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Do I need to take statins?

Lisa, It sounds like you are making a strong effort to control your risk factors with a healthy lifestyle and...

Could my itching and rash have been from Plavix?

Yes, the timing is perfect (for it to have been related).

Does this scenario require antibiotics?

Hi Tariq, If you are referring to the guidelines for antibiotic prophylaxis for bacterial endocarditis, then the answer is no....

Is there a way to counteract the effect of blood-thinning medications such as Plavix and Xarelto?

Right now there is no clear way to reverse those two agents.

Does Texas Heart Institute use stem cell therapies for treating heart disease?

Dear Flavio, We are moving forward with stem cell research at THI. We are currently treating patients with heart failure...

Are there programs in Houston to lower cholesterol naturally (that follow up with blood tests to see if they are working)?

Hi Judy, Your profile sounds fairly high-risk with high cholesterol and family history. I don’t know of any such formal...

Is my father experiencing side effects from blood thinners?

Yes, these side effects are probably related to blood thinner (anticoagulants). Any patient on blood thinners should be closely monitored...

What other treatments are available for controlling atrial fib?

Beta blockers and Digoxin can be used to control heart rate individually or together. Alternatively, cardioversion can be considered. In...

Can LBBB be the cause of my shortness of breath?

LBBB should not cause shortness of breath. However, if the LBBB is associated with cardiomyopathy, it can cause shortness of...

What is causing my sister’s incessant nose bleeds?

Anticoagulants are most likely the cause, but may be necessary to prevent another stroke. She might ask an ear/nose/throat (ENT)...

Should I know what my blood viscosity is before starting aspirin?

Dear Ernie: The viscosity (rheology) of blood is very complex because it is a mixture of water, water soluble minerals...

How can I help regulate my INR with my diet?

The amount of vitamin K in your diet will play a role in the correct dose of warfarin. It is...