As part of Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month, News Channel 11 sat down with local cardiologist Dr. Jeffrey Schoondyke to better understand the condition that can completely blindside families. “The key feature in Sudden Cardiac Death is usually the heart becomes involved in a very dangerous arrhythmia,” Schoondyke said. “You’ve heard of people that walk […]
It’s about the patients. That’s Karing Hearts Cardiology CEO Dr. Jeff Schoondyke’s stated rationale for a now successful effort to gain permission for a freestanding cardiac catheterization lab in Johnson City. Karing Hearts succeeded in gaining a certificate of need for a standalone cath lab in a hearing on Sept. 28, before Tennessee’s Health Facilities […]
Many people see a new year as a new beginning. A chance to restart the cycle by ditching bad habits and replacing them with positive ones. If you have heart disease, consider bringing in the new year with some heart patient New Year’s resolutions!
Patients with heart disease often experience fatigue for a variety of reasons, usually caused by multiple factors working together. We are here to tell you that you are not alone and there are things you can do to feel better and increase your energy levels.
Peripheral arterial disease is essentially cholesterol build up in the arteries outside the heart. It can cause stroke, loss of limbs and dysfunction to the internal organs. Read more about what it is and how to prevent it!
Exercise is helpful in many ways for your overall health, including your cardiovascular system. It lowers your risk of chronic conditions like heart disease, depression, high blood sugar, many types of cancers, stroke and dementia, to name a few.
Sleep helps the brain function properly and fight off diseases. Consistent sleep can help lower your risk for chronic conditions.
A stroke is like a heart attack in the brain. Both occur when the artery is blocked which prevents proper blood flow to the heart or brain.
Diabetes and heart disease are two conditions that tend to co-exist in a patient’s medical history. Learn how they correlate and how to lower your risk.
Your body produces cholesterol to help maintain a healthy cardiovascular system, cellular function and brain function. Learn what your numbers should be and how to attain them.
A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is an invasive heart procedure where an ultrasound probe is inserted into your esophagus (food pipe). A transesophageal echocardiogram allows your cardiologist to acquire detailed pictures pertaining to the structure, function and any valvular heart disease that many be present. This procedure demonstrates your cardiac function in much greater detail than a standard transthoracic echocardiogram.
Prior to your procedure, you should not have any food or drink for 8-12 hours. In most cases, you will be able to take your home medications as scheduled. Your cardiologist / healthcare provider will advise you if there are any requirements to alter your medication schedule. Prior to your transesophageal echocardiogram, the technologist will insert an IV in your arm as a safety precaution to begin the test. This will allow sedation to be given to make you more comfortable during your procedure. During your procedure, you will be required to lie flat for approximately 30 minutes while the test is being completed. After your transesophageal echocardiogram, you will need to refrain from driving for approximately 12 hours and will need someone to accompany you home after the procedure. You can return to your normal activities the morning after your procedure.
