ROCKLAND COUNTY, N.Y. -- For most of its history, the treatment of heart disease has largely been reactionary. Doctors were often only able to treat patients after a cardiac episode had taken place, usually after considerable damage had already occurred. However, thanks to new technology, doctors are now able to identify potential problems in patients years before symptoms present ...

ROCKLAND COUNTY, N.Y. -- There's a lot of myths and misconception surrounding heart attacks and cardiac health."Chest pain is the only indicator of a heart attack," "Cardiac issues are for those over 50 and don't affect young people," and "There's nothing I can do, my genes have already determined my overall hearth health," are just a few commonly held ...

ROCKLAND COUNTY, N.Y. -- As winter's chill sets in, pneumonia can trigger life-threatening side effects for patients across Rockland County.“Pneumonia, an infection of the lung tissue, can be caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi," said Dr. David Hodes, a pulmonologist at Highland Medical, P.C. in West Nyack, N.Y. "Older adults and people with chronic diseases, including COPD, ...

NYACK, N.Y. -- Upon receiving an Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis, many people assume treatment options are simply unavailable. However, according to Dr. Andrew Erian, a neurologist at Highland Medical P.C. Rockland Neurological Associates in West Nyack, there are several ways to minimize the disorder's debilitating side effects and slow the disease's progression.“There are things we can ...

NYACK, N.Y. -- Nobody likes getting old. However, by taking the right preventative steps and adopting simple lifestyle changes, much can be done to improve the chance of living a long, healthy life.As people age, recognizing that preventive screening exams are necessary is the first step. "Every day in my practice, I meet people who take much better care of their car than they do ...

Stress can cause more than just aggravation and mental discomfort. Chronic stress can take a toll on the heart and is shown to promote dangerous conditions such as high blood pressure, smoking, physical inactivity and overeating. As Highland Medical celebrates Stress Awareness Month this April, they explain stress' effects and how to improve overall health. “Stress can increase the ...

For those suffering from asthma and struggling to control their breathing, leading an active life is a real possibility thanks to the array of medications and treatments available today.“The goal recommended by asthma care guidelines is for every person to be able to go about their daily activities without asthma symptoms,” said Dr. Michael Akerman, a pulmonologist with Highland ...

NYACK, N.Y. -- When planning gifts this holiday season, think healthy. Staying in shape doesn't have to be a chore; in fact, there are many fun, creative ways to promote health and fitness.“Anything that gets someone moving is good,” said Dr. Howard Feldfogel, of Highland Medical, P.C., Clarkstown Medical Associates and the director of the Department of Medicine at Nyack Hospital. “The ...

NYACK, N.Y. -- Diabetic nerve damage, or neuropathy, is a common and serious complication of diabetes, most often affecting the feet. However, the side effect isn't a necessary burden, and can often be prevented or slowed through the control of blood sugar.“Diabetic neuropathy is most common in people who have had diabetes for 15 to 20 years, or those with poorly controlled diabetes,” ...

With National LGBTQ Health Awareness Week here, there hasn’t been a better time to consider the importance of establishing quality medical care. And what type of doctors do people see most often? If you think about it, the answer is obvious: a primary care physician. Finding the right provider is especially crucial when it comes to this medical generalist.Think of a primary care doctor ...