Coronary Artery Disease Specialist

Chinatown Cardiology

Cardiologists & Interventional Cardiologists located in Chinatown, New York, NY & Flushing, NY

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a leading cause of heart attacks in the United States, which is the number one cause of death among both men and women. The doctors at Chinatown Cardiology, with locations in the Chinatown section of New York City and Brooklyn and Flushing, New York, are leading experts in diagnosing and treating CAD.

Coronary Artery Disease Q & A

What Is Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)?

CAD is a disease in which the arteries that supply blood and oxygen to the heart are narrowed, due to a buildup of a waxy substance called plaque. Medically known as atherosclerosis, this buildup restricts blood flow, and as it progresses can create a partial or complete blockage that prevents blood from reaching the heart.

What are the symptoms of CAD?

Many people do not experience symptoms until they suffer a heart attack. However, for those who are symptomatic, angina is a leading sign. Angina is chest pain or discomfort that feels like pressure or squeezing in your chest. Some people also feel angina pain in their shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back.

What are the risk factors for CAD?

While certain risk factors, such as genetics and age, cannot be controlled, most can. These include:

Diabetes
High cholesterol
Smoking
Sedentary lifestyle
Being overweight or obese

What measures can be taken to prevent developing CAD?

To prevent CAD:

Maintain a healthy weight
Eat a heart-healthy diet, that’s low in saturated fats
Exercise for at least 20 minutes a day
Quit smoking
Know your blood pressure and cholesterol numbers

How is CAD diagnosed?

If your doctor suspects you have CAD, he or she may order one or more of the following tests:

Chest X-ray.

Blood tests.

Stress Testing. This test measures how your heart performs under different levels of stress. At Chinatown Cardiology, heart stimulation is either provided by exercising on a treadmill or injection of intravenous vasodilators.The latter is used when medical problems prevent a person from being able to complete the necessary exercise.

An electrocardiogram (EKG). Electrodes are placed on the chest, arms, and legs to interpret electrical activity of the heart. Each heartbeat is accompanied by an electrical signal that spreads from the top of the heart to the bottom. As the signal travels, it causes the heart to contract and pump blood. EKG recordings give the doctor information about how your heart is working.

Echocardiography. This is a simple diagnostic procedure that uses sound waves (echoes) to produce images of your heart, including its size and shape, pumping capacity, location, and extent of any tissue damage.

Cardiac catheterization. This procedure helps determine whether angioplasty or stenting is necessary. A long, thin, flexible tube is inserted into the blood vessel, either in your arm or groin, and passed through to the neck. A contrast dye is injected to make veins and blockages visible on X-ray images.

Office Visit Copays, Coinsurance, and Deductibles

See our list of insurance accepted. If you don't see yours, please call the office, we will be happy to help. Copay is typically a fixed amount associated with an office visit and diagnostic services, depending on your health plan agreement. Copay is collected at the time of service. Coinsurances are based upon the percentage of the allowed amount for a covered service; this portion varies depending on your healthcare contract. Coinsurance applies after deductible is met. Deductibles are predetermined and are also member’s responsibility. Deductible are an annual responsibility, defined by your benefit plan level, deductibles are also collected upfront. If you have any questions regarding your member responsibility please contact the telephone number on the back of insurance card.