expert type icon EXPERT

Mary B. Callahan, D.O.

Cardiologist

Dr. Mary Callahan is a cardiologist practicing in Sandwich, MA. Dr. Callahan specializes in diagnosing, monitoring, and treating diseases or conditions of the heart and blood vessels and the cardiovascular system. These conditions include heart attacks, heart murmurs, coronary heart disease, and hypertension. Dr. Callahan also practices preventative medicine, helping patients maintain a heart-healthy life.
32 years Experience
Mary B. Callahan, D.O.
  • Sandwich, MA
  • Univ of New England, Coll of Osteo Med, Biddeford Me
  • Accepting new patients

Is it safe to go swimming 4 weeks after a heart attack?

The easy answer is, it depends, on the type of heart attack, how he was treated, and if by swimming you mean just going into the water for a few minutes or swimming in the ocean READ MORE
The easy answer is, it depends, on the type of heart attack, how he was treated, and if by swimming you mean just going into the water for a few minutes or swimming in the ocean or lake for significantly longer. Usually, I recommend a stress test and starting cardiac rehab before resuming physical activity or work, but many people will start a walking program at an easy pace on flat surface. I would recommend checking with his doctors before starting and go slow with any activity.

Dr. Callahan

Chronic Chest Pain

I would recommend further testing to try to determine the cause of you pain, including non cardiac causes of the pain. However if your stress test was normal then it is less likely READ MORE
I would recommend further testing to try to determine the cause of you pain, including non cardiac causes of the pain. However if your stress test was normal then it is less likely that it is due to a significant blockage in coronary artery. Consider other causes of chest pain

Why is my father passing blood in his urine after his bypass?

Not sure, would get checked for a urinary infection since during the surgery a catheter was placed in his bladder

After having a bypass can I get blockages again?

The blockages in your coronary arteries are still there, the surgery bypasses these blockages, so after surgery you can have worsening of the existing blockages, or you can form READ MORE
The blockages in your coronary arteries are still there, the surgery bypasses these blockages, so after surgery you can have worsening of the existing blockages, or you can form new blockages. This is why it is important to treat your risk factors-lower lipids, blood pressure and treat diabetes to lower your risk.

Is it safe to go to the gym 6 months after coronary artery bypass surgery?

You should complete a cardiac rehab program before returning to the gym. Also most gyms want you cleared before retuning to the gym, since there are some exercises that can cause READ MORE
You should complete a cardiac rehab program before returning to the gym. Also most gyms want you cleared before retuning to the gym, since there are some exercises that can cause discomfort or even damage if done improperly

What should you do if someone starts complaining of chest pain?

First, have the person sit down and rest. If the pain resolves, then they should see their physician. If the pain continues or worsens, then you should call 911 and activate emergency READ MORE
First, have the person sit down and rest. If the pain resolves, then they should see their physician. If the pain continues or worsens, then you should call 911 and activate emergency services.

Can a blood transfusion cause disruption in my heart rate?

More than likely you are anemic, or low hemoglobin, and that will cause your heart rate to increase. So, not directly related to the transfusion.

Dr. Callahan

What is the difference between a bypass surgery and an angioplasty?

They are very different procedures, angioplasty involves putting stents in the arteries to open the blockages, usually during a brief hospital stay. Bypass surgery involves open READ MORE
They are very different procedures, angioplasty involves putting stents in the arteries to open the blockages, usually during a brief hospital stay. Bypass surgery involves open heart surgery and placing vein or artery segments to bypass the blockages. Also, this results in a longer hospital stay. Both procedures will improve symptoms, but only bypass surgery has been shown to improve survival.

Abdominal aneurysm prevention

There are not usually any warning signs. One way to prevent aortic aneurysms is not smoking. If you have risk factors you PCP can order an ultrasound to screen for aortic aneurysm. Dr READ MORE
There are not usually any warning signs. One way to prevent aortic aneurysms is not smoking. If you have risk factors you PCP can order an ultrasound to screen for aortic aneurysm.

Dr Callahan

Is chest heaviness related to my past heart issues?

Possibly, you should see your cardiologist for further evaluation.

Dr Callahan

Increasing resting heart rate, what is it?

There are many reasons for increasing heart rate which include anxiety, anemia or an arrhythmia. Would recommend following with your primary physician for further evaluation. Dr READ MORE
There are many reasons for increasing heart rate which include anxiety, anemia or an arrhythmia. Would recommend following with your primary physician for further evaluation.

Dr Callahan