by cardiopulmonarydiagnostic | Aug 9, 2026 | Uncategorized
Most of the time, your heart beats regularly and you don’t notice it. But sometimes, a skip, flutter, or change in heart rate can catch your attention. These irregular heartbeats can happen while you’re active or at rest, and they might make you worry about the health of your heart.
Irregular heartbeats, also called heart palpitations, can be unnerving, but they generally aren’t a sign of something more serious. But if you experience palpitations regularly — or if you have an underlying heart condition — make an appointment to have your heart examined.
Kunal Patel, MD, and our team at NJ Cardiovascular Institute in Newark and Secaucus, New Jersey, have the expertise to diagnose and treat many common heart issues, including heart palpitations.
Understanding heart palpitations
Heart palpitations occur when your heartbeat changes pace. It might feel like a fluttering, a skipped beat, or a pounding sensation. Some people feel palpitations in the chest, while others notice them in their throat or neck.
The way palpitations feel can vary greatly from person to person, but no matter how they feel, many people find them worrisome. The truth is that they’re most often the result of factors not related to your heart, which can include:
Anxiety or stress
Vigorous exercise
Too much caffeine, nicotine, or alcohol
Hormonal changes
Prescription medications
Illicit drugs
Some health conditions can make it more likely that you’ll experience heart palpitations. These include anemia, thyroid disease, low blood sugar, and low blood pressure. Pregnancy can also be a cause of heart palpitations.
When heart palpitations should be checked out
Don’t hesitate to visit our team if you’re concerned about your heart. Unless you have a pre-existing heart condition, most heart palpitations are a rare occurrence. But even if your heart palpitations aren’t a sign of a more serious health issue, getting checked out can help put your mind at ease.
If your heart palpitations are accompanied by shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, or loss of consciousness, seek immediate medical attention. If you have a known heart condition, such as a prior heart attack, heart disease, or coronary artery disease, seeking care for heart palpitations can help your heart stay strong.
Heart palpitations generally happen quickly, and the irregular heartbeat is gone by the time you come in to the office. Consider keeping notes when you experience a palpitation, and come to your appointment prepared to talk about your symptoms.
The doctor performs a physical exam and listens to your heartbeat. If your heart palpitations are caused by a murmur, he can detect irregular sounds and potential issues with your heart’s valves through this exam.
We may recommend additional testing depending on your symptoms and medical history. A blood test can evaluate the possibility of thyroid imbalance, low potassium, or anemia. Another common test to evaluate heart palpitations is an electrocardiogram (EKG).
Once we determine the cause of your heart palpitations, we can prescribe treatment to help your heartbeat stay normal. In many cases, lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, and getting more sleep can lead to significant improvements in your heart health.
Find top-quality care for your heart at NJ Cardiovascular Institute. If you’re concerned about heart palpitations, call one of our offices today or book an appointment online.
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by cardiopulmonarydiagnostic | Aug 9, 2026 | Uncategorized
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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by cardiopulmonarydiagnostic | Aug 9, 2026 | Uncategorized
The holiday season is a time for joy, gratitude, and celebration. And it's also a time when many people tend to indulge in rich, decadent foods and let their usual healthy habits slide.
While it's perfectly okay to enjoy some holiday treats, don’t let the coming months put your heart health at risk. Kunal Patel, MD, and our team at NJ Cardiovascular Institute are here to help you find a sustainable approach to heart-healthy choices, no matter the season.
Here are a few of our favorite tips and strategies for making heart-smart decisions and still savoring the holiday season.
1. Plan your meals
Planning your holiday meals in advance can make it much easier to stick to heart-healthy choices when you’re gathered around the table. Start by incorporating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into your menu so you’re getting essential nutrients and fiber, which help support heart health.
2. Choose heart-healthy ingredients and cooking methods
The way you prepare your holiday meals can have a big impact on heart health. Opt for cooking methods like baking, grilling, steaming, and roasting instead of frying or deep-frying. These methods use less oil and help preserve the nutritional value of the food.
Look for festive, heart-friendly recipes or modify traditional holiday recipes by using substitutions. Swap in healthy fats like olive oil or avocado oil. Choose whole grains over refined grains and opt for lean proteins like turkey or fish. When cooking at home, use herbs, spices, and citrus to add flavor without relying on excessive amounts of sugar or salt.
3. Enjoy alcohol mindfully
Alcohol can be part of holiday celebrations, but always remember to consume it responsibly. Sugary drinks and excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to weight gain and negatively impact heart health. So limit your alcohol intake, and consider alternating alcoholic beverages with non-alcoholic ones like sparkling water.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water every day. Be aware of the potential interactions between alcohol and any medications you may be taking. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to consult with Dr. Patel and our team.
4. Prioritize physical activity
The holidays can mean a disruption in your usual routine, and it’s easy to start skipping workouts. Regular physical activity is a crucial component of heart health, so make sure your exercise habits don’t suffer this season.
Schedule time for your workouts, even if they're shorter than usual. Bundle up for a walk, engage in holiday-themed outdoor activities, or dance to your favorite holiday tunes. Regular exercise helps control your weight, lower cholesterol levels, and reduce your risk of heart disease.
5. Manage stress
The holidays can be stressful, and stress can negatively impact your heart health. Integrate stress-reduction techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your days to help you stay calm and centered.
A well-rested body is better equipped to manage stress, so make quality sleep a priority, too. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to enjoy lower stress levels and enhanced overall well-being.
6. Don't skip your regular check-ups
Last but not least, don't neglect your regular check-ups. Routine cardiology care is essential for monitoring your heart health and catching any potential issues early.
At NJ Cardiovascular Institute, our Heart Smart Program is designed to help you protect and manage your heart health all year round. The holiday season can be a time of joy and celebration without the temptation of unhealthy indulgence — and we’re here to help.
Learn more about lifestyle changes for heart health with an appointment at NJ Cardiovascular Institute. Call one of our offices in Elizabeth, Lakewood, Paramus, and Secaucus, New Jersey, or send us a message online today.
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by cardiopulmonarydiagnostic | Aug 9, 2026 | Uncategorized
Your circulatory system contains nearly 60,000 miles of arteries and veins. Arteries transport blood from your heart throughout your body, and veins transport blood back to your heart again with every heartbeat.
Healthy veins are usually invisible, but certain venous conditions can make veins swell and become more noticeable under your skin. In fact, nearly one in four American adults has varicose veins, the most common venous condition in the country.
Varicose veins are large, twisted veins, and they’re most common in your legs and ankles. While they’re also a cosmetic concern, severe varicose veins can compromise blood circulation in your legs.
The good news is that treatment can help. As a heart specialist, Kunal Patel, MD, also diagnoses and treats venous issues like varicose veins. If you’re concerned about varicose veins, our team at NJ Cardiovascular Institute is here to help you understand your treatment options.
Lifestyle changes for varicose veins
Not all varicose veins cause symptoms. But some people do experience bothersome symptoms that can include swelling, pain, itching, and muscle cramps.
Whether or not you experience symptoms, varicose veins can be unsightly and embarrassing. If you come to NJ Cardiovascular Institute for vein care, we start with a comprehensive exam and discuss your medical history and your symptoms.
Many people find that the appearance of their varicose veins diminishes and symptoms subside with a combination of lifestyle changes for varicose veins.
Dr. Patel may suggest conservative treatments like:
Avoiding foods high in salt
Elevating your legs when you rest
Exercising regularly
Maintaining a healthy weight
Wearing compression stockings
These treatments can improve blood flow to and from your legs, reduce water retention in your body, and help minimize swelling in your veins. Even if you don’t have bothersome varicose veins right now, these habits can also help you prevent varicose veins from developing later on.
Radiofrequency ablation for varicose veins
If conservative treatment and lifestyle changes don’t make a difference for your varicose veins, you’re not out of options. Talk to Dr. Patel to find out if you’re a good candidate for radiofrequency ablation (RFA) to treat your varicose veins.
RFA is a safe and effective treatment for many people with varicose veins. It’s a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that we do in our office, and little to no downtime is required.
During RFA, Dr. Patel inserts a thin tube into the affected vein and uses an electrical current to gently heat it. The heat permanently damages the vein, and blood stops flowing into it. The entire process generally takes less than an hour.
You may need to wear a compression garment for about a week after RFA. In the weeks following your procedure, the varicose vein will fade from view and your symptoms should subside.
You don’t have to live with embarrassing or uncomfortable varicose veins. With offices in Lakewood, Newark, Paramus, and Secaucus, New Jersey, our team at NJ Cardiovascular Institute is here to help. Schedule a vein consultation over the phone or send us a message online today.
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by cardiopulmonarydiagnostic | Aug 9, 2026 | Uncategorized
Do you have twisted, puffy, discolored veins on your legs or feet? You’re not alone — almost 25% of American adults have varicose veins — but you don’t have to live with them.
Varicose veins are one of the most common vascular conditions, and they form when the valves inside veins malfunction and become less efficient at sending blood back to your heart. Blood gets trapped in your veins and pools, creating raised, enlarged veins that are visible under the surface of your skin.
These veins can be embarrassing, but they can also cause painful symptoms. If you’re bothered by varicose veins, schedule a vein assessment with Kunal Patel, MD, and our team at NJ Cardiovascular Institute. We offer ultrasound for diagnostic imaging as well as personalized treatment for people with varicose veins.
Preparing for your varicose vein assessment
Your varicose vein appointment starts with an exam. We look at your legs while you’re sitting or standing to locate visible varicose veins, and we talk with you about your symptoms.
For many people, varicose veins are primarily a cosmetic concern, but don’t hesitate to bring up any other symptoms you’re experiencing at your appointment.
Along with visible, unsightly veins, other possible symptoms include:
Feeling of heaviness in legs
Aching sensation in legs
Swelling
Burning or cramping pain
Pain with long periods of sitting
Pain with extended periods of standing
Itching near a vein
Skin discoloration around a vein
We review your symptoms and your medical history to determine the extent of your condition. Depending on the severity of your varicose veins and other symptoms, we might recommend additional diagnostic testing with ultrasound.
Getting an ultrasound for varicose veins
Ultrasound testing helps us confirm your varicose vein diagnosis and rule out other vascular disorders. Sometimes, symptoms like leg pain and heaviness are due to other vascular conditions, like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and ultrasound allows us to give you an accurate diagnosis.
A vascular ultrasound is a noninvasive test that utilizes high-frequency sound waves to create pictures of tissues inside your body. You don’t have to do anything to prepare for the test, and we perform it right in the office.
We apply a gel to your legs or feet, wherever the varicose veins are located. The technician gently guides the ultrasound device over your varicose veins, and the test shows how the valves in your veins are working.
If additional testing is needed, we may perform a Doppler ultrasound to see blood flowing through your veins. Duplex ultrasound combines both regular and Doppler ultrasound to give our team a comprehensive look at your vein health.
You don’t have to live with varicose veins. Find out more about your condition with a diagnostic ultrasound at NJ Cardiovascular Institute, and get a treatment plan that’s right for you. Contact us while you’re online, or call the nearest office — in Newark, Secaucus, or Paramus, New Jersey — for a consultation.
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by cardiopulmonarydiagnostic | Aug 9, 2026 | Uncategorized
Our hearts beat between 60 and 100 times a minute on average — and more if we're exercising. Doesn't it make sense to make sure your ticker is working as efficiently as possible? A stress test can do just that.
Here at NJ Cardiovascular Institute, with offices located in Secaucus and Newark, New Jersey, board-certified cardiologist Dr. Kunal Patel and our highly trained team can address all of your heart-health concerns. We strongly believe in the power of prevention and conduct diagnostic procedures including stress tests.
A stress test can help you identify heart issues early and prevent more serious complications. Read on to find out how a stress test works, and what to expect.
What is a stress test?
Also called a treadmill test or exercise test, a stress test makes your heart work harder through physical activity. This causes it to need more oxygen and beat faster to pump more blood. During this period of exertion, doctors can more easily diagnose issues with the heart or blood flow that may not be detected during less strenuous activity.
Reasons for a stress test
Stress tests are conducted for a number of reasons, and a medical professional can evaluate if you need one. In general, a stress test can confirm or rule out either of the following:
Coronary artery disease, which typically occurs when the arteries have become damaged by a buildup of cholesterol and plaque deposits
Heart arrhythmias, or problems with the electrical impulses that coordinate your heart rhythm
In addition to helping diagnostically, the test can be used to guide a treatment path. For example, it can determine how well an existing regimen is working or assist in deciding when a valve replacement, heart transplant, or other advanced procedure may be needed.
Stress test procedure
You will be given specific instructions before your stress test. Those may include not eating or drinking before the test, as well as abstaining from smoking and caffeine for a set period of time beforehand. Your medications may need to be modified as well.
Before the in-office test, Dr. Patel conducts a thorough medical history and evaluates your heart and lungs. He then puts a blood pressure cuff around your arm and attaches electrodes to certain areas on your chest and legs.
Next, you exercise on a treadmill or stationary bike until your heart rate hits the desired target number. If you experience any discomfort, pain, or shortness of breath, be sure to report it immediately.
The test results provide a unique insight into your heart and help guide your customized treatment plan to maintain or improve your health.
If you want to learn more about the status of your arteries, electrical rhythm, and heart in general, call us at 201-866-7000 or click our “book online” button to make an appointment with Dr. Patel today.
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