

Aliyah and Dr. Talledo

All Worth It

It was the best decision I could have ever made for myself and my family. The first month or so was hard, but now I know without a doubt that it was all worth it. I would 100 percent do it all again because I know I’m going to live a longer, happier life.

I want to thank Dr. Talledo, doctors and staff at BMI because they went above and beyond through my entire process. I genuinely felt how much they care about their patients. You guys are awesome!

To someone considering surgery, I would tell them 100 percent to do it.

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BMI strives to make permanent weight loss a reality through personalized attention and innovative surgical options. From insurance approvals to emotional and physical wellness, we are here for you every step of the way. Start your journey by watching our quick and easy informational seminar.

Learn the 12 questions you should ask your doctor before weight loss surgery.

Get Festive with a Low-Calorie Cranberry Lime Mocktail

Posted on by Holland Doran

If you’re seeking a festive bariatric friendly alternative to the traditional cocktail, look no further than the cranberry lime mocktail. It’s the perfect way to have your “fancy” drink without extra calories. Grab these three ingredients and get to shaking!

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup diet cranberry juice (Ocean Spray cran-cherry preferred)
  • Diet ginger beer*
  • Juice of 1 lime

Directions:

  1. Mix all ingredients together and stir well.
  2. Garnish with a lime wedge and rosemary. Serve in a copper mug.

*We suggest waiting three months post-surgery before trying carbonated beverages. If carbonation is tolerated, you may use a Canada Dry sugar-free drink packet instead of ginger beer.

This recipe is appropriate for liver shrinking and lifetime bariatric plans.

Nutrition per recipe:

  • Calories: 5-10
  • Carbs: 2g net
  • Fat: 0g
  • Protein: 0g

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We believe food should taste good. That’s why our bariatric dieticians provide a wealth of delicious recipes for our patients, no matter the eating plan they’re on. Learn how you can start your journey to a new improved you at bmi.arheart.com.

Down 120 Pounds, Korey Feels 20 Years Younger, Hopeful for the Future

Posted on by Holland Doran

At more than 300 pounds, a stress test revealed that Korey may not have many quality years ahead of him. Gastric bypass surgery at the Bariatric & Metabolic Institute (BMI) at Arkansas Heart Hospital (AHH) changed that uncertainty to hope for the future. Read his story.

A Step to Save His Life

I was having chest pains, and my wife took me AHH where they performed a stress test, and I didn’t pass. My doctor said with the condition I was in, I didn’t have quality years ahead of me. I was 53 at the time, and he said I would be lucky to see 60. He referred me to BMI where I met Dr. J.J. Tucker.

During my first visit with Dr. Tucker, we hit it off really well. I felt like he understood me and the position I was in. I wanted to be a family man and have a life with my kids and grandchildren. Together, we made a plan and after speaking with my wife, I decided I would have the gastric bypass.

Before surgery, I had to prepare myself for a complete lifestyle change. Once you make those changes, it becomes every day and not so bad. You find out healthy food is good food. I still love food; I just eat smaller portions now.

On the Other Side

I started losing weight faster than I would have imagined and started feeling better than I ever thought I could. I tell my friends that before I was 53 but felt like I was going on about 85. Now at 54 and 180 pounds, I feel like I’m 30 again.

Prior to surgery I went through some mental problems, and I think a lot of that was associated with the way I felt. I was facing a life of difficulty getting up and making it through the day like a person should be able to. Now that I’ve gone through the gastric bypass, every day I wake up ready to go. I’m a much happier person and I feel like my life is such more fulfilling.

As a grandfather, my new granddaughter is one of the reasons I had my bypass. I need to be around for a long time for this beautiful little girl. My heart is filled with love!

Unmatched Support

My dietitian, Courtney, has become the angel that I needed. She kindly listens, understands and leads me in the best direction. She’s not only my nutritionist, she’s also my friend.

The private patient support group is very encouraging. I respond to fellow members questions and photos, because I remember how much that support meant to me. When I first started, I wanted what other patients had. Now, people will tell me that I’m an inspiration to them – it’s all well worth it.

Grateful

Thank you so much to Dr. Tucker, Courtney, Jenny, Maleah, Nick and all the wonderful doctors, nurses and staff who are there for me. You have added so many wonderful years to my life and most of all truly gave me a new lease on life. I would do it again in a heartbeat.

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Our nationally recognized team of surgeons, dietitians, nurses and therapists are here to guide you to a longer, healthier, more fulfilling life through bariatric surgery. Go to bmi.arheart.com for surgery qualifications, options, process, and to watch our free online on-demand seminar.

Read 11 tips to avoid weight regain after weight loss surgery.