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Peripartum Cardiomyopathy

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Peripartum Cardiomyopathy

February 4, 2025

February is Heart Month, a time to raise awareness about heart health. Pregnancy can put extra stress on the heart which can expose existing heart conditions or cause new ones. Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM), also known as postpartum cardiomyopathy, is an uncommon form of heart failure that happens towards the end of pregnancy or in the months following delivery, when no other cause of heart failure can be found.


In PPCM the heart chambers enlarge and the heart muscle weakens. This causes a decrease in the amount of blood the heart pumps with each heartbeat. A weakened heart can cause fatigue and low blood pressure due to less blood flow to the body, and can cause swelling in legs and abdomen due to fluid buildup in organs including the lungs and liver. 


PPCM may be difficult to detect because symptoms of heart failure can mimic those of pregnancy, such as shortness of breath and swelling in the feet and legs. A heart ultrasound, called an echocardiogram, can detect cardiomyopathy by showing that the heart function is weak. Lab tests may also be done to confirm the diagnosis. Women can manage their health to decrease the risk of high blood pressure. Don’t smoke. Eat a well balance diet, avoid alcohol and move daily for exercise and to support a healthy heart. 


If you are expecting, discuss any concerns with your OB/Gyn.   


Find a Physician   https://www.iberiamedicalcenter.com/find-a-physician


Iberia Medical Center Maternal/Child Services

IBERIA MEDICAL CENTER OFFERS CT CALCIUM SCORING SCREENING  

Aug 29, 20242 min read

Score considered predictor of coronary artery disease


Iberia Medical Center is pleased to announce the addition of CT coronary calcium scoring screening to its suite of cardiovascular health services. This advanced screening is designed to assess the risk of coronary artery disease, providing valuable insights into heart health.


CT coronary calcium scoring is a non-invasive imaging technique that measures the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries. The presence of calcium in these arteries is a predictor of atherosclerosis, a condition that can lead to heart disease. By undergoing this screening, individuals can proactively manage their cardiovascular health and work towards preventing heart-related issues.


By utilizing computed tomography (CT) imaging, this non-invasive screening assigns a numerical value, indicating the amount of calcified plaque in the coronary arteries. The higher the score, the greater the likelihood of atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease.


"We are excited to bring state-of-the art CT coronary calcium scoring to our community as part of our ongoing commitment to promoting heart health, preventing cardiovascular disease and eliminating the need to travel for services, said Dionne Viator, CEO at Iberia Medical Center. This screening provides valuable information that can educate individuals to take a proactive approach to heart health. Cash pay pricing of $99 for this screening means we are making affordable options available in our community.”

 

CT calcium scoring screening appointments are available online, through IMC Patient Connect www.iberiamedicalcenter.com/patient-connect or by calling the scheduling department at 337.374.7539. The screening requires a physician’s order.


Iberia Medical Center remains dedicated to delivering high-quality healthcare services and promoting preventive care within the community. Calcium scoring is most recent advancement towards improving the overall cardiovascular health of our community. Last month, the new, state-of-the-art cath lab was opened on the Main Campus.

                                       

 

 

                                               

 

 

                                                                                       

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