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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Could a big belly indicate a heart problem?
Yes. If the belly is big due to water accumulation called ascites, then right-sided heart failure could be the cause. A 2-D Echo would help assess the heart and the right ventricular READ MORE
Yes. If the belly is big due to water accumulation called ascites, then right-sided heart failure could be the cause. A 2-D Echo would help assess the heart and the right ventricular function. An ultrasound of the belly can help tell if there is any fluid in the belly.
Can heart blockages be cleared with medicine?
Yes, medication can stabilize and even reduce the size of cholesterol plaque. This is a slow process, however, and your brother needs his arteries cleared now. Once opened, then READ MORE
Yes, medication can stabilize and even reduce the size of cholesterol plaque. This is a slow process, however, and your brother needs his arteries cleared now. Once opened, then the doctors will place him on the medications to help keep this from happening again.
I am a 37 year old man. How often should I do a treadmill test to know my fitness levels?
Unless you have a very high-risk profile such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, smoking, family history, etc., you don't. You do need to get a trainer and hit the gym so you READ MORE
Unless you have a very high-risk profile such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, smoking, family history, etc., you don't. You do need to get a trainer and hit the gym so you can safely improve your exercise tolerance and your fitness level.
What causes an irregular heartbeat in women?
Yes and yes. While menopause can cause rhythm issues, so can thyroid issues, high blood pressure, obstructive sleep apnea, over-the-counter medications, supplements, and caffeine READ MORE
Yes and yes. While menopause can cause rhythm issues, so can thyroid issues, high blood pressure, obstructive sleep apnea, over-the-counter medications, supplements, and caffeine consumption. Go see your doctor to help sort things out.
What is the treatment for high blood pressure?
Secondary causes will need to be evaluated and corrected. If the medications she is on aren't helping, then yes, new ones may help.
My son gets tired very fast after playing. Could it be a sign of a weak heart?
This needs a complete history and physical along with blood work. The heart and/or the lungs could be the problem.
Can diabetes cause heart complications?
Yes, it's a major cause for coronary artery disease.
How is atrial fibrillation usually diagnosed?
ECG usually but if it's intermittent then Holter monitor can be used.
What can I expect from carotid doppler?
No pain is involved. No IV needed as well. A little jelly on your neck and an ultrasound probe looks at your vessel's anatomy.
How long can a stent stay in?
They stay in forever. They may need to be re-dilated or a bypass may be needed somewhere down the line, but the stents stay in forever.
Is a small blockage in your heart a cause for concern?
Doesn't sound like anything to worry about.
What age should you see a cardiologist?
If you don't have any risk factors other than your age and gender, then I guess I would follow your primary care doctor's lead. He or she should tell you if he or she thinks it's READ MORE
If you don't have any risk factors other than your age and gender, then I guess I would follow your primary care doctor's lead. He or she should tell you if he or she thinks it's time.
Can EKG show an old heart attack?
it can indicate a POSSIBLE heart attack. The ECHO would confirm its truth. Many times, the ECG overcalls things like this. Maybe it's a normal variant. ECG's are a screening test READ MORE
it can indicate a POSSIBLE heart attack. The ECHO would confirm its truth. Many times, the ECG overcalls things like this. Maybe it's a normal variant. ECG's are a screening test and by definition are a highly sensitive exam which can generate false positive results.
My dad is feeling breathless after his bypass. Could there be something serious?
It's not uncommon for post-bypass patients to have fluid on their lungs. A simple chest X-ray should show it. Some patients need the fluid drained. An EKG may show a change in READ MORE
It's not uncommon for post-bypass patients to have fluid on their lungs. A simple chest X-ray should show it. Some patients need the fluid drained. An EKG may show a change in rhythm such as atrial fibrillation, which can cause this. Heart failure and pneumonia also possible. Needs to get in and see his cardiologist or his surgeon.
Can shortness of breath during pregnancy be related to the heart?
Yes. Would get an ECG and an echo to make sure.
What are the signs of identifying a problem with the heart?
Oxygenation problems, murmurs, and rhythm issues are most common triggers for work-up.
After a bypass, how many times should you go for a cardiac checkup?
Should see her cardiologist every six months
I experience a rapid heartbeat during my periods. What could be wrong?
Changes in hormones can cause rythm issues. Pain with dysmenorrhea can cause fast heart rates. If you are a heavy bleeder then anemia can trigger a reactive tachycardis.
