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Wednesday, December 31, 2014

ARE THERE EFFECTIVE TREATMENTS FOR THROMBOCYTOPENIA?

If the cause is reversible (like a secondary immune reaction due to a medication (then stopping the medication should help reverse the process.  If the problem is autoimmune, other strategies such as plasmapheresis /immunosuppression might make a significant impact.  These decisions are best managed by a hematologist.


POSTED BY:  Steven Ajluni, MD

Monday, December 29, 2014

NOVI OFFICE, CELEBRATES ONE YEAR!

Western Wayne Heart Group is celebrating 1 year at our Novi location at 10 Mile and Haggerty.  This is minutes from all the express ways.

39500 Ten Mile Road
Suite 103
Novi, MI 48375
Phone: (248) 267-5050
Fax: (248) 267-5051

Please see the link below for directions for our old office in Livonia to the new office in Novi.
http://goo.gl/maps/6h7hq

Our Novi office allows for the same expert standard of testing and care you've come to expect from us, with the benefits of being uploaded directly into Beaumont's Epic within 48 hours.  No mail, no faxes and no need for scanning.  We also have state of the art equipment which provides safer, more accurate testing.

If you have visited our Novi office we hope you are as happy with our it as we are.  Should you have any questions or concerns please don't hesitate to call our Physician Liaison Stacie Batur.  She can help stream line communications between referring physicians, bring cards to your office (if you're a physician), or simply answer a question.  She can be reached at the numbers below:

Office: (248) 267-5050 (x6509); Primarily Mondays and Thursdays


Mobile: (248)765-4466;  Tuesdays and Wednesdays

Wednesday, December 24, 2014

IS VERTIGO A SIGN OF STROKE?

Vertigo is a condition of a whirling disequilibrium, and could be due to inner ear, medication, or brainstem ischemia.  On its own, would be unlikely to be a sign of a stroke, as other nearby nerve cells would also be affected, creating a multi-symptom complex.


POSTED BY:  Steven Ajluni, MD

Monday, December 22, 2014

ARE YOU VACCINATED? WHOOPING COUGH (PERTUSSIS) HAS BEEN A COMMON DIAGNOSIS THIS WINTER.

Whooping cough- known medically as pertussis- is a highly contagious respiratory tract infection.  Although it initially resembles an ordinary cold, whooping cough may eventually turn more serious, particularly in infants.  The best way to prevent it is through vaccinations.  The childhood vaccine is called DTaP.  The whooping cough booster vaccine for adolescents and adults is called Tdap.  Both DTaP and Tdap protect against whooping cough, tetanus and diphtheria.  Recommended vaccine ages are listed below:

Age/Status
Recommendations
Birth through
6 years
DTaP is routinely recommended at 2, 4, and 6 months, at 15 through 18 months, and at 4 through 6 years.
7 through 10 years
Tdap is recommended for children ages 7 through 10 years who are not fully vaccinated (see not 1) against pertussis:
·         Single dose of Tdap for those not fully vaccinated or
·         If additional doses of tetanus and diphtheria toxoid-containing vaccines are needed, then children aged 7 through 10 years should be vaccinated according to the catch-up schedule, with Tdap preferred as the first dose.
11 through 18 years
Tdap is routinely recommend as a single dose for those 11 through 18 years of age with preferred administration at 11 through 12.  If adolescents (13-18 miss getting Tdap at 11-12 yrs. then administer at the next patient encounter or sooner if that adolescent has close contact with infants.
19 years and older
Andy adult 19 yrs. of age or older who has not received a dose of Tdap should get one as soon as feasible- to protect themselves and infants.  This Tdap booster dose can replace one of the 10-year Td booster doses.  Tdap can be administered regardless of interval since the previous Td dose.  Shorter intervals between Tdap and last Td may increase the risk of mild local reactogenicity but may be appropriate if your patient is at high risk for contracting pertussis, such as during an outbreak, or has close contact with infants.
Pregnant women
Pregnant women should get a dose of Tdap during each pregnancy, preferable at 27 through 36 weeks gestation.  By getting Tdap during pregnancy, maternal pertussis antibodies transfer to the newborn, likely providing protection against pertussis in early life, before the baby starts getting DTaP vaccines.  Tdap will also help protect the mother at time of deliver, making her less likely to transmit pertussis to her infant.  It is important that all family members and caregivers of the infant are up-to0date with their pertussis vaccines (DTaP or Tdap, depending on age) before coming into close contact with the infant.
Health Care Personnel 
A single dose of Tdap is recommended for health care personnel who have not previously received Tdap as an adult and have direct patient contact.  Tdap vaccination can protect health care personnel against pertussis and help prevent them from spreading it to their patients.  Priority should be given to vaccinating those who have direct contact with babies younger than 12 months.
Tdap can be administered regardless of interval since the previous Td dose.  However, shorter intervals between Tdap and last Td may increase the risk of mild local reactogenicity.



POSTED BY: Ilana Kutinsky, DO 

Friday, December 19, 2014

WHAT SHOULD AN ELDERLY PERSON DO IF BLOOD PRESSURE SUDDENLY RISES?

If sudden elevation in Blood Pressure causes mental status changes, chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, you might be dealing with a hypertensive crisis and going to the ER is necessary.  Lack of those associated symptoms usually means that doctor-directed BP medications are indicated (often in context of an office visit).


POSTED BY:  Steven Ajluni, MD



Wednesday, December 17, 2014

MORE GREAT TIPS FROM A GREAT PHYSICIAN!! EATING OUT!!!

1.  Most high quality restaurants have healthy options or substitutes on the menu or by request.

2.  It’s important to know your personal risks and what do you need to try to avoid.

3.  Ask for alternatives to high salt, high fat, or high calorie meal.  (Eg-olive oil instead of butter)



4.  Myth:  Everything you eat when dining out is unhealthy for a cardiac or weight loss diet.

5.  To accommodate cardiac risk, ask questions about the menu.  Ask for heart healthy options with low salt and fat

6.  Myth: Heart attacks only occur during stress.  Most occur at rest, and often at night!


7.  Know risks and treat them aggressively, Follow up on your risk factor control, ignorance is NOT bliss

8.  You are aiming for long-term risk reduction.  Lifestyle, follow-up on risk reduction and education


MY FAVORITE:
9.  Focus on the quality of life and not the disease(s) that are ending it!



POSTED BY:  Steven Ajluni, MD


Monday, December 15, 2014

2014 BEAUMONT MICHIGAN HEART GROUP HOLIDAY SCHEDULE

Beaumont Michigan Heart Group closes in observance of all the major holiday's.  The 2014 days are listed below.  We ask, in order to ensure your prescriptions are refilled in time, please call at least one week prior to the holiday.  Calls taken after 10:00 am, the day before closing, are not guaranteed to be called in.

Monday
May 26, 2014
Memorial Day
Friday
July 4, 2014
Independence Day
Monday
September 1, 2014
Labor Day
Thursday
November 27, 2014
Thanksgiving
Friday
November 28, 2014  
Day after Thanksgiving
Wednesday
December 24, 2014
Christmas Eve
Thursday
December 25, 2014
Christmas Day
Wednesday
December 31, 2014
New Year’s Eve (1/2 day)
Thursday
January 1, 2015
New Year’s Day


Thank you:
The Beaumont Michigan Heart Group Staff

Wednesday, December 10, 2014

IS IT TRUE THAT IF YOU SNORE YOU DO NOT DREAM?




Snoring usually equates with obstructive sleep apnea, a condition that has been demonstrated to cause reduced REM (rapid eye movement) sleep.  This is the sleep where dreams occur.



POSTED BY:  Steven Ajluni, MD

Monday, December 8, 2014

OUR BEAUMONT MICHIGAN HEART GROUP HEALTH CARE TEAM

Sometimes you will see one of highly trained extenders.  Below is a list of our physicians and extenders.  For bios and more information please visit our website at mhgpc.com.  Thank you!

PHYSICIANS:
David R. Cragg, MD
Steven L. Almany, MD
Steven C. Ajluni, MD
William H. Devlin, MD
Terry R. Bowers, MD
Brian D. Williamson, MD
Ilana B. Kutinsky, DO
Michael J. Gallagher, MD

EXTENDERS:
Cheryl Vincent, APRN, MSN
Anita Juriga, APRN, MSN
Mariann Graham, RN, BSN
Howard Hollinger, PA-C
Lily Paciorkowski, RN, MSN
Debby Goodall, APRN, ANP-BC
Michelle Forcina, PA-C
Dawn Mitchell, ACNP

Jan Halash, Device Specialist
Amy Douglas, Device Specialist

Tuesday, December 2, 2014

WHAT CAN BE A CAUSE FOR IRREGULAR HEART BEATS?

Ectopic beats (PAC’s and PVC’s) can produce irregular rhythms.  Multiple distinct ectopic atrial foci can produce an irregularly irregular rhythm (wandering atrial pacemaker versus multifocal atrial tachycardia).  The extreme of an infinite number of reentrant atrial conduction loops all with different timing can lead to atrial fibrillation.


POSTED BY:  Steven Ajluni, MD

Monday, December 1, 2014

BEAUMONT MICHIGAN HEART GROUP'S PHYSICIAN LIAISON IS HERE TO HELP YOU

Michigan Heart Group has a Physician Liaison on staff to assist with questions, concerns or problems you, your staff or your patients may have with our office.

Stacie Batur is available Monday through Thursday at (248) 267-5050 (x6509). She is often between two buildings or visiting referring physician offices. If you get her voice mail, please leave a message and she will call you back shortly. If you need to speak to her immediately you can reach her on her cell phone at (248) 765-4466.

Wednesday, November 26, 2014

HOW IS HYPERTENSION CONTROLLED?

Diet, Exercise, and Medication if needed.  Hypertension or (HTN) requires a strong commitment to treat effectively.  Compliance with a weight loss diet, low salt and alcohol, coupled with regular aerobic exercise can help tremendously in keeping blood pressure under control.  For most, this will be necessary, along with medication’s in order to control blood pressure adequately.  Medications without lifestyle changes often just lead to more meds and side effects.  Doing both works much better.


POSTED BY:  Steven Ajluni, MD

Monday, November 24, 2014

ARE YOU VACCINATED? WHOOPING COUGH (PERTUSSIS) HAS BEEN A COMMON DIAGNOSIS THIS WINTER.

Whooping cough- known medically as pertussis- is a highly contagious respiratory tract infection.  Although it initially resembles an ordinary cold, whooping cough may eventually turn more serious, particularly in infants.  The best way to prevent it is through vaccinations.  The childhood vaccine is called DTaP.  The whooping cough booster vaccine for adolescents and adults is called Tdap.  Both DTaP and Tdap protect against whooping cough, tetanus and diphtheria.  Recommended vaccine ages are listed below:

Age/Status
Recommendations
Birth through
6 years
DTaP is routinely recommended at 2, 4, and 6 months, at 15 through 18 months, and at 4 through 6 years.
7 through 10 years
Tdap is recommended for children ages 7 through 10 years who are not fully vaccinated (see not 1) against pertussis:
·         Single dose of Tdap for those not fully vaccinated or
·         If additional doses of tetanus and diphtheria toxoid-containing vaccines are needed, then children aged 7 through 10 years should be vaccinated according to the catch-up schedule, with Tdap preferred as the first dose.
11 through 18 years
Tdap is routinely recommend as a single dose for those 11 through 18 years of age with preferred administration at 11 through 12.  If adolescents (13-18 miss getting Tdap at 11-12 yrs. then administer at the next patient encounter or sooner if that adolescent has close contact with infants.
19 years and older
Andy adult 19 yrs. of age or older who has not received a dose of Tdap should get one as soon as feasible- to protect themselves and infants.  This Tdap booster dose can replace one of the 10-year Td booster doses.  Tdap can be administered regardless of interval since the previous Td dose.  Shorter intervals between Tdap and last Td may increase the risk of mild local reactogenicity but may be appropriate if your patient is at high risk for contracting pertussis, such as during an outbreak, or has close contact with infants.
Pregnant women
Pregnant women should get a dose of Tdap during each pregnancy, preferable at 27 through 36 weeks gestation.  By getting Tdap during pregnancy, maternal pertussis antibodies transfer to the newborn, likely providing protection against pertussis in early life, before the baby starts getting DTaP vaccines.  Tdap will also help protect the mother at time of deliver, making her less likely to transmit pertussis to her infant.  It is important that all family members and caregivers of the infant are up-to0date with their pertussis vaccines (DTaP or Tdap, depending on age) before coming into close contact with the infant.
Health Care Personnel 
A single dose of Tdap is recommended for health care personnel who have not previously received Tdap as an adult and have direct patient contact.  Tdap vaccination can protect health care personnel against pertussis and help prevent them from spreading it to their patients.  Priority should be given to vaccinating those who have direct contact with babies younger than 12 months.
Tdap can be administered regardless of interval since the previous Td dose.  However, shorter intervals between Tdap and last Td may increase the risk of mild local reactogenicity.



POSTED BY: Ilana Kutinsky, DO 

Wednesday, November 19, 2014

WILL ANALGESICS HELP STATIN MUSCLE PAIN?




Coenzyme Q10 is useful for strained muscle aches, analgesics can be used.  Speak to your doctor about what is appropriate for you.



POSTED BY:  Steven Ajluni, MD

Monday, November 17, 2014

MICHIGAN HEART GROUP'S LOCATIONS AND SATELLITE OFFICES

Beaumont Michigan Heart Group has 2 main locations and 2 satellite locations.  Different physicians see patients out of different suits.  

THERE ARE TIMES, when a physician will need to SWITCH SUITES for one reason or another.  It usually has to do with coverage or addition of office time.  You will ALWAYS BE NOTIFIED of this DURING YOUR REMINDER CALL so PLEASE pay close attention to the LOCATION when we call you.  

MAIN CAMPUS:
Beaumont Michigan Heart Group:
4600 Investment Drive, #200
Troy, MI 48098

Steven L. Almany, MD
Steven C. Ajluni, MD
William D. Devlin, MD
Terry R. Bowers, MD
Michael J. Gallagher, MD

Beaumont Michigan Heart Rhythm Group
4550 Investment Drive, #250
Troy, MI 48098

David R. Cragg, MD
Brian D. Williamson, MD
Ilana B. Kutinsky, DO

SATELLITE OFFICES:
Beaumont Western Wayne Heart Group
39500 Ten Mile, #103
Novi, MI 48375

Steven L. Almany, MD


Steven C. Ajluni, MD
William D. Devlin, MD
Ilana B. Kutinsky, DO

Beaumont Michigan Heart Group- Macomb
15959 Hall Road, #304
Macomb, MI 48044

David R. Cragg, MD
Terry R. Bowers, MD
Michael J. Gallagher, MD

Wednesday, November 12, 2014

IS A HEART RATE ALWAYS HIGH IF YOUR HEART IS POUNDING OR CAN IT HAPPEN WHEN IT'S LOW TO NORMAL TOO?

Heavy pounding of the heart relates more to the force of contraction which is governed by the amount of catecholoamines (adrenalin) as well as the volume of blood put out with contraction.  Often times this will lead to a faster heart rate but it doesn’t have to.  An example would be aortic regurgitation wherein the heart is heavily loaded (preload), from backward filling across aortic valve.


POSTED BY:  Steven Ajluni, MD

Monday, November 10, 2014

MEET THE MHG PHYSICIAN EXTENDERS, AN EXTENSION OF YOUR HEART CARE TEAM! THIS MONTH WE RECOGNIZE DEBBIE GOODALL.

The practice is made up of Interventionist (plumbers) and Electrophysiologist (electricians).  The plumbers are located at 4600 Investment Drive, #200, while the Electricians are in the building next door at 4550 Investment Dr., #250.  In addition Michigan Heart Group has two satellite offices to accommodate our out of town patients.  One in Macomb at 15959 Hall Road, #304, Macomb and another in Novi at Ten Mile and Haggerty, 39500 Ten Mile, #103, Novi. Each extender is trained and familiar with both specialties however all but one currently they only see patients at our 2 main locations.

Each month we will be focusing on one extenders achievements, this month we recognize Debbie Goodall.


Debby Goodall, A.P.R.N, A.N.P.-B.C.:  Debby joined Michigan Heart Group in September 2007.  Debby started at Michigan State for undergrad and then continued her education at Oakland University, completing her Bachelors of Science in Nursing and then going on to get a Masters for Adult and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner.  She has worked in some form of Cardiology of the past 15 years.  Debby’s focus is on nutrition and eating the right types of foods.   She has office hours at both Michigan Heart Group on Monday afternoons and Michigan Heart Rhythm Group on Friday afternoons.

OUR EXTENDER TEAM AND WHERE YOU MAY SEE THEM:

Cheryl Vincent, MSN, A.P.R.N: Sees patients at Michigan Heart Rhythm group all day Thursday and Friday.  Also, sees patients at William Beaumont Hospital- Troy, covers Beaumont RO when needed.

Anita Juriga, MSN, A.P.R.N:  Sees patients at Michigan Heart Group all day Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.  Also, sees patients at William Beaumont Hospital- Troy, covers Beaumont RO when needed.

Howard Hollinger, P.A.-C.:  Sees patients at Michigan Heart Group all day Monday and Tuesday.  Also, sees patients at William Beaumont Hospital- Troy, covers Beaumont RO when needed.

Debby Goodall, A.P.R.N, A.N.P.-B.C.:  Sees patients at Michigan Heart Group on Monday afternoons and at Michigan Heart Rhythm Group on Friday afternoons.  Also, sees patients at William Beaumont Hospital- Troy, covers Beaumont RO when needed.

Michelle Forcina, P.A.-C.:  Sees patients at Michigan Heart Rhythm Group all day Mondays and Tuesdays and in the morning on Wednesdays.  Rounds at both William Beaumont Hospital- RO and Troy on the weekends.

Dawn Mitchell, A.C.N.P.:  Sees patients at Michigan Heart Group all day Wednesdays.  Also,  sees patients at William Beaumont Hospital- Royal Oak, covers Beaumont Troy when needed.

Lily Paciorkowski, R.N., MSN:   Sees patients at William Beaumont Hospital- Royal Oak, covers Beaumont Troy when needed.

Mariann Graham, R.N., BSN:  Sees patients at William Beaumont Hospital- Royal Oak, covers Beaumont Troy when needed.

We are very fortunate to have such a great, caring and educated team working with us.  They look forward to meeting you and we hope you look forward to meeting them.

Thank you!
The Beaumont Michigan Heart Group Physicians

Wednesday, November 5, 2014

WILL METOPROLOL HELP PREVENT HEART ATTACKS?

Beta blockers theoretically benefit coronary artery disease by reducing myocardial demand and reducing potential for ischemia and arrhythmia.  This has been demonstrated conclusively with certain beta blockers (eg. Carvedilol).  Other beta blockers, like Metoprolol have not been conclusively shown to reduce mortality and recurrent events, but most regard beta blocker benefits as a class effect.


POSTED BY:  Steven Ajluni, MD

Monday, November 3, 2014

ARE YOU VACCINATED? WHOOPING COUGH (PERTUSSIS) HAS BEEN A COMMON DIAGNOSIS THIS WINTER.

Whooping cough- known medically as pertussis- is a highly contagious respiratory tract infection.  Although it initially resembles an ordinary cold, whooping cough may eventually turn more serious, particularly in infants.  The best way to prevent it is through vaccinations.  The childhood vaccine is called DTaP.  The whooping cough booster vaccine for adolescents and adults is called Tdap.  Both DTaP and Tdap protect against whooping cough, tetanus and diphtheria.  Recommended vaccine ages are listed below:

Age/Status
Recommendations
Birth through
6 years
DTaP is routinely recommended at 2, 4, and 6 months, at 15 through 18 months, and at 4 through 6 years.
7 through 10 years
Tdap is recommended for children ages 7 through 10 years who are not fully vaccinated (see not 1) against pertussis:
·         Single dose of Tdap for those not fully vaccinated or
·         If additional doses of tetanus and diphtheria toxoid-containing vaccines are needed, then children aged 7 through 10 years should be vaccinated according to the catch-up schedule, with Tdap preferred as the first dose.
11 through 18 years
Tdap is routinely recommend as a single dose for those 11 through 18 years of age with preferred administration at 11 through 12.  If adolescents (13-18 miss getting Tdap at 11-12 yrs. then administer at the next patient encounter or sooner if that adolescent has close contact with infants.
19 years and older
Andy adult 19 yrs. of age or older who has not received a dose of Tdap should get one as soon as feasible- to protect themselves and infants.  This Tdap booster dose can replace one of the 10-year Td booster doses.  Tdap can be administered regardless of interval since the previous Td dose.  Shorter intervals between Tdap and last Td may increase the risk of mild local reactogenicity but may be appropriate if your patient is at high risk for contracting pertussis, such as during an outbreak, or has close contact with infants.
Pregnant women
Pregnant women should get a dose of Tdap during each pregnancy, preferable at 27 through 36 weeks gestation.  By getting Tdap during pregnancy, maternal pertussis antibodies transfer to the newborn, likely providing protection against pertussis in early life, before the baby starts getting DTaP vaccines.  Tdap will also help protect the mother at time of deliver, making her less likely to transmit pertussis to her infant.  It is important that all family members and caregivers of the infant are up-to0date with their pertussis vaccines (DTaP or Tdap, depending on age) before coming into close contact with the infant.
Health Care Personnel 
A single dose of Tdap is recommended for health care personnel who have not previously received Tdap as an adult and have direct patient contact.  Tdap vaccination can protect health care personnel against pertussis and help prevent them from spreading it to their patients.  Priority should be given to vaccinating those who have direct contact with babies younger than 12 months.
Tdap can be administered regardless of interval since the previous Td dose.  However, shorter intervals between Tdap and last Td may increase the risk of mild local reactogenicity.



POSTED BY: Ilana Kutinsky, DO 

Wednesday, October 29, 2014

IF EATING 700 CALORIES A DAY AND BURNING 5000 CALORIES BY EXERCISE, HOW MUCH WEIGHT SHOULD A PERSON LOSE IN A DAY?

Based on your questions, a person should lose 1.5 pounds a day.  A pound is 3500 calories.  A simple net balance puts you at -4300 calories per day or about 1.5pounds.  Depending on your baseline weight, fluid intake (fluid constitutes 60% of your baseline weight), the weight loss could be more or less.  Most diets aim for 1-2 pounds per week.  This sounds pretty aggressive and it definitely should be physician supervised.


POSTED BY:  Steven Ajluni, MD

Monday, October 27, 2014

NOVI OFFICE, CELEBRATES ONE YEAR!

Western Wayne Heart Group is celebrating 1 year at our Novi location at 10 Mile and Haggerty.  This is minutes from all the express ways.

39500 Ten Mile Road
Suite 103
Novi, MI 48375
Phone: (248) 267-5050
Fax: (248) 267-5051

Please see the link below for directions for our old office in Livonia to the new office in Novi.
http://goo.gl/maps/6h7hq

Our Novi office allows for the same expert standard of testing and care you've come to expect from us, with the benefits of being uploaded directly into Beaumont's Epic within 48 hours.  No mail, no faxes and no need for scanning.  We also have state of the art equipment which provides safer, more accurate testing.

If you have visited our Novi office we hope you are as happy with our it as we are.  Should you have any questions or concerns please don't hesitate to call our Physician Liaison Stacie Batur.  She can help stream line communications between referring physicians, bring cards to your office (if you're a physician), or simply answer a question.  She can be reached at the numbers below:

Office: (248) 267-5050 (x6509); Primarily Mondays and Thursdays


Mobile: (248)765-4466;  Tuesdays and Wednesdays

Wednesday, October 22, 2014

WHAT COULD BE CAUSING AN ABNORMAL EKG WITH HIGH RESTING HEART BEAT AND LOW BLOOD PRESSURE?

Depends of course on the type of ECG abnormality.  Higher heart rates and lower blood pressure often imply relative low volume in the bloodstream.  Make sure you are hydrated.  If you have a sense of racing heart (palpitations) and light headedness, you should see your doctor for another ECG, possible an echo or check structure and function of heart.  Increased adrenergic (adrenalin) tone can occur if anxious.


POSTED BY:  Steven Ajluni, MD

Monday, October 20, 2014

2014 BEAUMONT MICHIGAN HEART GROUP HOLIDAY SCHEDULE

Beaumont Michigan Heart Group closes in observance of all the major holiday's.  The 2014 days are listed below.  We ask, in order to ensure your prescriptions are refilled in time, please call at least one week prior to the holiday.  Calls taken after 10:00 am, the day before closing, are not guaranteed to be called in.

Monday
May 26, 2014
Memorial Day
Friday
July 4, 2014
Independence Day
Monday
September 1, 2014
Labor Day
Thursday
November 27, 2014
Thanksgiving
Friday
November 28, 2014  
Day after Thanksgiving
Wednesday
December 24, 2014
Christmas Eve
Thursday
December 25, 2014
Christmas Day
Wednesday
December 31, 2014
New Year’s Eve (1/2 day)
Thursday
January 1, 2015
New Year’s Day


Thank you:
The Beaumont Michigan Heart Group Staff

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

MY CHEST IS CONGESTED, SOMETIMES CHEST GETS TIGHT THAT I COUGH A LOT, STUFFY NOSE, CAN'T TASTE. WHAT COULD IT BE?

Heavy amounts of mucous, chest and nasal congestion suggest bronchitis perhaps triggered by allergies or infection.  If mucous is discolored, think infection.  The tightness in the chest is brought on by the work of breathing required to create enough negative pressure to inflate the lungs through this airway congestion.  Typically these are short-lived although if persistent, asthma might explain it.


POSTED BY:  Steven Ajluni, MD

Monday, October 13, 2014

OUR BEAUMONT MICHIGAN HEART GROUP HEALTH CARE TEAM

Sometimes you will see one of highly trained extenders.  Below is a list of our physicians and extenders.  For bios and more information please visit our website at mhgpc.com.  Thank you!

PHYSICIANS:
David R. Cragg, MD
Steven L. Almany, MD
Steven C. Ajluni, MD
William H. Devlin, MD
Terry R. Bowers, MD
Brian D. Williamson, MD
Ilana B. Kutinsky, DO
Michael J. Gallagher, MD

EXTENDERS:
Cheryl Vincent, APRN, MSN
Anita Juriga, APRN, MSN
Mariann Graham, RN, BSN
Howard Hollinger, PA-C
Lily Paciorkowski, RN, MSN
Debby Goodall, APRN, ANP-BC
Michelle Forcina, PA-C
Dawn Mitchell, ACNP

Jan Halash, Device Specialist
Amy Douglas, Device Specialist

Wednesday, October 8, 2014

WHAT IS THE ANATOMY OF RHEUMATIC FEVER?




Acute rheumatic fever involves a host of endotoxin produced from Strep bacteria that acutely affect the body (joints, skin, heart) resulting in widespread symptoms. In the heart this can result in a pancarditis (endocardium, mesocardium, and epicardium), which and set in motion chronic inflammation and scarring in addition to valvular dysfunction.



POSTED BY:  Steven Ajluni, MD

Monday, October 6, 2014

BEAUMONT MICHIGAN HEART GROUP'S PHYSICIAN LIAISON IS HERE TO HELP YOU

Michigan Heart Group has a Physician Liaison on staff to assist with questions, concerns or problems you, your staff or your patients may have with our office.

Stacie Batur is available Monday through Thursday at (248) 267-5050 (x6509). She is often between two buildings or visiting referring physician offices. If you get her voice mail, please leave a message and she will call you back shortly. If you need to speak to her immediately you can reach her on her cell phone at (248) 765-4466.

Wednesday, October 1, 2014

CAN I TAKE FISH OIL SUPPLEMENTS WHILE ON PRINIVIL AND ASPIRIN?

Yes with care.  Using fish oil along with Prinivil and aspirin is usually safe.  But please tell your doctor you’re taking it.  Omega-3 supplements can make your platelets less sticky, which is a good thing in many ways  however, in some people fish oil’s effects along with other medications may lead to decreased clotting or more bruising.  This is why I suggest care until you see how it affects you.


POSTED BY:  Steven Ajluni, MD

Monday, September 29, 2014

MICHIGAN HEART GROUP'S LOCATIONS AND SATELLITE OFFICES

Beaumont Michigan Heart Group has 2 main locations and 2 satellite locations.  Different physicians see patients out of different suits.  

THERE ARE TIMES, when a physician will need to SWITCH SUITES for one reason or another.  It usually has to do with coverage or addition of office time.  You will ALWAYS BE NOTIFIED of this DURING YOUR REMINDER CALL so PLEASE pay close attention to the LOCATION when we call you.  

MAIN CAMPUS:
Beaumont Michigan Heart Group:
4600 Investment Drive, #200
Troy, MI 48098

Steven L. Almany, MD
Steven C. Ajluni, MD
William D. Devlin, MD
Terry R. Bowers, MD
Michael J. Gallagher, MD

Beaumont Michigan Heart Rhythm Group
4550 Investment Drive, #250
Troy, MI 48098

David R. Cragg, MD
Brian D. Williamson, MD
Ilana B. Kutinsky, DO

SATELLITE OFFICES:
Beaumont Western Wayne Heart Group
39500 Ten Mile, #103
Novi, MI 48375

Steven L. Almany, MD


Steven C. Ajluni, MD
William D. Devlin, MD
Ilana B. Kutinsky, DO

Beaumont Michigan Heart Group- Macomb
15959 Hall Road, #304
Macomb, MI 48044

David R. Cragg, MD
Terry R. Bowers, MD
Michael J. Gallagher, MD

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR SYSTOLIC AND DIASTOLIC PRESSURES ARE HIGH?

Elevated systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP)  implies likely need for medication’s to control your BP.  If elevations are borderline high (130-140/80-90), I would suggest checking it at home.  Consider weight loss, in addition to alcohol and salt restrictions to help.

If frequent rechecks still show BP often in excess of 140/90, you will need to start medication and have a physical exam and lab testing done.


POSTED BY:  Steven Ajluni, MD

Monday, September 22, 2014

MEET THE MHG PHYSICIAN EXTENDERS, AN EXTENSION OF YOUR HEART CARE TEAM! THIS MONTH WE RECOGNIZE LILY PACIORKOWSKI

Beaumont Michigan Heart Group would like to introduce you to our physician extenders.  They are a critical part of the Cardiology team at Michigan Heart Group.  The Physician Extenders work hand and hand with the physicians, making decisions on the best treatment options for each patient on a case by case basis.  All of our extenders round on the weekends as well as work in the hospital during the week.  Most of our extenders also have have office hours and we encourage our patients to feel comfortable following up with them in the office.  Our medical decisions are often a team approach that each extender is a part of and they are often at the forefront of each decision that is made.

The practice is made up of Interventionist (plumbers) and Electrophysiologist (electricians).  The plumbers are located at 4600 Investment Drive, #200, while the Electricians are in the building next door at 4550 Investment Dr., #250.  In addition Michigan Heart Group has two satellite offices to accommodate our out of town patients.  One in Macomb at 15959 Hall Road, #304, Macomb and another in Novi at Ten Mile and Haggerty, 39500 Ten Mile, #103, Novi. Each extender is trained and familiar with both specialties however all but one currently they only see patients at our 2 main locations.

Each month we will be focusing on one extenders achievements, this month we recognize Lily Paciorkowski.


Lily Paciorkowski, R.N., MSN:  Lily joined us in April 2006.   Lily is our eyes and ears at the Royal Oak Beaumont Hospital. She does not see patients in the office however if you get admitted at RO Beaumont, Lily will be the one you will most likely see.  She keeps the physicians in the loop of all the comings and goings that happen at RO.  Lily received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Eastern Michigan and her Masters of Science in Nursing for the University of Phoenix.  Lily has over 20 years of cardiac experience and is committed to the high standard of care that Michigan Heart Group expects its extenders to achieve.  Lily can answer any questions or concerns you may have while you are under our care in the hospital.

OUR EXTENDER TEAM AND WHERE YOU MAY SEE THEM:

Cheryl Vincent, MSN, A.P.R.N: Sees patients at Michigan Heart Rhythm group all day Thursday and Friday.  Also, sees patients at William Beaumont Hospital- Troy, covers Beaumont RO when needed.

Anita Juriga, MSN, A.P.R.N:  Sees patients at Michigan Heart Group all day Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.  Also, sees patients at William Beaumont Hospital- Troy, covers Beaumont RO when needed.

Howard Hollinger, P.A.-C.:  Sees patients at Michigan Heart Group all day Monday and Tuesday.  Also, sees patients at William Beaumont Hospital- Troy, covers Beaumont RO when needed.

Debby Goodall, A.P.R.N, A.N.P.-B.C.:  Sees patients at Michigan Heart Group on Monday afternoons and at Michigan Heart Rhythm Group on Friday afternoons.  Also, sees patients at William Beaumont Hospital- Troy, covers Beaumont RO when needed.

Michelle Forcina, P.A.-C.:  Sees patients at Michigan Heart Rhythm Group all day Mondays and Tuesdays and in the morning on Wednesdays.  Rounds at both William Beaumont Hospital- RO and Troy on the weekends.

Dawn Mitchell, A.C.N.P.:  Sees patients at Michigan Heart Group all day Wednesdays.  Also,  sees patients at William Beaumont Hospital- Royal Oak, covers Beaumont Troy when needed.

Lily Paciorkowski, R.N., MSN:   Sees patients at William Beaumont Hospital- Royal Oak, covers Beaumont Troy when needed.

Mariann Graham, R.N., BSN:  Sees patients at William Beaumont Hospital- Royal Oak, covers Beaumont Troy when needed.

We are very fortunate to have such a great, caring and educated team working with us.  They look forward to meeting you and we hope you look forward to meeting them.

Thank you!
The Beaumont Michigan Heart Group Physicians

Wednesday, September 17, 2014

GREAT TIPS FROM A GREAT PHYSICIAN!

1.  Understand your body and know your limits with exercise so as to avoid angina as much a possible

2.  Myth: Coronary disease is only present if chest pain exists

3.  Anginal symptoms may differ from patient to patient, each patient is unique

4.  More than 50% of ischemic spells (inadequate oxygenation of heart tissues) occur without symptoms of chest pain

5.  Myth: Patients with angina should not exercise, they need to exercise carefully

6.  Regularly attempts at exercise along with the right medications help raise the threshold before angina occurs.

7.  Beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, nitrates all improve supply and demand.  Ranexa improves status

8.  Chronic angina treatment requires the right mediation coupled with close follow up.

9.  Central Sleep Apnea (CSA) can be idiopathic due to Cheynes Strokes, Narcotics, Newborn, CPAP exces.


POSTED BY:  Steven Ajluni, MD

Monday, September 15, 2014

NOVI OFFICE, CELEBRATES ONE YEAR!

Western Wayne Heart Group is celebrating 1 year at our Novi location at 10 Mile and Haggerty.  This is minutes from all the express ways.

39500 Ten Mile Road
Suite 103
Novi, MI 48375
Phone: (248) 267-5050
Fax: (248) 267-5051

Please see the link below for directions for our old office in Livonia to the new office in Novi.
http://goo.gl/maps/6h7hq

Our Novi office allows for the same expert standard of testing and care you've come to expect from us, with the benefits of being uploaded directly into Beaumont's Epic within 48 hours.  No mail, no faxes and no need for scanning.  We also have state of the art equipment which provides safer, more accurate testing.

If you have visited our Novi office we hope you are as happy with our it as we are.  Should you have any questions or concerns please don't hesitate to call our Physician Liaison Stacie Batur.  She can help stream line communications between referring physicians, bring cards to your office (if you're a physician), or simply answer a question.  She can be reached at the numbers below:

Office: (248) 267-5050 (x6509); Primarily Mondays and Thursdays


Mobile: (248)765-4466;  Tuesdays and Wednesdays

Wednesday, September 10, 2014

ASTEMIC HEART DISEASE, DOES IT PROGRESS?

Ischemic heart disease implies a progression of atherosclerotic changes in the coronary artery blood supply that results in a deprived state of oxygen delivery to the heart muscle.  It is caused by a progression of inflammatory deposits brought on by proinflammatory risk factors (family history, hypertension, smoking, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia).  Reducing risk factors slows progression.


POSTED BY:  Steven Ajluni, MD

Monday, September 8, 2014

2014 BEAUMONT MICHIGAN HEART GROUP HOLIDAY SCHEDULE

Beaumont Michigan Heart Group closes in observance of all the major holiday's.  The 2014 days are listed below.  We ask, in order to ensure your prescriptions are refilled in time, please call at least one week prior to the holiday.  Calls taken after 10:00 am, the day before closing, are not guaranteed to be called in.

Monday
May 26, 2014
Memorial Day
Friday
July 4, 2014
Independence Day
Monday
September 1, 2014
Labor Day
Thursday
November 27, 2014
Thanksgiving
Friday
November 28, 2014  
Day after Thanksgiving
Wednesday
December 24, 2014
Christmas Eve
Thursday
December 25, 2014
Christmas Day
Wednesday
December 31, 2014
New Year’s Eve (1/2 day)
Thursday
January 1, 2015
New Year’s Day


Thank you:
The Beaumont Michigan Heart Group Staff