Coronary artery disease is still one of the top causes of death worldwide. Thankfully, advances in medical treatments, like coronary stents, have made a huge difference in how we treat heart problems. At Cross County Cardiology, we're proud to be at the forefront of providing this life-saving procedure.

What Are Coronary Stents?

Think of a coronary stent like a tiny spring that helps keep your arteries open. This simple, non-invasive procedure has revolutionized how cardiologists treat blocked arteries. In fact, the process has become so refined that it’s now often done through the wrist, allowing patients to go home the same day. The quick and significant improvement in heart function is what makes stents such an effective solution for chronic heart conditions.

Addressing the Root Causes

While getting a coronary stent can be life-saving, it’s only part of the solution. The underlying causes—such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking—still need to be managed. If these issues aren't addressed, they can continue to damage your arteries.

Life After a Stent

After the procedure, it’s crucial to stay on your prescribed medications, including cholesterol-lowering drugs, aspirin, and an additional anti-platelet agent like Plavix or Berlinta. Just like patients who receive a kidney transplant need to take anti-rejection drugs, people with stents need these medications to prevent the body from rejecting the stent. These drugs help keep platelets from sticking to the stent, which could cause new blockages.

A study by the National Institutes of Health found that the risk of stent thrombosis (a type of blood clot) was just 1.3% in 9,434 patients with new-generation drug-eluting stents. This shows how safe the procedure can be when done correctly. However, it’s very important not to stop taking your medication for at least a year after the procedure unless you have a major surgery or another serious reason to do so.

The Bigger Picture

Coronary stents are indeed saving lives and improving the quality of life for many people. But the key to long-term success lies in following your medication regimen and making healthy lifestyle changes. At Cross County Cardiology, we’re committed to providing care that goes beyond the procedure, helping our patients lead healthier, longer lives.

For more detailed information, you can visit the National Institutes of Health article on stent thrombosis here

Introduction from the Cross County Cardiology Education Team:

As temperatures rise, it’s crucial to understand how certain medications can impact your ability to stay cool and hydrated. At Cross County Cardiology, we are dedicated to ensuring our patients have the information they need to stay safe during extreme weather conditions. Certain medications, including those for mental health, high blood pressure, and allergies, can increase your susceptibility to heat-related illnesses. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself during heat waves.

Key Points:

Certain medications, including some for mental health, high blood pressure, and allergies, can make it harder for your body to stay cool and hydrated during heat waves. Here's what you need to know to stay safe.

Medications That Raise Risk:

• Diuretics (Water Pills): Used for heart failure, kidney disease, or high blood pressure, they increase urination, which can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, making it harder to regulate body temperature.

• ACE Inhibitors: Commonly prescribed for high blood pressure, these can increase the risk of fainting and suppress thirst, making it hard to know when to drink more water.

• Beta Blockers: Another type of blood pressure medication that can cause fainting and make it difficult to sweat, hindering the body's cooling process.

• Calcium Channel Blockers: These can cause electrolyte imbalances, affecting body temperature regulation.

• Antipsychotics: Medications like haloperidol, olanzapine, and risperidone can impair your ability to sweat, increasing body temperature.

• Antidepressants: Some increase sweating and suppress thirst, leading to dehydration during heat waves.

• Thyroid Hormone Replacement: These can raise body temperature and cause excessive sweating.

• Stimulants for ADHD: Drugs like amphetamines can raise body temperature by affecting the central nervous system.

• Over-the-Counter Antihistamines: Medications like Benadryl and Unisom can reduce sweating and impair temperature regulation.

How to Stay Safe in Extreme Heat:

• Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illness:

  • Heat Exhaustion: Heavy sweating, cold or clammy skin, headaches, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps, dizziness, or fatigue.
  • Heat Stroke: Body temperature of 103°F or higher, red/hot/dry or damp skin, confusion, headache, or unconsciousness. Seek emergency medical care immediately if you notice these symptoms.

• Stay Indoors: Try to stay in air-conditioned places. If you don't have air conditioning, go to a cooling center like a library.

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and replenish electrolytes with sports drinks or fruits and leafy greens. If outside, drink 8 ounces of water every 15 to 20 minutes.

• Dress Appropriately: Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing that reflects the sun. Avoid being outside during the hottest parts of the day; early morning or late evening is best.

Opinion from the Cross County Cardiology Education Team:

It's essential to be aware of how your medications can affect your body's ability to cope with extreme heat. If you're on any of these medications, take extra precautions to stay cool and hydrated. Understanding the risks and taking proactive steps can help prevent heat-related illnesses. Always consult with your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your specific situation.

Stay informed and stay safe! For more detailed information,

check out the original New York Times article: Click here