by cardiopulmonarydiagnostic | Aug 9, 2026 | Uncategorized
Of every 1,000 births in the United States, about nine babies are born with congenital heart defects. A congenital heart defect is a problem that originated when a baby’s heart was developing in the womb, and it’s the most common birth defect in the country.
A baby’s heart is fully developed by the 8th week of pregnancy, and congenital heart defects form some time between conception and week 8. Most of the time, there’s no clear cause for congenital heart defects — but they can have a significant impact on a child’s health.
As a leading cardiologist, Kunal Patel, MD, specializes in heart care for people of all ages at NJ Cardiovascular Institute, with offices in Secaucus, Paramus, Lakewood, and Newark, New Jersey. If you recently found out your child has a heart defect, learn more about what to do next.
Understand the types of congenital heart defects
A congenital heart defect can occur when your baby’s heart doesn’t develop exactly like it should. There are at least 18 different types of congenital heart conditions, some more severe than others.
Every baby is unique, and some have a combination of conditions. If your baby is diagnosed with a heart defect, it’s important to ask questions and understand exactly what their diagnosis means.
The types of congenital heart defects can be grouped into three main categories.
The first category includes conditions that cause too much blood to flow through your baby’s lungs. These conditions can cause lung and respiratory stress, because oxygen-rich blood circulates through the lungs without traveling to other parts of the body.
Another category includes various heart conditions that cause too little blood to flow to the lungs. With this type of heart defect, the baby’s blood is oxygen-poor and their body doesn’t get enough oxygen.
The third main category of congenital heart defects includes conditions that cause too little blood to travel throughout the body. The baby’s heart may not be strong enough to pump blood to the rest of their body.
Signs of heart defects in babies
Some types of heart defects can be identified before the baby is born, using a fetal echocardiogram. However, many babies are diagnosed with heart defects after they’re born and they begin exhibiting symptoms of heart problems.
Signs of a congenital heart defect may include:
Blue-tinted lips, fingernails, or toenails
Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
Excessive sleepiness, particularly when feeding
Not every type of congenital heart defect causes symptoms, so it’s important to talk with your child’s pediatrician about their risk.
Care for your child and their heart defect
Learning that your child has a heart defect can be scary, but today’s medical technology means that you have treatment options available to you. An estimated three in four babies born with heart defects don’t need surgery or other medical procedures during their first year of life.
If your baby is diagnosed with a critical congenital heart defect, they may need surgery or another procedure to improve the way their heart functions. Your child’s pediatrician and their health care team will talk with you about your options for care.
Some children may need one or more surgeries to repair the structure and function of their hearts. Surgery isn’t always necessary, as some procedures can be done via a minimally invasive procedure called cardiac catheterization.
The goal of surgery and other treatments is to improve your child’s heart function. However, many congenital heart defects can’t be cured. Your child can live a long, healthy life, but they may need ongoing heart care with a trained cardiologist like Dr. Patel.
Dr. Patel provides personalized heart care for our patients at NJ Cardiovascular Institute. Schedule a consultation to learn more and meet our team. Call the office nearest you or book online now.
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by cardiopulmonarydiagnostic | Aug 9, 2026 | Uncategorized
An estimated 2 million people in the United States are living with a congenital heart defect. Congenital heart defects, sometimes called congenital heart disease, are problems in or around your heart that affect how it works.
The term “congenital” means present from birth, but that doesn’t mean that all congenital heart defects are identified when a baby is born. Some can go undetected until a child is older, while others may not show signs until adulthood.
Getting a congenital heart defect diagnosis can be scary, whether it’s you, your child, or another loved one that’s affected. At NJ Cardiovascular Institute, Kunal Patel, MD, and our team are here for you. We offer the latest in heart care services so you and your family can enjoy healthy, active lives.
Understanding congenital heart defects
Congenital heart defects are problems with the way a baby’s heart developed before they were born. There are at least 18 different types of congenital heart defects, ranging in severity from a small hole in the heart to severely deformed or missing parts.
A few common symptoms that newborn babies may exhibit if they have a congenital heart defect include:
Rapid breathing
Bluish tint to skin, lips, or nails
Fatigue
Poor blood circulation
Along with these symptoms common in babies and children, others can develop in adults with congenital heart problems.
Symptoms affecting adults can include:
Abnormal heart rhythms
Swelling of tissue or organs
Tiring quickly with exertion
Some congenital heart defects don’t show symptoms right away, and others never show symptoms. It’s also possible that a congenital heart defect that was treated years ago can begin showing symptoms again.
Diagnosing a congenital heart defect
It’s possible to identify and diagnose congenital heart defects at any point in your life. Sometimes, fetal echocardiogram testing identifies defects before a baby is born. Most commonly, defects are found after birth or during childhood.
At NJ Cardiovascular Institute, we offer comprehensive diagnostic testing to evaluate heart health, including echocardiograms and stress testing.
Having a congenital heart defect may put you or your loved one at risk for other heart problems throughout life.
Common conditions that occur alongside congenital heart defects include:
Pulmonary hypertension
Abnormal heart rhythms or palpitations
Congestive heart failure
Getting a diagnosis is the first step to better understanding your heart health. With the right treatment, it’s possible to enjoy a long and healthy life.
Life with a congenital heart defect
Since there are so many different types of congenital heart defects, treatments vary from one person to another. Mild or moderate defects may not require treatment at all. Instead, you or your child will need to visit with Dr. Patel regularly to ensure there aren’t any changes in heart health.
More serious congenital heart defects may require surgery or another procedure, like cardiac catheterization. Our goal in treating congenital heart defects is to correct them or minimize the effects that they have on your health.
As your child grows, talk to us about ways to keep them safe. Physical activity is generally good for the heart, but your child may need modifications at school to ensure they stay as healthy as possible.
If you or a loved one experiences chest pain or shortness of breath, call 911 or go to the emergency room. If you notice symptoms of a congenital heart defect and you’ve been diagnosed or treated for a defect in the past, make an appointment to see us.
These days, people born with heart defects can live long, healthy, and active lives. To learn more about caring for a loved one with a congenital heart defect, talk to Dr. Patel and our team. Call the office nearest you, in Secaucus or Newark, New Jersey, or use the “book online” feature today.
by cardiopulmonarydiagnostic | Aug 9, 2026 | Uncategorized
Many serious ailments come with warning signs like a lump or pain. High blood pressure, however, can often be a "silent killer" with no symptoms.
Here at the NJ Cardiovascular Institute in Secaucus and Newark, New Jersey, Dr. Kunal Patel and our highly trained team offer state-of-the-art treatment in our friendly relaxed offices. Whether you are suffering from heart disease, high blood pressure, varicose veins, or other issues, we provide personalized care and a customized treatment plan to improve your health.
What is high blood pressure?
Blood pressure readings consist of two numbers that measure the force of the blood against the artery walls. The top (systolic) number measures the force when the heart is beating, and it’s the larger of the two numbers. The bottom (diastolic) number measures the pressure when the heart is relaxed between beats. Blood pressure is considered normal when the systolic number is less than 120 and the diastolic is lower than 80.
Symptoms and statistics
Most people don’t have any symptoms of high blood pressure. Others may experience general symptoms like headaches, shortness of breath, or nosebleeds, which they often don't take seriously. It's not surprising, then, that approximately 11 million adults in the United States don’t know they have high blood pressure — and aren’t receiving treatment.
Risk factors
A number of risk factors can influence who develops high blood pressure. Aging increases the chances, with it being more common in men until their mid-60s, at which point women become more likely to see high numbers. It is also more common in people of African heritage. Genetics play a role, too.
Lifestyle choices can also affect your risk. Being overweight, having a sedentary lifestyle, using tobacco, and drinking too much alcohol can all play a role. A poor diet, including too much salt and too little potassium, can also contribute. Stress, as well as some chronic health ailments, can also increase your risk.
Diagnosis and treatment
Given high blood pressure can lead to everything from heart attacks, strokes, and aneurysms to heart failure, vision issues, dementia, and more, it's important to know your numbers and get treatment if they are high.
Blood pressure changes throughout the day and can also rise when you're at the doctor's office. Therefore, your reading will typically be taken two or three times at three or more separate appointments to make sure the numbers are accurate and consistent. It is measured in both arms, and your doctor may even ask you to take it at home for comparison.
If you’re diagnosed with high blood pressure, improving your lifestyle habits can help, including eating a heart-healthy diet that’s low in salt, exercising regularly, losing weight if necessary, and watching your alcohol intake. If healthier habits don't bring your numbers down low enough, medications can also be discussed.
If you're not sure of your blood pressure numbers or have any other cardiology issues, contact Dr. Patel today to make sure your heart stays in the best condition possible.
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by cardiopulmonarydiagnostic | Aug 9, 2026 | Uncategorized
Almost one in two American adults has high blood pressure (hypertension). It’s one of the most common cardiovascular conditions that can increase your risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and other serious complications — and it develops without any obvious symptoms.
Because high blood pressure is “silent,” many people are surprised to find out they have it, and the diagnosis can feel overwhelming. That’s where the Heart Smart Program at NJ Cardiovascular Institute can help.
Kunal Patel, MD, and our team offer personalized heart care in Elizabeth, Lakewood, Paramus, and Secaucus, New Jersey, and our Heart Smart Program helps take the guesswork out of managing your high blood pressure.
How our Heart Smart Program supports people with hypertension
This comprehensive cardiovascular wellness program is designed to support patients with a range of heart-related concerns, including high blood pressure. It combines medical expertise with lifestyle education and ongoing monitoring to provide a holistic approach to heart health.
We tailor your plan to meet your specific needs, so you’re not getting a one-size-fits-all solution that may or may not work for you. Whether you’re newly diagnosed with hypertension, you’ve been living with it for years, or you have other heart conditions alongside high blood pressure, here’s how it can make a difference for you:
1. Personalized evaluation and monitoring
High blood pressure doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms, but it does cause real damage to your arteries and organs over time. We start with a baseline evaluation, and regular diagnostics like echocardiograms or stress testing help identify how your blood pressure is affecting your cardiovascular system. Then, we can track your progress over time.
The program includes ongoing care, follow-up support, and regular check-ins. Our goal is to adjust your management plan as your needs change, so you can stay on track and avoid setbacks.
2. Education and lifestyle support
Lifestyle changes can have a positive impact on your blood pressure, and understanding what affects your blood pressure empowers you to act. The Heart Smart Program includes educational sessions to help you make heart-healthy choices about eating, activity, stress management, and daily habits — all essential components of blood pressure control.
3. Nutritional and exercise guidance
Your diet and activity level play a major role in managing hypertension, and the program includes personalized nutritional counseling and exercise regimens. We evaluate your lifestyle, dietary preferences, and overall health to create nutrition and exercise plans that are sustainable — and that support better heart function and healthier blood pressure levels.
4. Enhanced coordination of care
Hypertension rarely exists independently. That means if you have high blood pressure, you might also be more likely to have high cholesterol, arrhythmias, or other heart disease risk factors.
The Heart Smart Program integrates preventive care, diagnostics, and tailored treatment planning so you’re addressing not just blood pressure, but your whole cardiovascular risk profile. Plus, we work with other specialists on your care team to coordinate appointments, referrals, and follow-ups as needed.
Is our Heart Smart Program right for you?
The answer is probably yes! We recommend the Heart Smart Program to any patient looking to improve their heart health with personalized, structured support.
Even if your hypertension is well-managed now, the program can help you optimize heart health and reduce future risk. We combine ongoing monitoring, lifestyle guidance, and medication as needed to maximize your heart health and your long-term wellness.
If high blood pressure is affecting your health or peace of mind, our Heart Smart Program could help you move from simply managing numbers to actively improving your cardiovascular health. Contact us online or call 201-866-7000 to schedule an appointment and get started on a sustainable care plan that truly fits your needs.
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by cardiopulmonarydiagnostic | Aug 9, 2026 | Uncategorized
The holiday season is a time of celebration, indulgence, and joy — but it’s also an important time to prioritize self-care, and your heart health is the perfect place to start. Whether you’ve had a heart procedure or you have a chronic condition, our Heart Smart Program at NJ Cardiovascular Institute can help you keep your heart strong and resilient.
The program is available in Elizabeth, Lakewood, Paramus, and Secaucus, New Jersey, and it’s designed to give you comprehensive heart care that emphasizes prevention, monitoring, and continued wellness all year round. Here’s why it might be one of the best gifts you can give yourself this holiday season.
Why your heart health matters
Your heart beats about 60-100 times and pumps 5-6 quarts of blood every minute of every day. It delivers oxygen and nutrients your cells need to thrive, and it’s at the core of your overall well-being.
Maintaining a strong and healthy cardiovascular system reduces your risk of serious conditions like heart disease, heart attacks, and stroke, and it helps sustain energy levels and organ function. A proactive approach to heart health, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and preventive medical care, helps ensure that this vital organ continues to work efficiently and protects your long-term health.
And if you’ve had heart conditions or procedures in the past or you’re managing chronic issues like congestive heart failure, taking care of your heart is extra important. Our Heart Smart Program makes it simple to focus on prevention and continual management to support long-term health and reduce your risk of future health complications.
Key features of our Heart Smart Program
Managing your heart health can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re recovering from a heart procedure or you’re living with a chronic heart condition. What sets our Heart Smart Program apart is its comprehensive, multi-faceted approach. It includes services that cater to the entire spectrum of heart care needs, from prevention to detailed monitoring and lifestyle management.
We tailor the program to your specific needs. With dietary monitoring, educational sessions, and onsite case management, our goal is to provide a seamless, supportive experience to help you achieve and maintain your best health.
Whether you’re recovering from a prior heart procedure or managing chronic conditions, the Heart Smart Program offers targeted care that can lead to meaningful lifestyle changes and enhanced well-being.
A few key features include:
Diagnostic services
We offer various tests like echocardiograms, stress tests, and electrocardiograms (ECG or EKG) to assess heart function and detect potential issues early.
Heart rhythm monitoring
Continuous heart rhythm assessments help identify irregularities and provide valuable data for ongoing treatment plans.
Lifestyle and nutrition management
Educational sessions and personalized dietary guidance empower you to make heart-healthy choices every day.
Exercise and pain management plans
Tailored exercise routines and pain management solutions aim to enhance your physical activity while reducing discomfort.
Give yourself the gift of a healthier heart
The holiday season often comes with added stress, indulgent meals, and busy schedules — and did you know all this can have an impact on your heart health? So before the holidays arrive is an excellent time to take charge and invest in a program that supports you now and in the future.
This holiday season, give yourself the invaluable gift of comprehensive heart care. Join the Heart Smart Program at NJ Cardiovascular Institute and take a proactive step toward a healthier future. Contact us today to learn more.
by cardiopulmonarydiagnostic | Aug 9, 2026 | Uncategorized
Coronary artery disease, the most common type of heart disease, affects more than 20 million Americans. It’s the leading cause of death for both men and women — but the good news is that it can be prevented.
In fact, there are lots of ways to reduce your risk of heart disease — and you can start by reevaluating your diet. Kunal Patel, MD, and our team at NJ Cardiovascular Institute are ready to help.
We specialize in cardiovascular care. Our Heart Smart Program is designed to give you the tools you need to take control of your heart health.
Here’s what you need to know about your diet and heart health, including four of the best foods to eat to prevent heart disease.
How your diet affects heart health
Your diet plays a major role in heart health. The foods you eat every day can either positively or negatively affect your heart, and making healthier choices helps reduce your risk of heart disease.
For example, a diet high in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and healthy fats boosts heart health. Foods rich in fiber help lower your cholesterol levels, and foods high in antioxidants can help reduce inflammation and protect your heart from damage.
On the other hand, a diet high in calories, sugar, unhealthy fats, and salt can increase your risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity. All of these health conditions are considered major risk factors for heart disease.
Along with what you eat, how much you eat matters. Overeating can lead to weight gain, while regularly consuming large meals, particularly those high in fat and salt, may increase your blood pressure.
Eating smaller, more frequent meals made with healthier foods can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce your risk of heart disease. Pay attention to portion sizes, and try to limit your intake of processed foods, which are often high in calories, added sugar, salt, and additives.
The best foods to help prevent heart disease
The key to a heart-healthy diet is eating a variety of whole foods. Focus on eating fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats each day. If you’re not sure where to start, you can’t go wrong with these four foods:
1. Leafy greens
Leafy greens contain essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber that can promote health and help prevent heart disease. Choose darker greens, like spinach and kale, often.
2. Berries
Berries, including blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries, are rich in antioxidants called flavonoids. Flavonoids can help lower your blood pressure, reduce inflammation in your body, and improve blood vessel function. Berries are also low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great snack or dessert.
3. Fatty fish
Fatty fish, like salmon and tuna, are rich in omega-3 fats. Omega-3s offer a handful of heart-healthy benefits, including reducing inflammation, lowering triglyceride levels, and lowering blood pressure.
4. Nuts and seeds
Nuts and seeds contain unsaturated fats, fiber, and protein. Eating nuts and seeds, like almonds and chia seeds, can reduce inflammation, lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, and improve blood sugar control.
However, nuts and seeds are also high in calories, so eat them in moderation. Consider eating a handful of nuts or seeds as a snack or sprinkle them on top of a salad for an added boost of nutrition.
When it comes to protecting your heart health, eating a healthy diet is essential. Learn more about switching to a heart-healthy diet at NJ Cardiovascular Institute. To get started, call one of our offices in Elizabeth, Lakewood, Paramus, or Secaucus, New Jersey, or send our team a message online.
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