expert type icon EXPERT

Gino N. Vitiello

Cardiologist

Dr. Gino Vitiello is a cardiologist practicing in Miami, Florida. Dr. Vitiello specializes in diagnosing, monitoring, and treating diseases or conditions of the heart and blood vessels and the cardiovascular system. These conditions include heart attacks, heart murmurs, coronary heart disease, and hypertension. Dr. Vitiello also practices preventative medicine, helping patients maintain a heart-healthy life.
Gino N. Vitiello
  • Miami, Florida
  • Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine
  • Accepting new patients

Could menopause increase the risk of a heart attack?

Yes as hormonal changes can lead to heart disease, in addition to risk factors that you may have . You may want to do a basic cardiac workup , no harm and a lot of good. Also I READ MORE
Yes as hormonal changes can lead to heart disease, in addition to risk factors that you may have . You may want to do a basic cardiac workup , no harm and a lot of good. Also I would check your hormones.

Are there any supplements recommended after bypass surgery?

Yes iron( but check levels first) check basic labs, also any antioxidants, i like L Arginine 1,000-3,000mg day also Aspirin, and make sure your sugars are under control < 100 fasting READ MORE
Yes iron( but check levels first) check basic labs, also any antioxidants, i like L Arginine 1,000-3,000mg day also Aspirin, and make sure your sugars are under control < 100 fasting and ldl cholesterol < 70

What are the symptoms of a weak heart?

Shortness of breath, weight gain, fainting, chest pain, just to write a few.

What could be the side effects of a pacemaker?

Pacemaker rhythm not capturing or pacing ( weakness and low blood pressure) , also wire fracture, infection, and fluid around the heart , recommend checking the pacer with the READ MORE
Pacemaker rhythm not capturing or pacing ( weakness and low blood pressure) , also wire fracture, infection, and fluid around the heart , recommend checking the pacer with the company that inserted it.

How can diabetes affect my heart?

Many ways platelets in arteries (not good, inflammation of arteries, increase in clots, stress to arteries and more are very bad risk factors)

My ECG shows sinus arrhythmia and T wave abnormality (V4, V5, V6), should I be worried?

No but depends on age and history, usually its your nerves you may be hyperventilating

What is a right bundle branch block? Is it something serious?

No usually but could be heart disease but most likely pulmonary issues or totally normal

I can feel my heart pounding time and again. Could it be a symptom of atrial fibrillation?

It can be, but most likely premature atrial contractions, all of which can be benign. A patient needs blood tests and an echo, and a good history and physical, easy to figure out. READ MORE
It can be, but most likely premature atrial contractions, all of which can be benign. A patient needs blood tests and an echo, and a good history and physical, easy to figure out.

Are there any risks involved in a bypass surgery with a major blockage?

Yes, failure and other complications, but can be life saving.

Can regular intake of protein shakes cause a strain on my heart?

Yes, depends on the ingredients, must know.

How long does it take for one to recover after a heart attack?

It can take 6 -12 months to recover, all depends on hibernating myocardium.

I am experiencing tachycardia after having heavy bleeding during my menstrual cycle. What should I do?

Hi, tachardia with menstruation is quite common. It could be due to anemia, (blood loss), or electrolyte issues (kidney, liver). I would consider an echocardiogram of the heart, READ MORE
Hi, tachardia with menstruation is quite common. It could be due to anemia, (blood loss), or electrolyte issues (kidney, liver). I would consider an echocardiogram of the heart, and maybe a gyn eval for fibroids. I most likely would go in that order, also check hormones, especially if you're menopausal, a great idea.

Can frequent consumption of ibuprofen increase the risk of a heart attack?

Yes, usually over 800 mg/day as they block enzymes that help prevent vascular blockage, very correct I would avoid large doses on a regular basis.

What is the treatment for heartbeat irregularities?

Ok, easy an event monitor, and a echocardiogram of the heart, which should look at heart function, valves, and any shunt (holes) in the heart as they occur again, sometimes a Transesophal READ MORE
Ok, easy an event monitor, and a echocardiogram of the heart, which should look at heart function, valves, and any shunt (holes) in the heart as they occur again, sometimes a Transesophal (tee) may need to be done. I would work that up asap.

What is the difference between an angioplasty and a by-pass surgery?

Angioplasty is inserting a wire and stent into an artery, may go home the next day, but patients must be appropriate candidates. Bypass is opening the chest and harvesting arteries READ MORE
Angioplasty is inserting a wire and stent into an artery, may go home the next day, but patients must be appropriate candidates. Bypass is opening the chest and harvesting arteries and veins from your body, much longer and complicated, but in certain patients a better treatment option.

My husband is complaining of chest pain. Is it a cardiac problem or is it acidity?

Sounds like acid as cardiac pain comes and goes, associated with activity, has special character, ekg changes, blood test issues, a history and physical can determine. Sounds like READ MORE
Sounds like acid as cardiac pain comes and goes, associated with activity, has special character, ekg changes, blood test issues, a history and physical can determine. Sounds like reflux, but would see a cardiologist.

My mother stopped taking Ecosprin all of a sudden. Could this cause any complications for her?

Yes, she needs to take it post surgery, it's very important ( most important).

Is Ecosprin a medication that is long-term for those who have had bypass surgery?

Ecosprin is an extended relase asprin thus side efffects may last longer, problem is asprin products are the most important treatment for heart disease. May consider regular asprin READ MORE
Ecosprin is an extended relase asprin thus side efffects may last longer, problem is asprin products are the most important treatment for heart disease. May consider regular asprin 81 mg per day. Also, they do have asprin with antacid, it all depends on the exact side effect.

Could kidney disease cause cardiac issues?

Yes, it can as renal failure can alter coagulation systems which can lead to heart disease. The answer is yes.