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Am I at an increased risk for getting COVID if I have diabetes?

The risk for developing severe COVID-19 is higher in patients with chronic conditions that affect the cardiovascular and respiratory systems....

Could my heart medication make me more vulnerable to the coronavirus (COVID infection)?

Cardiovascular drugs have molecules that help them work well to control your heart condition, but some of these molecules have...

Can PFO closures be done successfully in diabetics?

Dear Vilas: There are contraindications for the procedure, but diabetes and age are not among them.

What can be done to keep ‘diabetic’ arteries from getting smaller?

There is no known method of enlarging the coronary arteries. Further treatment with stents may be needed, and possibly coronary...

Can Ramipril be prescribed for a hypertensive woman who has diabetes?

It can be given if the renal function is normal.

Is it safe to juice?

Dear David, Congratulations on your efforts to quit smoking. It is my understanding that the damage caused by smoking takes...

Is a heart rate of 146-155 too high when using an elliptical machine?

It is normal for the heart rate to go up to that level during exercise.

Is my lifestyle a significant contributory factor in/to my enlarged ascending aorta?

Although an enlarged ascending aorta can be seen in those who participate in chronic extreme physical activity, I would consider...

Can iron supplementation cause heart damage?

This is a complex issue. Typically the serum iron is correlated with the serum ferritin. The most important measure for...

I am a 26 year old woman pregnant with my 4th child. I am feeling extra heart beats throughout the day.  I have cut out caffeine, but this has not helped.  My blood pressure is normal, and my heart rate is 70 – 80 bpm.  Should I  be worried about this?

Skipped beats are common during pregnancy. Your primary care provider can start by having you wear an ambulatory monitor that...

I continue to have chest pain at rest and with exercise, and also notice palpitations. I have been given permission to continue on with regular activities and exercise. Should I be concerned?

Dear Amanda: Your 1st paragraph: wall motion abnormality V4-V6 is wrong. The rest of the findings and your symptoms do...

Is there a relationship between positive/negative thoughts and cardiac function?

Harish: The short answer is no. However, the levels of stress hormones in the blood are elevated during stress. Besides...