Cardiovascular Care in St. Petersburg, FL

Internists provide a holistic view of your health. For cardiovascular issues, this means we don't just treat the heart condition itself, but also manage related factors like diabetes, kidney function, and lifestyle, ensuring comprehensive and integrated care for your total well-being.

Think of an internist as the 'big picture' doctor for your adult health. We are expertly trained to diagnose and manage a wide range of complex conditions, including many heart issues, and excel at understanding how they interact with your overall health (like diabetes or kidney disease). A cardiologist is a sub-specialist who focuses exclusively on the heart and may be involved for more complex procedures or specific conditions. We provide comprehensive primary and preventive cardiovascular care and will coordinate with a cardiologist if specialized intervention is needed.

While many insurance plans no longer require a referral to see a specialist, we recommend checking with your provider to be sure. Our staff is happy to assist you in understanding your insurance requirements and can help guide you through the process. Please call our office if you have any questions.

To make your first visit as smooth and productive as possible, please bring the following: a photo ID, your insurance card, a complete list of all medications you are currently taking (including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements), and any relevant medical records or test results you may have. It's also a great idea to jot down a list of your questions and concerns beforehand.

We provide personalized counseling on crucial lifestyle modifications. This includes creating a heart-healthy diet plan, developing a safe and effective exercise routine, stress management techniques, and smoking cessation support. Small, consistent changes can have a huge impact.

The frequency of follow-up visits is tailored to your specific condition and health goals. For stable, well-managed conditions, an annual check-up may be sufficient. If we are actively managing a new diagnosis or adjusting your medication, we may need to see you more frequently at first. We will always discuss and agree upon a follow-up schedule that works for you.

It is critical to know the signs of a potential heart emergency. Please call 911 immediately if you experience symptoms such as: chest pain, pressure, or tightness; shortness of breath; pain that radiates to your shoulder, arm, neck, or jaw; sudden dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting. Do not drive yourself to the hospital.