Dr. Afroze Ahmad
If one philosophy could sum up Las Sendas Cardiology, it would be the importance of spending time to actively listen to each patient.
Time is the one element often lacking in doctor-patient visits, Dr. Afroze Ahmad believes. She spends as much time as necessary with her patients to determine what really is happening with their symptoms and their concerns. “By really actively listening to what the patient is saying, you can find the clues to their health problems that are sometimes hidden,” she said.
“Perhaps a person has leg pain, and attributes it to bumping his leg, or to overexertion while hiking or working,” Dr. Ahmad said. “But if it’s combined with shortness of breath, it could possibly also indicate a blood clot in the leg. That’s where further follow-up with ultrasound can reveal a treatable problem that might prevent a stroke.”
Las Sendas Cardiology offers state-of-the-art testing equipment, from 24-hour monitoring, ultrasound and stress-testing treadmills, to nuclear stress testing. “Most heart-related tests are non-invasive, so patients need not have anxiety about checking out concerning symptoms,” Dr. Ahmad explained.
“We make ourselves accessible and approachable,” the doctor continued. Office visits are offered at the convenience of her patients. Dr. Ahmad sets early morning and evening appointments when necessary. “We try to accommodate working people and students who can’t always take time off,” she said.
A concern coming to light recently in the media centers on the disturbing stories about young athletes expiring during sporting events. Although not
all circumstances are heart related, Dr. Ahmad suggests young athletes should have an established sports physical performed by their primary care physician each year. “The doctor listens carefully to the heart sounds, and notes if the child is complaining of shortness of breath, gets tired easily, or has bluish-colored nails, indicating low oxygen,” she explained.
If any of these symptoms are present, Dr. Ahmad encourages follow-up testing with ultrasound, EKG or other tests. “We also check on the child’s family history, to see if heart issues are prevalent,” she said.
“Generally, surgery poses risks to the heart, and the question repeatedly surfacing is whether the heart is capable of withstanding the rigors of surgical procedures,” stated Dr. Ahmad. “This is especially important in cases of known heart disease, diabetes, established kidney disease and in individuals who are in a suboptimal physical condition, and do not engage in a programmed regular exercise plan.”
Las Sendas Cardiology also offers cardiac risk assessment for patients undergoing surgery. After a complete evaluation of the patient, Dr. Ahmad communicates, in a timely manner, with both the surgeon and anesthesiologist regarding the heart risks, and how to minimize those risks during and after surgery.
Dr. Ahmad strongly believes a high blood pressure reading should initially lead to investigation of causes for high blood pressure rather than initiation of blood pressure medications. For blood pressure control, she recommends cutting down on salt and alcohol, both of which can elevate the blood pressure. In young women, high blood pressures should always prompt investigation for underlying anemia.
“Some common drugs can aggravate blood pressure readings, including cold medications, Motrin, Aleve and Advil,” said Dr. Ahmad. “So, time should be taken by the medical provider to find the reasons for your condition.”
It may come as a surprise, but treatment of blood pressure is not a cookie-cutter approach, but involves different strokes for different folks.
Dr. Ahmad holds numerous board certifications, including the American Board of Internal Medicine, the American Board of Cardiovascular Disease, the National Board of Echocardiography and the American Society of Nuclear Medicine.
For more information, or to make an appointment, call (480) 361-9949. Las Sendas Cardiology is located at 3514 N. Power Road, Suite 107, at the southwest corner of Power and Thomas roads.