Welcome to Beatwise The Podcast! This is the first episode of our special three-part series with Hypertension Society UK, where we dive deep into one of the most pressing health concerns today - high blood pressure. Joining me is Dr. Pauline Swift, nephrologist and Chairperson of Blood Pressure UK, to uncover the silent but deadly dangers of hypertension.

In this episode, we break down the fundamentals of blood pressure, why it’s a major risk factor for heart disease, strokes, and kidney failure, and the key numbers everyone should know. Dr. Swift shares practical strategies to keep your blood pressure in check, including dietary changes, exercise, and lifestyle habits that can make all the difference. We also discuss the role of public health campaigns, early detection, and patient empowerment in tackling this global health issue.

Whether you have high blood pressure or want to prevent it, this conversation is packed with essential health insights you won’t want to miss.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] – Introduction: Why high blood pressure is called the "silent killer"

[00:43] – Welcome to Beatwise The Podcast and our 3-part series with Hypertension Society UK

[01:24] – What is blood pressure, and why does it matter?

[02:51] – The critical numbers you should know to stay healthy

[03:37] – Global guidelines for managing hypertension

[05:06] – Why regular blood pressure monitoring is crucial for prevention

[07:33] – The dangerous consequences of untreated high blood pressure

[12:49] – Lifestyle changes that can lower blood pressure naturally

[16:28] – The impact of public health campaigns in raising awareness

[19:20] – Practical tips and resources to manage blood pressure effectively

[27:37] – Final thoughts: Prevention is your superpower

Links & Resources:

Blood Pressure UK – Trusted resources on hypertension management

Hypertension Society UK – Research, guidelines, and expert insights

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to Beatwise The Podcast. Your support helps me reach more listeners and continue providing valuable content.

Share it with friends and family to help spread awareness about the importance of heart health and blood pressure management. Stay tuned for part two of this special series.

Don't forget to follow me on social media @sarah.theheartdoc for the latest updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more engaging discussions. Stay connected and be part of our growing community!

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Illicit drug use isn't just a mental or social issue - it can be a ticking time bomb for your heart. In this episode of Beatwise The Podcast, I sit down with Dr. George Cocks to explore the serious cardiovascular risks linked to substances like cocaine, methamphetamines, heroin, LSD, marijuana, and ketamine. We break down how these drugs affect heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and overall heart function, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure.

But this conversation isn’t just about the science - we also tackle the real-world implications. How can healthcare professionals navigate the stigma around drug use and have open, judgment-free discussions with patients? Plus, we discuss the rising trend of anabolic steroid use and its dangerous long-term effects on cardiovascular health. 

If you're a medical professional, someone who uses or has used these substances, or just curious about the impact of drugs on heart health, this episode is a must-listen.

Episode Highlights

[00:00] Introduction: Welcoming Dr. George Cocks and setting the stage for today’s discussion.

[02:20] How illicit drugs impact heart health: The direct effects on the cardiovascular system.

[02:52] Stimulants: Cocaine, meth, and LSD: Why these drugs can trigger heart attacks and arrhythmias.

[07:03] Depressants: Heroin, poppers, and GHB: Their impact on blood pressure and oxygen absorption.

[10:59] Hallucinogens and dissociatives: The unexpected cardiovascular risks of ketamine, marijuana, and more.

[14:46] Inhalants: Nitrous oxide and solvents: How these substances damage blood vessels and the heart.

[16:55] Real-world cases: Eye-opening patient stories and emergency room experiences.

[22:07] Breaking stigma in healthcare: How professionals can approach drug-related heart risks with empathy.

[27:51] Final thoughts: The importance of awareness and getting help.

Links & Resources: 

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance misuse, help is available. Visit the Change Grow Live website here for support and resources.

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to Beatwise The Podcast. Your support helps me reach more listeners and continue providing valuable content.

Don't forget to follow me on social media @sarah.theheartdoc for the latest updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more engaging discussions. Stay connected and be part of our growing community!

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Do all heart failure patients need defibrillators? Insights from the British Trial

In this episode of Beatwise The Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Andrew Flett, a consultant cardiologist in Southampton and the principal investigator of the British Trial, to explore a critical question in cardiology: Do all patients with heart failure due to non-ischemic cardiomyopathy need an implantable defibrillator (ICD)?

The British Trial, backed by a £1.8 million grant from the British Heart Foundation, aims to determine who truly benefits from ICDs - and who might not. We dive into the role of pacing in heart failure, the integration of medical therapies with pacemakers and defibrillators, and the potential risks and complexities involved. Dr. Flett shares the trial's origins, patient recruitment strategies, and how the findings could reshape future cardiac care.

If you’re a clinician, researcher, or patient interested in the latest advancements in heart failure treatment and defibrillator use, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!

Episode Highlights:

• [00:00] Introduction to heart failure and defibrillators
• [00:35] Meet Dr. Andrew Flett and the British Trial
• [02:04] Understanding pacing in heart failure
• [03:23] The role and risks of pacemakers
• [06:28] Introduction to defibrillators
• [08:55] The Danish Study and its impact on ICD recommendations
• [11:55] A closer look at the British Trial: Goals and significance
• [15:48] Patient participation and recruitment challenges
• [20:13] Final thoughts and the future of cardiac care

Links & Resources: 

• To learn more about The BRITISH Clinical Trial, watch this video 
• To find out if you fit the criteria to take part in this study, email [email protected] 

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to Beatwise The Podcast. Your support helps me reach more listeners and continue providing valuable content.

Don't forget to follow me on social media @sarah.theheartdoc for the latest updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more engaging discussions. Stay connected and be part of our growing community!

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Are heart failure patients being taken off life-saving medications too soon?

In this episode of Beatwise: The Podcast, I sit down with expert clinical pharmacist Rhys Williams to tackle a critical yet often overlooked issue in heart failure management— - hyperkalemia. 

Many patients are taken off life-saving RAS inhibitors due to high potassium levels, but is there a better way? 

Rhys and I dive into the underutilisation of potassium binders, which can help manage hyperkalemia without sacrificing essential heart failure medications.

We break down the risks of discontinuing RAS inhibitors, the importance of the 'four pillars' of heart failure therapy, and how both patients and clinicians can work together to optimize treatment. From bridging the gap between research and real-world practice to empowering patients to advocate for their own care, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] The hidden threat to heart failure patients

[01:03] Introduction to Beatwise: The Podcast

[01:37] Meet Rhys Williams: Heart failure specialist and clinical pharmacist

[02:11] Understanding the 'four pillars' of heart failure therapy

[04:21] Barriers to optimal heart failure treatment—why are patients missing out?

[06:48] Hyperkalemia explained: What every patient and clinician should know

[08:02] Strategies for managing high potassium levels without stopping RAS inhibitors

[11:43] How to empower patients and clinicians to make informed treatment decisions

[13:59] The role of potassium binders in heart failure care

[17:42] The importance of monitoring, compliance, and ongoing support

[28:14] Transforming heart failure management through better implementation of research

[32:05] Final thoughts and key takeaways

Links & Resources: 

To read more about the research paper we discussed during this episode, click here

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to Beatwise The Podcast. Your support helps me reach more listeners and continue providing valuable content.

Don't forget to follow me on social media @sarah.theheartdoc for the latest updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more engaging discussions. Stay connected and be part of our growing community!

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What really happens during a heart attack?

In this episode of Beatwise The Podcast, I am joined by Sophia Khattak, Clinical Research Fellow, to break down the symptoms, treatment, and prevention of heart attacks. 

We dive into:

• Early warning signs: Why symptoms can be different for men and women
• Emergency response: What happens in the hospital & why acting fast saves live
• Life-saving treatments: From diagnostic tests to stents and medications
• Prevention strategies: How lifestyle and medication adherence reduce future risk
• 
  

Did you know? 

Many young people ignore heart attack symptoms, delaying critical treatment. This episode sheds light on why recognizing symptoms early is essential for survival.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone at risk of heart disease, healthcare professionals, and those passionate about preventative heart health.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 - Introduction: The Unexpected Heart Attack

00:49 - Meet the Experts: Dr. Sarah & Sophia

01:40 - What is a Heart Attack? Breaking it down

02:24 - Emergency Response: What happens in the hospital

03:13 - Symptoms & When to Seek Help

06:52 - Key Diagnostic Tests

08:28 - Cath Lab Procedures & Life-Saving Interventions

17:45 - Post-Procedure Care & Medications

23:00 - Lifestyle Changes & Prevention Strategies

25:33 - Final Thoughts & Takeaways

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to Beatwise The Podcast. Your support helps me reach more listeners and continue providing valuable content.

Don't forget to follow me on social media @sarah.theheartdoc for the latest updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more engaging discussions. Stay connected and be part of our growing community!

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In this episode of Beatwise The Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Gabriella Captur, cardiologist and associate professor at University College London, to uncover the hidden dangers of noise pollution on heart health.

We often think of pollution in terms of air or water, but did you know that environmental noise - especially from aircraft and traffic - could be silently harming your heart? 🚨

Dr. Captur shares groundbreaking insights from her latest research on aircraft noise exposure and its link to high blood pressure, obesity, and heart disease. 

We dive into:

• How noise pollution triggers stress responses that impact cardiovascular health
• The biological mechanisms behind noise-induced heart disease
• The role of sleep disruption in long-term heart risks
• Policy changes and practical steps you can take to protect yourself
• 
  

This episode is a must-listen for anyone living in a high-noise environment, healthcare professionals, and those passionate about preventative heart health.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Welcome to Beatwise The Podcast

[00:39] Meet Dr. Gabriella Captur

[01:44] What is noise pollution?

[02:24] How noise impacts your health

[03:02] Global noise pollution statistics

[05:29] The link between noise and heart disease

[05:50] Biological pathways of noise impact

[09:26] Noise, sleep, and cardiovascular risk

[13:29] Study findings: What the research reveals

[23:18] Public health and policy recommendations

[27:56] Final thoughts and key takeaways

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to Beatwise The Podcast. Your support helps me reach more listeners and continue providing valuable content.

Don't forget to follow me on social media @sarah.theheartdoc for the latest updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more engaging discussions. Stay connected and be part of our growing community!

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In this episode of Beatwise The Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Stephanie Saucier, Director of the Women's Heart Wellness Program at Hartford Hospital, to debunk the long-standing myth that heart disease is a "man's disease."

Despite being the leading cause of death in women, cardiovascular disease remains widely misunderstood - especially when it comes to the unique risk factors that impact women differently. From hypertension during pregnancy to rheumatologic conditions and the effects of menopause, Dr. Saucier breaks down the critical aspects of women's heart health that are often overlooked.

We also dive into the cutting-edge advancements in heart disease prevention, including:

• The importance of assessing genetic risk factors like Lipoprotein(a)
• The latest innovative treatments, from PCSK9 inhibitors to GLP-1 receptor agonists
• Why women need to be proactive about their heart health at every stage of life

This episode is a must-listen for women, healthcare professionals, and anyone invested in heart disease prevention. It’s time to close the gender gap in cardiovascular care and empower women with the knowledge they need to take control of their heart health.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Welcome to Beatwise The Podcast

[00:46] Meet Dr. Stephanie Saucier

[01:12] The myth of heart disease being a "man's disease"

[02:52] Unique risk factors for women’s heart health

[04:54] Why prevention and early detection matter

[09:57] The role of genetics in heart disease

[12:45] New treatments changing the game

[18:26] Lipoprotein(a): The hidden risk factor you need to know

[22:38] GLP-1 medications – Beyond weight loss

[30:08] Final thoughts and how to take action

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to Beatwise The Podcast. Your support helps me reach more listeners and continue providing valuable content.

Don't forget to follow me on social media @sarah.theheartdoc for the latest updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more engaging discussions. Stay connected and be part of our growing community!

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In this episode of Beatwise The Podcast, I sit down with Associate Professor Sonya Burgess, an interventional cardiologist and Associate Professor, to discuss the critical underrepresentation of women in cardiovascular clinical trials.

We explore the shocking gender disparities in research and their impact on healthcare outcomes, ethics, and equity. From statins and cardiac devices to life-saving interventions, women remain significantly under-enrolled in studies - leading to potential gaps in treatment effectiveness and care.

Beyond the data, we discuss the systemic barriers preventing female inclusion and the urgent need for change. Dr. Burgess shares key insights on how to close the gender gap, including:

- Increasing female leadership in medical research

- Adjusting clinical trial protocols to better accommodate women

- Encouraging more inclusive and diverse studies for better patient outcomes

Whether you're a healthcare professional, researcher, or advocate for women’s health, this episode is packed with essential takeaways on why representation in medical research matters.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Welcome to Beatwise: The Podcast

[00:45] The underrepresentation of women in cardiovascular trials – why it matters

[01:14] In conversation with Dr. Sonya Burgess

[02:04] Eye-opening statistics on gender disparities in research

[03:36] The real impact on women's heart health

[08:20] Why more female professionals are needed in research

[24:04] Key solutions to improve trial diversity and inclusion

[31:56] Final thoughts and call to action

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to Beatwise The Podcast. Your support helps me reach more listeners and continue providing valuable content.

Don't forget to follow me on social media @sarah.theheartdoc for the latest updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more engaging discussions. Stay connected and be part of our growing community!

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In this episode of Beatwise The Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Will Watson, a clinical lecturer at the University of Cambridge with expertise in advanced heart failure and heart transplantation. 

We take a deep dive into what advanced heart failure really means - how to recognize the symptoms, when to seek specialist care, and what treatment options are available. From early warning signs to life-saving interventions like heart pumps and transplants, we cover the critical steps in managing this complex condition.

Beyond the medical aspects, we also discuss the emotional and physical toll of advanced heart failure, the importance of timely referrals, and how patients and their families can navigate the journey with confidence. 

Dr. Watson shares valuable clinical insights and practical advice, making this episode a must-listen for healthcare professionals, patients, and anyone looking to better understand heart failure management.

Episode Highlights

[00:00] Welcome to Beatwise: The Podcast

[01:25] What is advanced heart failure? Defining the condition and its impact

[03:12] Recognizing the symptoms - when to seek medical help

[05:24] The “I NEED HELP” mnemonic for identifying heart failure warning signs

[07:30] Why early referral to advanced heart failure services is crucial

[08:57] Key tests and diagnostic assessments for advanced heart failure

[17:41] Exploring treatment options: heart transplants and mechanical heart pumps

[23:00] Living with advanced heart failure - challenges and lifestyle adjustments

[32:40] Key takeaways and final thoughts

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to Beatwise The Podcast. Your support helps me reach more listeners and continue providing valuable content.

Don't forget to follow me on social media @sarah.theheartdoc for the latest updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more engaging discussions. Stay connected and be part of our growing community!

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Are you or someone you love navigating menopause? Have you ever wondered how it impacts your overall health, work performance, and wellbeing?

In this episode of Beatwise the Podcast, I’m joined by the esteemed gynecological oncology surgeon, Mr. Francis Gardner, to explore one of the most important yet often misunderstood topics in women’s health: menopause. 

Together, we break down the biological, emotional, and societal aspects of menopause, from its impact on women’s work performance to its connection with various health risks.

We discuss everything from the menstrual cycle and the transition into menopause to the powerful role of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and lifestyle changes in alleviating symptoms. 

Whether you’re navigating menopause yourself, supporting a loved one, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of this life stage, this episode offers valuable insights that will leave you feeling informed and empowered.

Episode Highlights

[00:00] Introduction to Beatwise the Podcast: Setting the stage for an honest discussion about women’s health.

[01:18] Understanding the Menstrual Cycle: A foundational look at how the menstrual cycle works and why it matters for menopause.

[04:03] Diving into Menopause: What is menopause, and how does it unfold in a woman’s life?

[06:50] Impact of Menopause on Professional Women: Exploring how menopause symptoms affect performance in the workplace and how to address this taboo topic.

[09:03] Symptoms and Health Risks of Menopause: A closer look at common symptoms and the associated risks to long-term health.

[17:22] Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Explained: Demystifying HRT options, benefits, and considerations for women.

[26:35] Non-Hormonal Treatments and Lifestyle Modifications: Practical ways to manage menopause symptoms without hormones.

[30:50] Considering Hysterectomy for Menopause:  When and why hysterectomy might be a treatment option.

[34:19] Conclusion and Final Thoughts:  Reflecting on the importance of normalizing conversations around menopause.

Links & Resources

• Connect with Mr. Francis Gardner here: 

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to Beatwise The Podcast. Your support helps me reach more listeners and continue providing valuable content.

Don't forget to follow me on social media @sarah.theheartdoc for the latest updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more engaging discussions. Stay connected and be part of our growing community!

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