What is causing that chest pain?

A heart attack? Life threatening or just Life annoying?

Dr. Matt DeVane and Dr. Carolyn Lacey discuss the critical topic of chest pain, aiming to educate listeners on its causes, symptoms, and when to seek medical help.

They emphasize the importance of recognizing red flag symptoms that may indicate a heart attack and provide guidance on how to communicate effectively with healthcare providers about chest pain.

The discussion also covers both life-threatening and non-life-threatening causes of chest pain, reassuring listeners that most chest pain is not related to heart attacks but should still be evaluated by a medical professional.

Takeaways

Chest pain is a common reason for emergency visits.

Education and reassurance are key goals in discussing chest pain.

Recognizing red flag symptoms is crucial for timely intervention.

Patients should be prepared to answer specific questions about their chest pain.

Most chest pain is not life-threatening, but it should be evaluated.

Understanding the difference between life-threatening and non-life-threatening causes is important.

Emergency services should be called for severe symptoms.

Effective communication with healthcare providers can aid in diagnosis.

Chest pain can stem from various causes, including gastrointestinal issues and anxiety.

Seeking help for chest pain is always the right choice.

Let's have some fun with this one!

In this conversation, Dr. Matt DeVane and Dr. Carolyn Lacey discuss the evolving understanding of dietary recommendations, particularly focusing on eggs, aspirin, and HDL cholesterol.

They explore the historical context of these topics, the latest research findings, and how these changes impact patient care and health recommendations.

The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding the nuances in dietary choices and medical advice, highlighting that what was once considered beneficial may no longer hold true.

In this conversation, Dr. Matt DeVane and Dr. Carolyn Lacey discuss significant changes in cardiac health practices over the years. They explore the implications of HDL levels, the nature of heart murmurs, the evolving understanding of mitral valve prolapse, and dietary considerations regarding eggs and bacon. The discussion emphasizes the importance of comprehensive evaluations and the need for patients to consult their doctors about medications and health metrics.

Takeaways

Eggs have fluctuated in health perception over the years.

The company eggs keep in meals affects their health impact.

Aspirin is no longer recommended for primary prevention in average-risk individuals.

High HDL cholesterol is not always protective against heart disease.

Quality and function of HDL cholesterol are more important than quantity.

Dietary guidelines for eggs suggest 5-7 per week in moderation.

The risks of aspirin use must be weighed against its benefits.

Patients with a history of heart events should continue aspirin use.

Alcohol can raise HDL cholesterol but may not be beneficial.

Understanding dietary changes is crucial for patient education. Drinking alcohol is not a healthy way to raise HDL.

Heart murmurs are common and often benign.

Most heart murmurs are classified as innocent or functional.

Mitral valve prolapse diagnoses have become stricter with new technology.

Echocardiograms are essential for assessing heart murmurs.

HDL levels have a sweet spot; more is not always better.

Patients should consult their doctors about aspirin use.

Eggs can be part of a healthy diet if prepared properly.

Bacon remains an unhealthy choice in a heart-healthy diet.

Not all murmurs indicate a serious condition; many are harmless.

Sound bites

"Are eggs good or bad?"

"Heart murmurs are just a sound."

"More HDL does not equal better."

Keywords

#eggs

#aspirin

#HDL cholesterol

#heart health

#dietary guidelines

#cardiovascular risk

#nutrition, health recommendations

#medical advice

#lifestyle changes

#HDL

#heart murmur

#mitral valve prolapse

#cholesterol

#echocardiogram

#cardiac health,

#cardiovascular disease

#heart health

In this episode, Dr. Matt DeVane and Dr. Carolyn Lacey discuss the critical aspects of heart attack recovery, emphasizing the importance of understanding the journey from the hospital to long-term health.

They begin by addressing the immediate concerns patients face after a heart attack, including the confusion and fear that often accompany such a life-altering event.

The cardiologists highlight the advancements in heart attack treatment, noting that the mortality rate has significantly decreased, with over 90% of patients recovering well. They stress the importance of viewing a heart attack as a new beginning rather than an end, focusing on the roadmap to recovery that includes lifestyle changes, medication adherence, and emotional support.

The conversation delves into the specifics of what patients can expect after a heart attack, including the tests and medications they will encounter during their hospital stay. Dr. Lacey explains the significance of cardiac rehabilitation, which begins in the hospital and continues post-discharge, helping patients regain their strength and confidence. The doctors also touch on the psychological impact of a heart attack, encouraging patients to seek support and understand that recovery is a gradual process. They conclude with actionable steps for patients to take as they transition back to their daily lives, emphasizing the importance of community support and lifestyle modifications for long-term heart health.

Takeaways

'Think of a heart attack as a beginning, not an end.'

'The mortality risk from heart attacks is very small now.'

'It's normal to feel short of breath after a heart attack.'

'You will be on multiple medications after a heart attack.'

'Cardiac rehab is crucial for long-term recovery.'

Sound bites

"Think of a heart attack as a beginning, not an end."

"This is not a fleeting type of situation."

"How can I think about moving forward with this as a new beginning?"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Heart Attack Recovery

01:08 Understanding the Immediate Aftermath

07:02 Tests and Medications Post-Heart Attack

12:55 The Psychological Impact of Heart Attacks

15:33 The Importance of Cardiac Rehabilitation

17:45 Lifestyle Changes for Long-Term Health

22:22 Action Items for Recovery

Episode #32: A Short

In this engaging 3 Minute conversation, Dr. Matt DeVane and Dr. Carolyn Lacey discuss groundbreaking research published in The Lancet, which reveals that just five minutes of moderate-intensity exercise daily can significantly reduce the risk of death by up to 10%.

They explore how simple activities like walking around the house or taking a brief stroll can lead to substantial health benefits, challenging the notion that extensive workouts are necessary for longevity. The discussion emphasizes the importance of incorporating small increments of movement into daily routines, especially for those with sedentary lifestyles, and highlights the surprising findings that even minimal activity can yield positive outcomes for overall health.

They conclude by urging listeners to take immediate action by stepping outside for a short walk, reinforcing the message that every little bit of movement counts towards a healthier life.

Takeaways

You can prevent 10% of all deaths with just five minutes a day.

Small increments of movement can lead to significant health benefits.

Even minimal activity, like standing instead of sitting, can reduce the risk of dying.

Sound bites

"You could prevent 10% of all deaths with just five minutes a day."

"Save your money. Put your wallet away, walk out your front door."

"Everybody has five minutes. Everybody can go for five."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Five-Minute Exercise Revelation

01:32 The Impact of Small Increments of Movement

03:37 Overcoming Sedentary Habits for Better Health

04:14 Conclusion: Taking Action for a Healthier Life

Episode #31

In this episode, Dr. Matt DeVane and Dr. Carolyn Lacey discuss atrial fibrillation (AFib), a common heart rhythm disorder. They provide insights into understanding AFib, the implications of smartwatch alerts, and the importance of lifestyle modifications such as weight loss, alcohol reduction, and stress management. The conversation also covers the role of medications, testing, and potential procedures for managing AFib, emphasizing that many people live well with this condition when properly managed.

Takeaways

Atrial fibrillation can be overwhelming for newly diagnosed patients.

Smartwatches serve as screening tools for AFib alerts.

Understanding AFib involves recognizing its chaotic heart rhythm.

Weight loss and lifestyle changes can significantly impact AFib management.

Alcohol reduction is crucial for those with AFib.

Exercise is beneficial for heart health and managing AFib.

Stress management techniques can help improve AFib symptoms.

Medications are often necessary to manage AFib effectively.

Regular monitoring and testing are essential for AFib patients.

Many individuals live normal lives with atrial fibrillation.

Sound bites

"Smartwatches are like a screening tool."

"Less alcohol is better, none is best."

"Exercise is essential for managing AFib."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Atrial Fibrillation

02:38 Understanding Smartwatch Alerts

05:28 What is Atrial Fibrillation?

07:56 Risks Associated with Atrial Fibrillation

09:19 Lifestyle Modifications for Managing AFib

13:45 The Role of Stress and Sleep Apnea

17:18 Medications for Atrial Fibrillation

20:54 Testing and Monitoring AFib

26:56 Managing Asymptomatic Atrial Fibrillation

28:33 Procedures for Atrial Fibrillation

30:16 Reassurance and Conclusion

Ep #30

In this episode, Dr. Matt DeVane and Dr. Carolyn Lacey discuss the significance of setting health-focused New Year's resolutions, emphasizing the need for strategic planning rather than relying solely on willpower. They introduce the Smart Heart concept and habit stacking as effective tools for achieving heart health goals. The episode outlines five key resolutions for 2026, including building a walking routine, upgrading to a Mediterranean diet, mastering home blood pressure monitoring, scheduling a cardiac checkup, and implementing habit stacking for lasting change. The conversation highlights the importance of data collection and regular health checkups in preventing heart disease.

Takeaways

Resolutions should be based on strategy, not willpower.

80% of New Year's resolutions fail by February.

Specific and measurable goals increase success rates.

Building a walking routine can significantly improve health.

Upgrading meals to Mediterranean style can enhance nutrition.

Home blood pressure monitoring is essential for health management.

Regular checkups can prevent serious health issues.

Habit stacking can help integrate new healthy habits into daily life.

Small, incremental changes lead to significant health improvements.

Heart disease is largely preventable with proactive measures.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to New Year's Resolutions

01:55 The Importance of Strategy in Resolutions

04:42 Understanding SMART Goals for Health

07:39 Top Five Heart Health Resolutions for 2026

10:05 Building a Walking Routine

13:07 Upgrading to Mediterranean Diet

18:54 Practical Tips for Healthy Eating

19:10 Making Healthy Choices Easy

20:16 Mastering Home Blood Pressure Monitoring

26:17 The Importance of Regular Checkups

29:29 Habit Stacking for Healthier Living

Episode #29: In this episode of Living Heart Smart, Dr. Matt DeVane and Dr. Carolyn Lacey discuss the implications of an abnormal coronary artery calcium test. They provide a roadmap for patients on what to do next, including understanding the meaning of calcium scores, the importance of lifestyle changes, and the role of medications in managing heart health. The conversation emphasizes the need for proactive measures and the motivation that can come from knowing one's health status.

Takeaways

An abnormal coronary artery calcium test can be alarming but provides a roadmap for action.

Understanding what the calcium score means is crucial for patients.

Lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise are essential for heart health.

Medications may be necessary to manage cholesterol and reduce cardiovascular risk.

Normal is defined as a calcium score of zero, regardless of age.

Patients often ask if their arteries can be 'fixed'—the answer is more complex.

Aspirin may be recommended based on calcium scores and individual risk factors.

Monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol levels is vital for heart health.

Therapeutic lifestyle changes can significantly impact heart health outcomes.

Using test results as motivation can lead to positive health changes.

Sound Bites

"What next, now what?"

"Let it be motivating."

"Take one small step."

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Coronary Artery Calcium Tests

01:21 Interpreting Calcium Scores

05:20 The Fix: Can We Just Fix It?

10:29 Taking Action: Lifestyle Changes and Medications

12:14 Understanding Risk Factors for Heart Health

12:40 Monitoring Key Health Parameters

13:00 The Importance of LDL Cholesterol

14:08 The Role of Aspirin in Heart Health

15:36 Age and Calcium Scores: What You Need to Know

16:57 Empowering Patients with Information

17:35 Taking Action: Small Steps for Big Changes

Episode #28

In this episode of Living Heart Smart, Dr. Matt DeVane and Dr. Carolyn Lacey discuss the new cholesterol-lowering medication Inclisiran, its mechanism of action, and how it compares to traditional statins. They explore who might benefit from this medication, practical aspects of its administration, potential side effects, and the challenges of insurance coverage. The conversation emphasizes the importance of lowering LDL cholesterol for heart health and the evolving landscape of cardiovascular medications.

Takeaways

Inclisiran is a new medication that can replace daily statins.

It works by blocking the PCSK9 protein, enhancing LDL receptor function.

Patients with statin intolerance may benefit from Enclisarin.

The medication is administered twice a year, improving compliance.

Enclisarin can be used in conjunction with statins for better LDL control.

It has shown significant LDL reduction in clinical trials.

Side effects are minimal, primarily limited to injection site reactions.

Insurance coverage can be a barrier to accessing Enclisarin.

Lowering LDL cholesterol is crucial for reducing cardiovascular risk.

The future of cholesterol management may include more innovative therapies.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Inclisiran and Statins

02:15 Understanding Inclisiran Mechanism of Action

04:54 Comparing Inclisiran and Statins

07:33 Practical Applications and Patient Selection

10:18 Addressing Lipoprotein(a) and Inclisiran

12:53 Side Effects and Compliance Issues

15:28 Insurance and Cost Considerations

18:18 Conclusion and Future Directions

Episode # 27:

In this episode, Dr. Matt DeVane and Dr. Carolyn Lacey discuss the revolutionary impact of GLP medications on heart health, diabetes management, and weight loss. They explore the benefits of these medications, the importance of teamwork in managing side effects, and the necessity of lifestyle changes for successful outcomes. The conversation emphasizes the need for regular follow-ups and communication between patients and healthcare providers to ensure effective management of these medications.

Takeaways

The GLP revolution has significantly changed diabetes and heart health management.

GLP medications offer benefits beyond diabetes, including cardiovascular health.

Teamwork between patients and doctors is crucial for successful medication management.

Understanding and managing side effects is essential for patient compliance.

Hydration plays a key role in managing side effects of GLP medications.

Lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, are necessary for optimal results.

Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers are important for medication adjustments.

Patients may need to reduce other medications as they lose weight and improve health.

Maintaining muscle mass is critical while using GLP medications.

The future of GLP medications looks promising with ongoing research and development.

Chapters

00:00 The GLP Revolution: A New Era in Medicine

02:37 Understanding GLP Medications and Their Benefits

05:27 Managing Side Effects of GLP Medications

08:16 The Importance of Teamwork in Treatment

10:52 Adjusting Medications: A Collaborative Approach

15:07 Managing Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar

16:21 The Importance of Lifestyle Changes

17:43 Prioritizing Protein Intake

19:27 Exercise: A Key Component

22:58 The Role of Follow-Up and Teamwork

25:17 Future of Obesity Management and Medications

Episode #26

In this episode, Dr. Matt DeVane and Dr. Carolyn Lacey discuss the use of statins in heart health, exploring their history, effectiveness, and the decision-making process for patients considering them. They address common concerns about side effects, the importance of evaluating individual risk factors, and the balance of risks versus benefits. Personal experiences with statins are shared, along with insights into alternative medications for those who cannot tolerate statins.

Takeaways

Statins are often prescribed to prevent heart disease.

The history of statins dates back over a century.

Patients should evaluate their risk factors before taking statins.

Lets talk side effects!

Alternatives to statins are available for those who need them.

Statins have been shown to prevent millions of heart attacks.

Understanding the science behind statins is crucial for patients.

Sound bites

"Prove it to me!"

"Should I be taking a statin?"

"The trade-off seems worth it."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Statins and Personal Experiences

02:41 History and Development of Statins

05:29 Who Should Take Statins?

08:19 Evaluating Risk Factors for Statin Use

11:01 Understanding Side Effects of Statins

14:00 Addressing Common Concerns About Statins

17:54 The Balance of Risks and Benefits

21:34 Personal Decisions and Experiences with Statins

25:30 Alternatives to Statins and Conclusion

Medical Disclaimer

The Living Heart Smart podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions.