Dr. Andrew Panakos, MD

Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Andrew Panakos provides expert, compassionate care for a range of conditions common in older adults, with a focus on managing symptoms and maintaining function. Common areas of focus include:

• Secondary Hypertension: High blood pressure, or hypertension, can sometimes be a side effect of another illness; this is called secondary hypertension, and its management involves addressing the underlying condition to improve blood pressure and overall quality of life.
• Atrial Flutter: Atrial flutter is a rapid heartbeat originating from the upper chambers of your heart, sometimes causing fatigue or dizziness, but with treatment like medication or a simple procedure, many individuals regain a comfortable heart rhythm and maintain a high quality of life.
• Rheumatic Tricuspid Disease: Rheumatic tricuspid disease is a condition where the tricuspid valve in your heart, responsible for blood flow, is damaged due to a past rheumatic fever infection, potentially causing shortness of breath and fatigue, but it can be managed with medication and lifestyle adjustments to improve your comfort and independence.
• Tricuspid Valve Disease: If your tricuspid valve, one of the heart's four valves, isn't working as it should, it can cause symptoms like swelling in your legs or abdomen, but thankfully, there are various treatment options available to help manage these issues and enhance your overall well-being.
• Aortic Stenosis: Aortic stenosis is a narrowing of the aortic valve in your heart, making it harder for blood to flow efficiently, but with proper management and potentially treatment, you can maintain a good quality of life.
• Supraventricular Tachycardia: A rapid heartbeat originating above the lower chambers of the heart is called SVT, and while it can be concerning, treatments like medication or specialized procedures are available to help regulate the rhythm and prevent future episodes, thus maintaining independence and reducing disruption to your daily life.
• Subacute Endocarditis: This condition, called subacute endocarditis, is a relatively slow-growing infection of the heart's inner lining or valves, and with the right treatment – usually antibiotics – you can feel better and maintain your quality of life.
• Hypertensive Heart without Failure: High blood pressure, over time, can strain your heart muscle. Hypertensive heart disease means this strain is present, but your heart is still functioning well enough to avoid heart failure, thankfully, and can be managed.
• Atrial Septal Defect: Sometimes, people are born with a small hole in their heart between the upper chambers, called an atrial septal defect (ASD); most ASDs don't require treatment and only need regular monitoring by a cardiologist.
• Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA): An abdominal aortic aneurysm is a potentially serious condition where a section of the aorta in your abdomen becomes enlarged, and managing it through regular monitoring or surgery, if necessary, can significantly improve your health and independence.
• Atherosclerosis: Atherosclerosis involves a hardening and narrowing of your arteries, often leading to reduced blood flow. Managing it can help prevent serious health problems, enabling you to live a more fulfilling life.
• Mitral and Aortic Valve Disorder: Mitral and aortic valve disorders affect the heart's valves, preventing them from opening or closing properly, which can be managed with medication, lifestyle changes, or surgery to improve blood flow and your overall health.

This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes. An accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan can only be developed through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional based on your specific health history.