EXPERT
Mark Rasak
Cardiologist
<p>Mark Rasak, DO, specializes in providing a full range of services in preventative as well as interventional cardiology. A graduate from the College of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery in Des Moines, Iowa, Dr. Rasak completed his post-graduate training at Botsford Hospital and his fellowship in interventional cardiology at the University of Michigan Hospital where he also served as Clinical Instructor. Dr. Rasak is affiliated with Botsford, Oakwood, Providence and Sinai-Grace Hospitals.</p>
Mark Rasak
- Iowa
- Accepting new patients
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Does the fitness tracker band show the actual heart rate?
Pretty accurate. I would see your doctor and get an ECG, 48 hour holter, lab and if warranted an echocardiogram of the heart.
At what age is one at a high risk of a heart attack?
In general males risk go up at 40 years of age. But age is only one of several risk factors. Your grandparents did not die prematurely from CAD so not really relevant.
What causes chest pain in children?
Too broad a question. Not enough clinical data.
What is the first aid for a heart attack?
CPR course and an external defibrillator.
Do I see a cardiothoracic surgeon for congestive heart failure?
Most cardiologists can handle congestive heart failure. Rarely a sub-specialist is needed which are cardiologists that take 1-2 years additional training.
How can I manage high blood pressure naturally?
Lose weight, 2000 mg sodium diet, stop smoking (if you do), avoid caffeine, avoid alcohol. This may help, but depending on how high it is, you may still need medication.
Can people with arrhythmia lead a full life without treatment?
Yes, usually. Of course, it depends on the type of arrhythmia and the treatment history.
Can a stress test show a blockage in my heart?
It's possible. Some stress tests are more sensitive than others. Even a normal stress test doesn't guarantee you have no blockage. Depending on the results, it can help risk-stratify READ MORE
It's possible. Some stress tests are more sensitive than others. Even a normal stress test doesn't guarantee you have no blockage. Depending on the results, it can help risk-stratify your chest pain.
When do you need a pacemaker?
This is a broad question. But usually, when the heart rate drops into the 30 BPM or a pause in the rhythm of 3 seconds or more. However, one may put in under less stringent conditions READ MORE
This is a broad question. But usually, when the heart rate drops into the 30 BPM or a pause in the rhythm of 3 seconds or more. However, one may put in under less stringent conditions if the patient is symptomatic.
What can I do to manage my cholesterol?
If your diet isn't exceptionally poor, then your cholesterol is likely genetic and will need to be treated by a statin. The new guidelines suggest a more aggressive approach. Chances READ MORE
If your diet isn't exceptionally poor, then your cholesterol is likely genetic and will need to be treated by a statin. The new guidelines suggest a more aggressive approach. Chances are you could go vegan and it wouldn't get you to your goal.
Can you live a normal life after a heart attack?
Yes, but you need to take the medication, get involved in cardiac rehab, stay active, and don't smoke. Need cholesterol/sugars/blood pressure treated aggressively.
What are some lifestyle changes to prevent further heart issues for my husband?
Without knowing his medical history or his risk factors, I will have to stick with the standard response: lose weight, exercise, don't smoke, and make sure his cholesterol and READ MORE
Without knowing his medical history or his risk factors, I will have to stick with the standard response: lose weight, exercise, don't smoke, and make sure his cholesterol and sugar labs are okay.
What are the symptoms of cardiovascular disease?
Not always that simple. Classic symptoms are chest pressure/tightness, sweating, nausea, maybe left arm discomfort or occasionally both arms, but women, diabetics, and elderly READ MORE
Not always that simple. Classic symptoms are chest pressure/tightness, sweating, nausea, maybe left arm discomfort or occasionally both arms, but women, diabetics, and elderly may not have classic symptoms. See your family doctor for a physical.
What is heart disease?
Usually refers to coronary artery disease.
Are sweaty palms common with high blood pressure?
Not typically, no.
I am experiencing tachycardia after having heavy bleeding during my menstrual cycle. What should I do?
Not sure what your age is or heart rate was or if you are anemic, so I'll answer with generalities. The tachycardia is likely secondary to the low hemoglobin (effects of the hormones READ MORE
Not sure what your age is or heart rate was or if you are anemic, so I'll answer with generalities. The tachycardia is likely secondary to the low hemoglobin (effects of the hormones and anxiety during your period can play a role as well). When a patient loses blood and the blood count drops, the fast heart rate is a reflexive tachycardia and is normal. Treat the periods and rate will take care of itself.
Can ayurveda help in clearing heart blockages?
Unlikely. No scientific data to support this. Previous studies have implicated heavy metal toxicity with taking theses supplements purchased over the internet. Lead/Mercury/Arsenic READ MORE
Unlikely. No scientific data to support this. Previous studies have implicated heavy metal toxicity with taking theses supplements purchased over the internet. Lead/Mercury/Arsenic has been noted in up to 20% of these “medications” when analyzed.
What are my chances of a heart attack after a bypass?
Yes, the very fact you have significant premature coronary artery disease requiring bypass surgery puts you at a higher risk for future events. You require very aggressive risk READ MORE
Yes, the very fact you have significant premature coronary artery disease requiring bypass surgery puts you at a higher risk for future events. You require very aggressive risk factor modification and adhere to strict lifestyle modification. Otherwise, need more history, surgical details, etc.
Can ECG detect heart disease?
Usually not. ECG is a screening tool. If you have obvious abnormalities on the ECG, it may be helpful. But if it's normal, it doesn't mean you're out of the woods. We need to do READ MORE
Usually not. ECG is a screening tool. If you have obvious abnormalities on the ECG, it may be helpful. But if it's normal, it doesn't mean you're out of the woods. We need to do a stress test to see if there are any abnormalities during exertion to help determine if there is a concern.
Do e-cigarettes reduce the risk of heart attacks?
Data is still being accumulated regarding some of your questions. Currently, recommendations support that E-cigs are probably better than real cigarettes.
