HEART SURGERY

A form of arthritis, gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid, which occurs when the body contains too much purine. Purine is produced in the body naturally, but it is also present in many foods. The extra uric acid forms crystals around joints, especially in the big toes (although other joints are also often affected). It causes pain, which is sometimes intense, swelling, redness, stiffness, or any combination of these symptoms. It is wholly unpleasant, even in small flare-ups, but you can follow some dietary rules to lessen the number of flares and their severity.

Angiography is a broad term used to acquire anatomical and structural images of the vascular system, including the coronary arteries, using X-rays. The imaging procedure provides both anatomical and functional assessment of the heart and its surrounding structures. A Coronary angiogram is the gold standard test to look for blockages in the heart arteries.

Longevity is today's health buzzword. 'Outlive' is a best-selling book by Peter Attia that comes up in conversation with my patients and his comments on cardiac longevity are often quoted in my clinic.