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Purushotham Kotha, M.D., FACC
5555 Reservoir Drive Suite 309
San Diego, California 92120
Tel: (619)229 1995
Fax: (619)229 1109
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Health Education Index

Purushotham Kotha, M.D., FACC, Mary McAlister, Office Manager and the staff of Purushotham Kotha, M.D., FACC provide our patients with a Library with heart health information. The Library includes heart health handouts and links to medical organizations trusted by cardiologists, such as CardioSmart.

Cardiologist recommended topics include:

Angioplasty (Coronary angioplasty) is a medical procedure in which a balloon is used to open a blockage in a coronary (heart) artery narrowed by atherosclerosis. This procedure improves blood flow to the heart. Angioplasty is performed by a cardiologist in a "cath lab". Your cardiologist may recommend the placement of a stent during the procedure to keep the artery open. Learn more about angioplasty.

Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) occurs when the heart is no longer able to pump enough blood out to the rest of your body, especially during exercise. Coronary artery disease is the most common cause of heart failure, but it can also result from heart rhythm problems, heart valve disorders, or congenital heart disorders. The Library reviews different types of heart failure and treatment options that may be recommended by your cardiologist. Learn more about heart failure.

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) occurs when a fatty material called plaque builds up on the inner walls of the coronary arteries. This is called "atherosclerosis". The heart muscle cannot receive enough oxygen through the blood, resulting in angina (chest pain), irregular heartbeats, and heart attacks (myocardial infarction). The Library reviews the symptoms of CAD, diagnostic tests (ECG, Stress ECHO, catheterization) and various treatment options, including statins, stents and coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG). Learn more about coronary artery disease.

Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction) occurs when blood flow to a section of heart muscle becomes blocked. If the flow of blood isn't restored quickly, the section of heart muscle becomes damaged from lack of oxygen and begins to die. There are treatments for heart attacks that can save lives and prevent disabilities. These are most effective when started within 1 hour. If you think you or someone you're with is having a heart attack, call 9–1–1 right away. The Library reviews various ways to reduce your risk of developing a heart attack, such as lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels and to stop smoking. Learn more about heart attacks.

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) increases your risk for developing heart disease, kidney disease and having a stroke. The Library provides a review of high blood pressure and various treatment options, including dietary changes, exercise and blood pressure medications (diuretics, beta blockers, ACE inhibitors) that may be prescribed by your cardiologist. Learn more about blood pressure and hypertension.

High Cholesterol levels in your blood increase your chance of developing heart disease. The Library reviews blood tests that measure different types of cholesterol (HDL, LDL, VLDL) and cholesterol treatment options that help to lower cholesterol levels, including dietary changes, exercise and medications that may be prescribed by your cardiologist, such as statins. Learn more about high cholesterol.

Stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen to the brain is either blocked by a clot, or bursts. The nerve cells in that part of the brain no longer function. The resulting symptoms depend on the area of the brain affected. The Library reviews different types of stroke and their symptoms, as well as medications that help to prevent stroke. Learn more about stroke from the American Stroke Association.

Purushotham Kotha, M.D., FACC, Mary McAlister, Office Manager and the staff of Purushotham Kotha, M.D., FACC hope that the cardiologist recommended health information helps you to better understand your heart and your health.

This information is for general educational uses only. It may not apply to you and your specific medical needs. This information should not be used in place of a visit, call, consultation with or the advice of your physician or health care professional. Communicate promptly with your physician or other health care professional with any health-related questions or concerns.

Be sure to follow specific instructions given to you by your physician or health care professional.