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Heart Health Blog

  • Now is the perfect time to take steps for better heart health

    When it comes to heart-healthy nutrition, the main nutrients to look at are fat, sodium, cholesterol, and fiber. Small changes can make a big difference in your heart health!

  • Aortic aneurysms: Am I at risk and what can I do to watch out for it?

    Many people were shocked when soccer journalist Grant Wahl suddenly collapsed and died in December 2022 while covering the World Cup in Qatar. It was revealed a few days later that Wahl, 49, had died from an aortic aneurysm.
     

  • What Is a Vascular Surgeon and Why Might You Need One?

    Despite the name, vascular surgeons do more than surgery. They advise patients on various ways to treat and manage vascular issues, whether that be by medication or lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise. The goal is always to match the patient with the best treatment option.

  • LAAO Lets Many Patients Leave Blood Thinners Behind

    Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure used to prevent blood clots for patients with atrial fibrillation who are unable to take long term anticoagulation. If you've been told that you have atrial fibrillation but have trouble with blood thinners, you may be a candidate for LAAO.

  • Congestive Heart Failure (CHF): Managing Your Diagnosis

    According to the CDC, about 6.2 million adults in the United States have heart failure. The term “heart failure” sounds like the heart is no longer working at all, but it actually means the heart simply isn’t pumping as well as it should. We can help manage your diagnosis. 
     

  • Mindful Eating During the Holidays

    From the Deaconess Wellness Team 

    While we are celebrating with family or prepping for a gathering during the holidays, it is very important to keep mindful of our eating patterns. We often eat additional calories without realizing it. Find tips on healthy eating here.

  • Women & Heart Q&A

    Dr. Prasanna Yelamanchili, cardiologist, Deaconess Heart Group.

    Dr. Yelamanchili has been practicing in Evansville for more than 10 years, and in that time she has cared for hundreds of women with heart disease. She recently sat down for a Q&A about some important women’s heart health questions.

  • Hypertension: Understanding High Blood Pressure

    Christi Pagett, MD, Family Medicine, Deaconess Clinic - West

    Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is also known as the “silent killer.”  The American Heart Association reports that nearly 50% of American adults have hypertension. Learn symptoms and treatment options here.

  • Learn Your Heart Risk with Heart Scan

    Jonathan Balagna, MD, FACC, Deaconess Heart Group

    If you’re concerned about your risk for heart disease, a heart scan may be helpful for you. Deaconess is excited to now offer this new screening option to the community for only $49. As a physician, I know that this test has the potential to prevent heart attacks and save lives.

  • 8 Reasons to Shop at Your Local Farmers Market

    Rebekah Basham, PA, Deaconess Clinic - Memorial

    It's summer, and local farmers markets have “sprouted up,” giving us new opportunities to buy fresh produce.
     

  • Getting More Fruit Into Your Diet

    Debbie Pfeiffer, Clinical Dietitian, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    One of the best parts of summer are the seasonal, delicious fruits. Early summer gives us sweet strawberries; later we get to enjoy plump grapes, vibrant berries, juicy peaches...the list goes on and on! 

  • Understanding CHF (Congestive Heart Failure)

    Brian Wellington, DO, Deaconess Clinic Henderson

    Congestive heart failure, or CHF, is a very common, serious chronic condition and it’s a factor in 1 in 9 deaths. It's important to understand how your heart should work properly, and what happens when it doesn’t. 
     

  • What Is Palliative Care?

    Perhaps you’ve heard the term “palliative care” but weren’t sure what it meant. Palliative care is specialized medical care for people with chronic illnesses, focusing on providing patients with relief from the symptoms, pain and stress of a chronic illness regardless of the diagnosis. The overall goal is to improve quality of life for both the patient and the family.
     

  • Early Symptoms of Heart Disease

    Dominic C. Cefali, MD, PhD, FACS Cardiothoracic Surgeon, The Deaconess Heart Group

    In my nearly 20 years of practice, I've had thousands of patients tell me that they can look back and recognize symptoms they were having prior to their heart attack--certain "warning signs" in the days/weeks/months leading up to the heart attack.

  • Chronic Kidney Disease

    Narothama Reddy, MD, Deaconess Clinic Nephrology

    Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is very common—affecting about 15 percent of the US adult population. It’s closely related to diabetes and high blood pressure, and can cause serious complications.

  • Keep Moving for Better Health

    Terry Gehlhausen, DO, Deaconess Clinic Oakland City

    Growing attention to the health benefits of physical fitness has millions of Americans thinking about how they can get more exercise. Walking, hiking and biking are a few easy options to get people started on a daily exercise routine. 
     

  • Health Screenings Men Need - When & Why

    Deaconess Clinic Downtown

    Health screenings help doctors and other providers detect conditions at earlier, more treatable stages.

  • What’s Your Emergency Food Plan?

    It’s always good practice to plan ahead for emergencies, but that planning becomes even more important when you have specific dietary needs and restrictions.

  • How a Multi-Cooker Can Improve Your Diet

    Debbie Pfeiffer, MS, RD, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    If social media and sales figures are correct, many of you bought or received a multi-cooker over the holidays. While the advertising for using these appliances focuses on saving time, I’d like to tell you how they can help with healthier eating and even weight loss.
     

  • Enjoy the Big Game without Blowing Your Diet

    Carolyn Burns, RD, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    Football-watching parties are not known for light and healthy food options, as most of these gatherings feature salt, beer and grease as the main food groups. So how do you celebrate the Big Game without completely blowing your diet?   
     

  • Understanding Sudden Cardiac Arrest

    Chandrashekar Kumbar, MD, FACC, Deaconess Heart Group

    In my 17 years here at Deaconess Heart Group, I’ve cared for many patients who have experienced sudden cardiac arrest; I’ve also heard many stories of those who did not survive sudden cardiac arrest. 

  • New Heart Health Information

    Deaconess Clinic Internal Medicine

    The American Heart Association released study information and new guidelines at their annual conference.

  • 10 Tips for Healthy Holiday Eating

    Deborah Pfeiffer, MS, RD, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions
     
    The holiday season is filled with traditions — and amazing food! How are you supposed to choose nutrition over homemade desserts and family favorites? The simple answer is planning. (Recipes are also included.)
     

  • Fabulous Fall Flavors

    Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    There’s more to fall flavors than just pumpkin spice! This season brings tasty vegetables that are colorful, delicious and loaded with vitamins and minerals. Examples of traditional autumn produce -- and recipes! -- are below.

  • Are E-Cigarettes/Vaping “Better” Than Regular Cigarettes?

    David Ryon, MD, Deaconess Pulmonary and Critical Care
     
    As a doctor specializing in lung diseases, I have seen the negative outcomes resulting from tobacco use. Many patients ask me if “vaping” is better than cigarettes. I tell them the answer is complex.
     

  • Tasty Tips for a Healthier Thanksgiving

    Deborah Pfeiffer, MS, RD, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    Thanksgiving is a time to count our blessings and visit with family and friends. It’s also a time to enjoy holiday foods. With just a little bit of effort, you can eat your favorite dishes and still achieve your goals for better health. Don’t believe me? Keep reading. (I share some great recipes too!)

  • More Fiber = More Gas?

    Carolyn Burns, RD, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    Eating a diet filled with fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains is great for our health, but can sometimes lead to bloating, gas, and other abdominal discomfort. Learn tips on making healthy food choices while still being able to go out in public.
     

  • Mediterranean Diet for Weight Loss

    Carolyn Burns, RD, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions
     
    Information about healthy eating seems to be everywhere. We found that the majority of patients have success using the Mediterranean diet.

  • Spread Fun, Not Flu

    Pediatrics & Internal Medicine, Deaconess Clinic Morganfield


    I don’t know about you, but I don’t have time to be sick with the flu.  A week or more of serious body aches, coughing, fever, etc. is not how I want to spend my time. Be prepared by getting your flu vaccine before flu season starts! 

  • Micra, the World's Smallest Pacemaker

    Nathan Reed, MD, Cardiovascular Electrophysiologist, Deaconess Heart Group
     
    Micra is the world’s smallest pacemaker, leaving no bump under the skin, no chest scar, and requiring no lead. I would describe the device as a quantum leap in pacemaker technology, and a large improvement for patients who need single-chamber pacing.
     

  • Quick & Healthy Breakfast Ideas for Your Family

    Carolyn Burns, RD, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    Now that children are back in school, morning time can be very hectic. Amid the busy routine of getting everyone up, ready, and off to school, it is easy to skip breakfast. But as you’ve probably heard, breakfast is the most important meal of the day.   
     

  • Importance of a Health Care Representative

    Dr. Anna Dauer, Medical Director, Deaconess Palliative Care

    Here at Deaconess, people make decisions on others’ behalf every single day. Sometimes the situation is sudden, such as after a car crash. In other situations, a family member has been in a gradual decline. But in all circumstances it can be a difficult time, so having the right information, with the desired decision-makers, is crucial.

  • Schedule Online Now – Making Health Care More Convenient

    Amanda Bohleber, MD, Deaconess Clinic Medical Director
     
    It’s never been easier to schedule an appointment with a Deaconess doctor or service. Online scheduling is convenient, helps busy families and people on the go, and improves access to the care you need--when and where you need it.
     

  • Sizzle Without Guilt: 7 Tips for Healthy Summer Cookouts

    Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    Summer means picnics, barbeques, and other outdoor social events. It also means lots of yummy foods, many of which are not so healthy. Here are some tips--and recipes!--to help you enjoy a guilt-free summer without compromising fun or your weight loss goals. 
     

  • 8 Healthy & Fit Summer Vacation Tips

    Debbie Pfeiffer, MS, Registered Dietitian

    Vacation is a great time to reduce stress and rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit. It’s not, however, the time to turn back on healthy lifestyle changes you worked on through the winter and spring months. Here are a few ways to maintain healthy habits when you’re out of town and out of your normal routine.
     

  • Easter Favorites: Healthy Variations on Classic Lunch & Brunch Recipes

    Carolyn Burns, RD, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    Special Easter gatherings bring to mind favorite foods. Here are some Easter favorites, but these recipes offer a few less calories without compromising on taste.

     

  • Women and Heart Disease: Pregnancy Induced Heart Failure

    Courtney Hoppenjans, Heart Patient, Deaconess Health System

    Courtney Hoppenjans, Heart patient, shares her 2014 story about pregnancy induced heart failure. Learn about why women should listen to their bodies and how the amazing teams from The Heart Hospital and The Women's Hospital helped save Courtney and her baby's life.
     

  • Keeping Resolutions in the New Year

    Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    It’s that time of year again! New Year’s Day is around the corner and many of us are starting to think about making a resolution. But how do you stick to your resolution and not give up before Valentine’s Day? We’ve listed some tips below on how to make and keep momentum toward your New Year’s resolution throughout the year.

  • Healthy Holiday Tips from The Heart Hospital

    The Deaconess Heart Group

    Learn about these healthy tips and why they’re important to you. 

  • Know Where to Go For Care

    Amanda Bohleber, MD, Medical Director, Deaconess Clinic

    A doctor—and mom—shares her tips for choosing the right care at the right time at the right place.

  • Making the Most of Your Doctor’s Appointment

    Ankita Bahuva, MD, Internal Medicine, Deaconess Clinic Downtown

    Your doctors’ appointments are an important and valuable time to connect with your doctor, share your perspective and information, and learn from your doctor’s expertise.  The best appointments happen when patients are very prepared.
     

  • Fighting Chronic Fatigue

    Ankita Bahuva, MD, Internal Medicine, Deaconess Clinic Downtown

    Chronic fatigue is a condition that causes someone to be extremely tired—to the point that they can’t function in their daily life.  It is also often misunderstood.
     

  • Mediterranean Diet—A Healthy Diet for Life

    Deaconess Clinic Downtown

    One third of the adults in the United States are obese--that is, they have a BMI (body mass index weight/height) greater than 30. It seems these days everyone is trying to diet to lose weight or simply be healthier.
     

  • Atrial Fibrillation - causes, symptoms and treatment

    Chandra Kumbar, MD, Deaconess Heart Group, Electrophysiologist

    I have been practicing as a physician in Evansville for over a decade and greatly enjoy my work in the cardiology field, my colleagues, and patients at The Heart Hospital at Deaconess Gateway. In my role as a heart rhythm specialist with Deaconess Heart Group, I treat patients who have irregular heart rhythms. The most common heart rhythm issue, and the one I would like to talk about, is Atrial Fibrillation, or “AFib.”


     

  • Alcohol – the Good, the Bad and the Ugly

    Lynn Schnautz, MSN, RN, CCRN, CCNS, NP-C, Nurse Practitioner/Clinical Nurse Specialist, The Heart Hospital
    Deaconess Cross Pointe


    There can be a lot of confusion about alcohol and its effects on your health.  How much alcohol—and what kind—is good for you?

  • 10 Choices to add years to your life

    Terry Gehlhausen, DO, Deaconess Clinic Family Medicine, Oakland City

    People who follow a few simple steps to improve their health have less cancer and heart disease compared to other Americans, and their overall death rate is significantly reduced compared to other people under age 65. Here are ten choices you can make that will lead to a longer and healthier life:
     

  • Have a Healthy Heart

    Terry Gehlhausen, DO, Deaconess Clinic Family Medicine, Oakland City

    Heart Disease remains the leading cause of  death in this country, but here are some ideas to help reduce your risk of heart disease and celebrate more Valentine’s Days together with your loved ones. 

     

  • Clogged Arteries

    H. Simon Tran, MD, RVT - Vascular Surgeon with The Deaconess Heart Group

    Clogged arteries are the result of plaque buildup on the smooth, inner walls of the vessel. Plaque in the arteries is made up of cholesterol, calcium and blood clots. Buildup takes place over time, but due to various factors, including diet, lifestyle habits, high blood pressure, tobacco smoking and even genetics, it can happen at a faster rate and a younger age.

  • Atrial Fibrillation - causes, symptoms and treatment

    Chandra Kumbar, MD, Deaconess Heart Group, Electrophysiologist​

    Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) is a serious heart condition where an irregular, often rapid, heart rate commonly causes poor blood flow in the heart, which can significantly increase the risk of stroke and heart problems.  
     

  • 8 Steps to Living Heart Healthy

    Terry Gehlhausen, DO, Deaconess Clinic Family Medicine

    Heart Disease is the leading cause of death in this country.  Here are some suggestions to reduce your risk of heart disease so you can celebrate more Valentine’s Days together with your loved ones.
     

  • What Women Need to Know About Their Heart Health

    Dr. Prasanna Yelamanchili, Cardiologist, The Deaconess Heart Group​

    Women sometimes think that they aren’t at risk for heart disease, but that simply isn’t true. More women die of heart disease and stroke than all cancers combined. One in four women die of heart-related problems compared to 1 in 30 by breast cancer.  Also, 2/3 of women who die of a heart attack had no prior symptoms of heart disease, and women die twice as often after a heart attack as compared to men.


     

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