expert type icon EXPERT

John Bibawy, M.D.

Cardiac Electrophysiologist

Dr. John N. Bibawy is a Board Certified Cardiac Electrophysiologist. He treats patients with cardiac arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation and SVT as well as patients with slow heart rates or with heart failure requiring defibrillator therapy. His focus is on the medical and procedural management of arrhythmia's, pacemaker and defibrillator placement and programming, high risk laser lead extraction, as well as advanced left and right sided cardiac ablations such as SVT's, Atrial fibrillation, Typical and Atypical Flutter and Ventricular Tachycardia. 
6 years Experience
John Bibawy, M.D.
  • Boynton Beach, FL
  • Northwell Health
  • Accepting new patients

What are normal ECG values?

There are many resources online that you can use to assess your ECG but I do recommend leaving it up to a specialist to have your results properly interpreted.

How is a hole in a heart usually diagnosed?

Typically, this is assessed using an ultrasound of the heart called an echocardiogram. Transthoracic echocardiogram is usually obtained first, but to be able to fully assess the READ MORE
Typically, this is assessed using an ultrasound of the heart called an echocardiogram. Transthoracic echocardiogram is usually obtained first, but to be able to fully assess the possible "hole" or medically termed a septal defect, a transesophageal echocardiogram is recommended.

Can I go to the gym 2 months after coronary artery bypass surgery?

Typically, cardiovascular physical therapy is recommended post CABG surgery. Please consult with your surgeon for further recommendations.

Should I use medications for blocked heart arteries?

As cardiologists, we do recommend specific medications to help treat coronary artery disease. These have many benefits and compliance is required for long term treatment.

What activities to avoid after a heart transplant?

There are many considerations post operatively to address. This is best reviewed with the transplant surgeon and heart failure specialist.

Are high blood pressure medications safe?

Nonpharmacological approaches to BP control include weight loss and exercise.

How soon after stent surgery can I exercise?

Generally speaking, alcohol should be abstained from as per the newer cardiovascular recommendations.

Can exercises treat high blood pressure?

Yes, resistance training and weight loss is known to decrease BP.

When can I start weight lifting after a stent?

Depending on the location of the stent, we usually recommend exercise limitations for 2 weeks to 1 month. Please consult with your interventional cardiologist.

Should I visit ER for blood pressure?

If your blood pressure is very high or you are experiencing blurred vision, chest pain, headache or any other abnormalities, going to the ER is recommended. Consultation with your READ MORE
If your blood pressure is very high or you are experiencing blurred vision, chest pain, headache or any other abnormalities, going to the ER is recommended. Consultation with your primary care doctor is important.

Does a 50% blocked artery need a stent?

Stents are recommended for arteries that are blocked greater than 70%.

Is low blood pressure serious?

Low blood pressure is not serious unless you are experiencing symptoms. Typical symptoms of low blood pressure include dizziness and fatigue.

What diet to avoid with heart arrhythmia?

Avoiding caffeine and energy drinks may help decrease the recurrence or severity of your arrhythmia. Seeking out expert consultation may help alleviate or cure your arrhythmia. READ MORE
Avoiding caffeine and energy drinks may help decrease the recurrence or severity of your arrhythmia. Seeking out expert consultation may help alleviate or cure your arrhythmia.

Are there any medications for arrhythmia?

Yes, depending on the type of arrhythmia you have, there are different antiarrhythmic drugs that we use to treat it.

Should I change my diet after a heart stent?

Yes, adopting a heart healthy diet is best to help decrease risk of further atherosclerosis. The American Heart Association recommends a mediterranean diet.

Can a fast heartbeat cause any issues?

Depends on how fast your heart rate is. If you have high heart rates ( > 130 BPM) for continuous periods of time you can develop heart failure.

How long is the hospital stay after angioplasty?

Typically its 24 hours unless your physician would like to monitor you longer.

What foods to avoid with heart palpitations?

Palpitations can be caused by many different reasons. Typically, we would recommend cutting back on caffeine and energy drinks.

Can heart arrhythmia be managed with a healthy diet?

Not typically no, usually medications or ablation therapy are recommended to help treat your arrhythmia. Avoiding caffeine and energy drinks may help.

Should I take medications for heart arrhythmia?

You can but these medications are typically prescribed by a cardiac arrhythmia specialist, an electrophysiologist.