by NJ Cardiovascular Institute | Nov 2, 2025 | Blog, Heart Health
The holiday season is a time of joy, connection, and celebration. And with those celebrations often come opportunities to indulge. Large meals, decadent desserts, and alcohol can put strain on your body and your heart, but it doesn’t mean you have to skip the festivities completely.
Whether you have a cardiovascular condition or simply want to keep your heart in good shape, it’s entirely possible to enjoy holiday foods without derailing your health goals. Small adjustments and mindful choices can help you celebrate and take care of your heart.
Kunal Patel, MD, and our team at NJ Cardiovascular Institute specialize in cardiovascular care. Our Heart Smart Program is designed to help you navigate the real world and protect your heart health — and here’s how to get started this holiday season.
How the holidays pose a risk for heart health
The holiday season is short, and it’s easy to assume that overindulging at holiday meals doesn’t really affect your health in the long term. But the truth is that these changes can cause spikes in blood pressure, fluid retention, or undue stress on the cardiovascular system, especially if you’re managing a condition like hypertension, high cholesterol, or heart disease.
During holiday gatherings, we often face large portions, rich foods high in saturated fats, salt, and added sugars, and festivities that disrupt our routines. Add in late nights, alcohol, and reduced physical activity, and it can be enough to have an impact on your heart health and your overall well-being that lingers into the new year.
Tips for enjoying the holidays without sacrificing heart health
Maintaining your best possible heart health doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the festivities. A few simple tips from our team can help you navigate the season in a heart-healthy way.
1. Bring a heart-friendly dish
If you're attending a potluck, take the opportunity to bring a dish you know fits your heart goals. A colorful salad with extra vegetables, legumes, or a whole-grain casserole can offer balance when the table is loaded with richer options. And this way, you know there's at least one option that supports your diet.
2. Start with lighter fare and use smaller plates
Before diving into heavy dishes, fill a portion of your plate with vegetables or a broth-based soup to help you feel satisfied faster. Opting for smaller plates also helps control portions psychologically without leaving you feeling deprived. Starting light gives your system time to adjust and may reduce the impulse to overindulge later on.
3. Make smart swaps
You don’t need to avoid your holiday favorites entirely. Instead, choose modifications that reduce their impact on your heart. Consider leaner meats (turkey breast or fish instead of dark meat), trimming visible fat, using herbs and citrus rather than heavy sauces, and substituting whole grains for refined. You can also limit salt by seasoning thoughtfully with fresh herbs or low-sodium options.
4. Savor your food and pause between bites
Mindful eating can help you enjoy your meals without overdoing them. Eat slowly, chew fully, and pause between bites. If you’re engaging in conversation, avoid eating when you’re not paying attention. Sometimes, a short walk after the meal or a glass of water can help signal fullness to your brain.
5. Stay active and maintain routines
Even though holiday days are busier, try to maintain your activity level. Break up your regular exercise routine into smaller segments if you don’t have as much time as usual, and remember that ten minutes here and there adds up.
A short walk before or after meals aids digestion and supports circulation. And sleep and stress management also matter: getting adequate rest and using relaxation techniques helps modulate blood pressure and cardiac stress.
Join our Heart Smart Program for personalized support
At NJ Cardiovascular Institute, our Heart Smart Program is designed to provide ongoing support for people managing heart conditions or those aiming to prevent them. The program offers:
Dietary monitoring and nutritional counseling tailored to your needs
Educational sessions to help you build awareness of heart-healthy choices
Exercise planning aligned with your cardiac status
Onsite case management and preventive testing
Tools for rhythm monitoring, pain management, and medication oversight
As you navigate holiday feasts, having a Heart Smart plan means you’re not going it alone. We’re here to give you personalized guidance and help you make sustainable, heart-smart decisions during the holidays and beyond.
Your holiday memories should center on connection, laughter, and warmth — not excess and regret. With mindful habits, flexibility, and the right support, you can enjoy festive meals and still protect your heart for the years ahead. Call us at 201-866-7000 or send us a message online to learn more.
by NJ Cardiovascular Institute | Oct 21, 2025 | Blog, Heart Health
Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is an irregular heartbeat that happens when the upper chambers of your heart (the atria) beat out of sync with the lower chambers (the ventricles). Instead of contracting effectively, the atria quiver and create an irregular and often rapid heartbeat.
While AFib on its own typically isn’t life-threatening, it disrupts your heart’s ability to pump blood; left untreated, it can significantly increase your risk of stroke, heart failure, and other complications. The good news is that AFib is treatable, and proactive care is the best way to protect your long-term health.
Kunal Patel, MD, and our team at NJ Cardiovascular Institute specialize in diagnosing and treating heart conditions with our Heart Smart Program. Here are five warning signs of AFib that everyone should know and no one should ignore.
1. Heart palpitations
Many people with AFib describe the feeling of their irregular heartbeats as a racing, pounding, or fluttering sensation in their chests. These sensations may come on suddenly and last for seconds, minutes, or longer.
2. Shortness of breath
Because AFib interferes with blood pumping, your body — and your lungs — may not always get enough oxygen. Even light activity, like walking or climbing stairs, can leave you unusually winded if you have untreated AFib.
4. Fatigue and weakness
If your heart isn’t pumping blood effectively, it can make you feel drained all the time. Persistent tiredness — even after a good night’s sleep — can be a subtle but important red flag that means it's time to get your heart checked.
3. Dizziness or lightheadedness
Low blood oxygen can leave your lungs and body fatigued, and it can also affect your brain. Irregular heart rhythms due to AFib can reduce blood flow to your brain and make you feel faint or unsteady. In severe cases, this may even lead to fainting spells.
5. Chest pain or pressure
You should always take chest discomfort seriously. While not everyone experiences chest pain with AFib, it’s important to talk to your doctor about it, because chest pain could also signal a heart attack that requires immediate medical attention.
AFib may come and go (paroxysmal AFib), persist for long periods, or even become permanent. Regardless of the type, it affects your heart’s ability to pump blood, which not only causes uncomfortable symptoms but also raises the chance of blood clots traveling to your brain and causing a stroke.
When to schedule a heart check for AFib symptoms
Do any of these warning signs sound familiar? It’s important not to dismiss them. Early detection and treatment are essential to protect both your heart health and overall quality of life, so schedule an appointment with a cardiologist if you’re experiencing palpitations, fatigue, or unexplained shortness of breath.
Remember that if you develop sudden chest pain, fainting, or severe shortness of breath, call 911 immediately because these may be signs of a medical emergency.
Dr. Patel offers comprehensive cardiac evaluations, which can include an electrocardiogram (ECG), monitoring devices, or imaging tests to assess your heart rhythm and overall heart health. With the right diagnosis, treatment options like medications, lifestyle changes, or procedures like ablation can help control AFib and reduce risks.
AFib is a serious but manageable condition when it’s caught early. By staying alert to common warning signs, you can take proactive steps toward protecting your heart. Call 201-866-7000 or book an appointment online with NJ Cardiovascular Institute in Elizabeth, Lakewood, Paramus, and Secaucus, New Jersey, to get started.
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by NJ Cardiovascular Institute | Aug 2, 2025 | Blog, Heart Health, Lung Health, Pulmonary Health
Chest X-rays are quick, noninvasive imaging tests that provide a detailed picture of the structures inside your chest, including your heart, lungs, airways, and bones.
A chest X-ray is often one of the first steps your doctor might recommend when evaluating symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, persistent cough, or fatigue. And at NJ Cardiovascular Institute, Kunal Patel, MD, and his team use chest X-rays as part of a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and monitoring a wide range of heart conditions.
When your doctor might recommend a chest X-ray
Dr. Patel may refer you for a chest X-ray if you’re experiencing new or unexplained symptoms like shortness of breath, chest discomfort, persistent coughing, or fatigue. It’s also a standard part of many routine cardiac evaluations and preoperative assessments.
Because chest X-rays are fast, accessible, and carry minimal radiation exposure, they can be a reliable first step in identifying or ruling out serious health concerns.
During the procedure, you stand or lie still while a small amount of radiation captures detailed images of the structures inside your chest. The entire process usually takes just a few minutes and gives your care team the ability to closely evaluate your heart, lungs, and surrounding bones.
What chest X-rays can show
A few things we might evaluate are:
Changes in heart size and shape
One of the most important things a chest X-ray can reveal is the size and shape of your heart. An enlarged heart may indicate underlying conditions like high blood pressure, heart failure, or cardiomyopathy.
If Dr. Patel suspects a cardiovascular issue, this simple imaging test can offer important clues about how well your heart is functioning and whether further testing — such as an echocardiogram or stress test — is needed.
Lung and airway conditions
Chest X-rays can also help evaluate your lungs and airways. They can detect infections like pneumonia, chronic conditions like COPD, or complications like fluid buildup in or around your lungs.
A chest X-ray may also show signs of lung nodules or masses that require additional imaging. If you’re experiencing respiratory symptoms, this test helps differentiate between heart-related and lung-related causes of discomfort.
Signs of fluid or inflammation
Sometimes chest pain or breathing issues are caused by fluid accumulation in the pleural space (pleural effusion) or around the heart (pericardial effusion). These conditions are often visible on a chest X-ray and help us make more informed decisions about your care.
Inflammation from infections or autoimmune diseases can also be identified through certain patterns visible on the image, guiding Dr. Patel toward an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.
How well medical devices are working
If you have a pacemaker, defibrillator, or central venous catheter, a chest X-ray can confirm that the device is in the correct position. We also use chest X-rays to track the progress of a diagnosed condition or monitor how well a treatment is working.
At NJ Cardiovascular Institute, we use chest X-rays in conjunction with other diagnostic tools to provide complete, ongoing care for patients with chronic or complex conditions. If you’re experiencing symptoms — or if you have concerns about your heart or lungs — we’re here to help.
Schedule a consultation at one of our clinics in Elizabeth, Lakewood, Paramus, and Secaucus, New Jersey, and take the first step toward clarity and peace of mind when it comes to your heart health.
by NJ Cardiovascular Institute | Jul 14, 2025 | Blog, Heart Health
Are you scheduled for an echocardiogram? You might be wondering what it involves and what to expect afterward — and our team at NJ Cardiovascular Institute is here to help. An echocardiogram is a common, noninvasive test that gives your cardiologist a detailed look at how your heart is functioning.
Kunal Patel, MD, and our team perform echocardiograms to help diagnose and monitor a variety of heart conditions. So whether you’re managing a known heart issue or checking on new symptoms, here’s what you should know about the process and what comes next.
Why you might need an echocardiogram
An echocardiogram is an ultrasound of your heart. It uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of your heart's chambers, valves, walls, and blood vessels. This test allows us to see how your heart beats and how well it pumps blood without an invasive procedure.
We use echocardiograms to detect a variety of issues, including:
Heart valve problems
Heart muscle weakness or damage
Congenital heart defects
Blood clots or fluid around the heart
Enlargement of the heart
Identifying issues like these helps us diagnose conditions like heart failure, cardiomyopathy, or valvular heart disease. We can also use echocardiograms to monitor known heart issues over time.
What happens during an echocardiogram
During the test, you lie down on an exam table while one of our technicians applies a special gel to your chest. Then, we move a handheld device called a transducer over your chest to capture images of your heart. The procedure is painless and typically takes 30-60 minutes.
Sometimes, Dr. Patel orders a stress echocardiogram, which involves exercising or receiving medication before the test to see how your heart performs under stress.
Depending on your situation, we might use a transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE), which involves inserting the transducer through your esophagus under mild sedation to get more detailed images of your heart at work.
What to expect after your echocardiogram
Once your testing is complete, there’s no recovery time required. If you’ve had a TEE, you may need a short observation period as the sedation wears off.
The technician who performs your echocardiogram isn’t responsible for interpreting the results, so don’t be concerned if they don’t offer any immediate insights. Instead, Dr. Patel reviews the images and data. He analyzes things like:
The size and shape of your heart
The movement and function of your heart walls and valves
The flow of blood through your heart
Once Dr. Patel has reviewed your echocardiogram, our team either calls you or schedules a follow-up appointment so you and Dr. Patel can discuss the findings.
Discussing echocardiogram results with your cardiologist
During your follow-up, Dr. Patel goes over the results of your echocardiogram in detail. If your heart function is normal, no further action may be needed. However, if any issues are detected, he explains his diagnosis and recommends next steps, which may include lifestyle changes, medications, or further testing.
At NJ Cardiovascular Institute — with offices in Elizabeth, Lakewood, Paramus, and Secaucus, New Jersey — we’re here to help you understand your heart health and guide you through any testing and treatment you may need.
If you have questions about your echocardiogram or heart care, we’re just a phone call away. Contact us today to get started.
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by NJ Cardiovascular Institute | Jun 1, 2025 | Blog, Heart Health
Millions of Americans have high cholesterol, one of the risk factors for heart disease. High cholesterol usually develops without any symptoms, which means you could have it without knowing it — but the good news is that small dietary changes may make a big difference.
Kunal Patel, MD, and our team at NJ Cardiovascular Institute specialize in high cholesterol, and understanding how foods may affect cholesterol levels can empower you to take control of your heart health naturally. Here’s how to get started.
How your diet affects your cholesterol levels
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that’s found in every cell of your body. You need some cholesterol to support bodily functions like producing hormones, vitamin D, and digestive bile.
But too much cholesterol — particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol — can build up in your arteries and increase your risk of heart attack or stroke. On the other hand, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), the “good” kind, helps carry cholesterol to where it can be removed from your bloodstream.
While your body produces cholesterol naturally, your diet also plays a key role in your overall cholesterol levels. Trans fats from processed foods can raise LDL cholesterol, but other types of foods can help lower LDL, raise HDL, and improve your overall heart health.
If you’re looking to achieve healthier cholesterol numbers, Dr. Patel recommends incorporating five common foods into your meals.
1. Oats and other whole grains
Oats are rich in soluble fiber, particularly beta-glucan. This type of fiber helps reduce LDL cholesterol by forming a gel-like substance in your digestive tract that traps cholesterol-rich bile acids and removes them from your body.
Starting your day with a bowl of oatmeal or adding barley, whole wheat, and brown rice to your meals can gradually lower cholesterol and provide fiber to improve digestion.
2. Fatty fish like salmon
Fatty fish, including salmon, mackerel, sardines, and tuna, are high in omega-3 fats. Omega-3s help reduce your triglyceride levels, lower blood pressure, and slow the growth of plaque in arteries.
Eating fatty fish two to three times a week may help raise your HDL cholesterol and support overall heart health. Grilling, baking, or broiling fish (instead of frying) helps preserve its benefits without adding additional fat.
3. Nuts, especially almonds and walnuts
Nuts are packed with healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and plant sterols, all of which support lower cholesterol levels. Walnuts are especially rich in omega-3s, and almonds can help reduce LDL when eaten regularly.
A small handful of unsalted nuts makes a heart-healthy snack, but be mindful of portion size since nuts are calorie-dense.
4. Avocados
Avocados are another rich source of monounsaturated fats, which may help lower LDL cholesterol and help you maintain or increase HDL. They also contain fiber and potassium, which benefit blood pressure and heart function.
Try adding avocado to salads, sandwiches, or smoothies for a creamy, heart-smart boost.
5. Legumes like beans, lentils, and chickpeas
Legumes are another excellent source of soluble fiber and plant-based protein. Regularly eating beans, lentils, and chickpeas can reduce LDL cholesterol and help you feel fuller longer. Replacing animal protein with legumes a few times per week can lower your overall fat intake as well.
Whether your cholesterol numbers are higher than you’d like or you simply want to take a more proactive approach to your heart health, incorporating these cholesterol-lowering foods into your daily diet is a simple and natural way to support your heart.
Dr. Patel and our team are here to answer your questions and provide personalized guidance, along with prescription medication, if needed. Combined with regular exercise, stress management, and routine check-ups, your diet can be one of the most powerful tools in protecting your cardiovascular health.
Learn more about how nutrition affects your heart health with a consultation at NJ Cardiovascular Institute in Elizabeth, Lakewood, Paramus, and Secaucus, New Jersey. Call us at 201-866-7000 or send us a message online to get started.
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by NJ Cardiovascular Institute | Apr 21, 2025 | Blog, Heart Health
Heart disease is a leading cause of illness and death in the United States, but it’s not a single condition. It’s actually an umbrella term that includes a range of cardiovascular problems. Understanding the different types of heart disease is the first step in recognizing risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options.
The Heart Smart Program at NJ Cardiovascular Institute is designed to help you take control of your heart health. From prevention to expert diagnosis and long-term heart disease management, we’re with you every step of the way.
Here’s more information about five of the most common types of heart disease and how we can help you manage them.
1. Coronary artery disease (CAD)
CAD is the most common type of heart disease. It occurs when plaque buildup — leading to a condition called atherosclerosis — narrows or blocks the arteries that supply blood to your heart muscle.
These blockages limit blood flow and can lead to chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, or even a heart attack. Risk factors include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, and diabetes.
2. Heart arrhythmias
Arrhythmias are irregular heartbeats that can make your heart beat too fast, too slow, or with an abnormal rhythm. Common arrhythmias include atrial fibrillation, bradycardia, and tachycardia.
While some arrhythmias are harmless, others can increase your risk of stroke or sudden cardiac arrest. Symptoms of arrhythmias can include palpitations, dizziness, and fainting.
3. Heart failure
Heart failure doesn’t mean your heart has stopped working, but it does mean your heart can’t pump blood as efficiently as it should. Heart failure is typically a result of other conditions like CAD or high blood pressure.
Inefficient blood flow can lead to fluid buildup in your lungs, legs, and other parts of your body. Common symptoms include fatigue, swelling, and difficulty breathing — especially during physical activity or when you’re lying down.
4. Valvular heart disease
Your heart has four valves that keep blood flowing in the right direction. Valvular heart disease develops when one or more of these valves doesn’t open or close properly.
Common causes of valvular disease are stenosis (narrowing), regurgitation (leakage), or prolapse, and symptoms can range from mild fatigue to severe shortness of breath and heart palpitations.
5. Congenital heart disease
Congenital heart disease refers to heart problems present at birth. Some are detected and treated early, while others may not show symptoms until adulthood. Congenital heart defects can affect your heart’s structure and function, and may require monitoring or surgery, depending on severity.
Take charge with the Heart Smart Program
A heart disease diagnosis can be scary, but it doesn’t mean your quality of life has to suffer. Our Heart Smart Program is designed to provide personalized care and proactive management for people living with heart disease.
Whether you’ve been newly diagnosed or you’re looking to better control a chronic condition, our comprehensive approach focuses on prevention, education, and lifestyle support. We help you understand your risk factors, stay on top of your medications, and make heart-healthy lifestyle choices.
Through close monitoring and compassionate care, we’re here to empower you to take charge of your heart health. Call NJ Cardiovascular Institute at 201-866-7000 to schedule your first appointment or send us a message to learn more.
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