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Specializing in matters of the heart

Because healthy hearts love longer and we don't want you to miss a beat.

Advanced Cardiac Care in Santa Cruz County

At Dominican Hospital, our nationally recognized heart and vascular program offers the most comprehensive cardiac services in the Monterey Bay area. With advanced diagnostics, innovative treatment options, and comprehensive rehabilitation services, our team is dedicated to caring for your heart. From routine checkups to lifesaving procedures, we provide exceptional care with expertise and compassion. 

Heart and Vascular Conditions We Treat

We understand that a heart or vascular condition diagnosis can be overwhelming. That's why we offer comprehensive support, addressing both your emotional and physical well-being. Our dedicated team provides compassionate care and expert guidance every step of the way. We treat a wide range of conditions including Atrial Fibrillation (AFib), Heart Disease, Mitral Valve Disease, Congestive Heart Failure, Hypertension (High Blood Pressure), Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) and more.

Cardiac Treatment Options

Our comprehensive range of cardiac interventions and procedures includes minimally invasive, robotic-assisted surgery, and comprehensive surgical services. Our state-of-the-art hybrid operating suite allows radiologists, cardiologists, and heart surgeons to collaborate seamlessly in the same room, simultaneously. This advanced technology enables enhanced treatment of complex heart diseases, potentially leading to shorter surgeries, reduced hospital stays, lower infection risks, faster recovery, and fewer follow-up procedures.
 

Treatments for Abnormal Heartbeats (arrhythmias)

  • Pacemakers
  • Implantable Cardiac Defibrillators
  • Cardioversion
  • Implantable Cardiac Monitors

Advanced Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory Procedures

  • Coronary artery stenting and balloon angioplasty
  • Transcatheter Valve Repair for aortic valve (TAVR) and MitraClip valve procedures (TEER)
  • Endovascular Aortic Repair (EVAR)
  • Revascularization of peripheral vessels
  • Intravascular Lithotripsy

Minimally Invasive Robotic-Assisted Surgeries
We provide advanced techniques that do not require opening the chest or legs.

Comprehensive Cardiac Surgeries

  • Video: Coronary bypass (open-heart surgery)
  • Chest or lung procedures including aortic aneurysm repairs
  • Surgical repair or replacement of the heart valves (mitral & aortic)
  • Surgical ablation of irregular heart rhythms

Emergency Cardiac Care

We understand that every second counts when it comes to a cardiac emergency. That's why our Cardiovascular Intervention Lab is always ready, staffed with highly specialized personnel experienced in diagnosing and treating complex heart conditions. As a designated STEMI (heart attack) Receiving Center for Santa Cruz County and a Joint Commission-certified Chest Pain Center, we provide expert care. Through our partnership with local EMS, our Emergency Room team receives patient information from the field, allowing the cardiac care team to be prepared upon the patient's arrival. This seamless coordination ensures that you receive the fastest and most effective treatment possible. 

  • New state of the art hybrid cardiac surgical services suite
  • Emergent diagnosis and treatment of ST Elevated Myocardial Infarct (STEMI)
  • Emergent cardiac stent and balloon angioplasty
  • Treatment of life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias
  • Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump
  • Extra Corporeal Life Support
How to lower blood pressure with healthy foods

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Be heart smart. Know your numbers.

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a serious condition that increases the risk of stroke and heart disease. As we age, blood pressure may rise gradually, though this varies from person to person.

If you’re wondering how to lower blood pressure, there are several lifestyle changes you can make to help manage it. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and eating a diet low in sodium are all key factors. Limiting alcohol and avoiding smoking can also play a role in managing blood pressure, but other factors contribute as well.

One of the most important things you can do is to “know your numbers” by regularly checking and tracking your blood pressure. This helps you monitor your progress and spot any concerning changes early on.

Watch our videos: Know Your NumbersWhy It's Important to Track Blood PressureHow to Check Blood Pressure at Home

Additional Resources: What Do Blood Pressure Readings Mean?How to Manage High Blood PressureCommon High Blood Pressure Myths

Know the early signs of a heart attack

Heart attacks happen frequently—about once every 40 seconds in the U.S. Many people think heart attacks happen suddenly, but often they start slowly with mild pain or discomfort. Heart attack symptoms can vary widely and can sometimes be subtle, so it’s important to be aware of any unusual signs for you personally. Here are some signs to watch for:

  • Chest discomfort: This is the most common sign, often feeling like pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center of the chest. It may last more than a few minutes or come and go.
  • Discomfort in other areas: Pain or discomfort can spread to the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
  • Shortness of breath: This can happen with or without chest discomfort.
  • Other signs may include:
    • Breaking out in a cold sweat
    • Nausea
    • Feeling light headed

While chest pain is common, heart attacks can also occur without chest pain or with few to no symptoms at all, though this is less common. This information is for general knowledge and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified health care professional for diagnosis and treatment. If you notice any of these symptoms, even if you're unsure it's a heart attack, seek medical help right away. Quick action can save lives, including your own.

Resources: Heart Attack Symptoms: Know the Gender DifferencesWarning Signs of a Heart Attack

heart attack signs and symptoms

Keep your heart in rhythm

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common type of irregular heartbeat, causing the heart to beat rapidly and irregularly. By 2030, it's estimated that 12.1 million Americans will have AFib.

Symptoms can include palpitations (a fluttering or racing feeling in the chest), shortness of breath, dizziness, lightheadedness, and weakness. Some individuals with AFib may not experience noticeable symptoms, but even without symptoms, AFib can lead to serious health complications, such as stroke, blood clots, and heart failure. Fortunately, there are various treatment options available, including medications and minimally invasive procedures, depending on the severity of the condition and individual health factors. Treatment should always be discussed with your doctor to determine the best approach. With proper care, many people with AFib can lead active and healthy lives.

Resources: Who is at risk for AFib?Is AFib Curable?AFib SymptomsAFib Treatments, Types of AFib

Stress management techniques for a healthy heart

Stress is something everyone faces, regardless of age. However, when stress persists over time, it can negatively impact your health, especially your heart. Elevated stress levels can raise blood pressure and increase heart rate, putting extra strain on your heart. Finding ways to reduce stress is important for heart health. Exercise, hobbies, spending time with loved ones, and avoiding harmful habits may help manage stress for some people, but may not be effective for everyone. If stress becomes chronic or leads to mental health challenges, seeking advice from your doctor or a mental health professional is recommended.

Resources: Stress and the Heart: How Are They Connected?Stress Management Video TipStress and Heart Health3 Tips to Manage StressUnderstanding How Stress Affects the Body

the link between mental health an physical health

Although heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S.,
80 percent of heart disease and stroke is preventable.




Prevention

Be heart smart. Watch our video series on heart disease and discover preventive measures, treatment options, and the significance of what it means to “know your numbers”. 
 

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common condition that can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. Early detection and proper management are crucial for maintaining your cardiovascular health. Click here to learn about risk factors, treatment options and effective strategies for managing your blood pressure. 

Education

Dare to C.A.R.E.: Dare to C.A.R.E. is a free heart and vascular disease education and screening program provided as a cooperative effort through Dominican Hospital and Dominican Hospital Foundation. Learn More

 

Dominican’s Cardiac Risk Reduction program is nationally certified by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation and offers the following services:

  • Monitored exercise therapy
  • Cardiac Nutrition Classes and support groups
  • Education on stress management, smoking cessation, medications, exercise, weight management and nutrition
  • Lifestyle guidance to help you reach your health goals
  • Heart Connections support group

Heart Health Classes

Our community education and Lifestyle Management programs offer multiple classes to keep your heart healthy. Click the links below to view classes and register. 

Details and Directions

Dominican Hospital Cardiac Care is located at 1555 Soquel Drive, Santa Cruz.