expert type icon EXPERT

Larry Altschul

Cardiologist

Dr. Larry Altschul is a top Cardiologist in West Islip, . With a passion for the field and an unwavering commitment to their specialty, Dr. Larry Altschul is an expert in changing the lives of their patients for the better. Through their designated cause and expertise in the field, Dr. Larry Altschul is a prime example of a true leader in healthcare. As a leader and expert in their field, Dr. Larry Altschul is passionate about enhancing patient quality of life. They embody the values of communication, safety, and trust when dealing directly with patients. In West Islip, New York, Dr. Larry Altschul is a true asset to their field and dedicated to the profession of medicine.
Larry Altschul
  • West Islip, New York
  • State University of New York School of Medicine at Buffalo
  • Accepting new patients

Stress test?

There are many potential reasons for a "blunted HR response to exercise". Most are benign (such as a conditioned heart as in active or athletic individuals) or underlying medications READ MORE
There are many potential reasons for a "blunted HR response to exercise". Most are benign (such as a conditioned heart as in active or athletic individuals) or underlying medications that slow the pulse (such as the Metoprolol you are taking). However it can also be associated with underlying heart problems and significant coronary artery disease. You need to discuss this further with your cardiologist who would know your background and risk factors the best.

Is physical therapy good after a heart attack?

Yes. Studies have shown that 3 months of supervised and monitored cardiac rehab improves long-term outcomes after a heart attack.

Are you awake when a heart stent is inserted?

Yes, generally patients are awake for stenting. Although patients with extreme anxiety are sometimes given mild sedation.

What medications are used for arrhythmia?

There is no one answer to this question. There are so many different types of arrhythmias. Some need certain medications, some need devices implanted while most need no treatment READ MORE
There is no one answer to this question. There are so many different types of arrhythmias. Some need certain medications, some need devices implanted while most need no treatment at all. I don't know which one you have.

How long are you in the hospital after a heart transplant?

There is no one answer to this question. There are so many variables not the least of which are your other medical problems and the standards set forth by your surgeon and the READ MORE
There is no one answer to this question. There are so many variables not the least of which are your other medical problems and the standards set forth by your surgeon and the transplant service. This is a question you should direct toward your transplant team.

Does heart transplant reduce life expectancy?

On the contrary. A heart transplant, if successful, prolongs the life of someone with severe end-stage heart disease. Without it, statistics show he would have a >50% chance of READ MORE
On the contrary. A heart transplant, if successful, prolongs the life of someone with severe end-stage heart disease. Without it, statistics show he would have a >50% chance of dying within one year and a >80% of dying within 2 years.

What diet is best for tachycardia?

There is no "special" diet for"tachycardia". It would be the same as any heart-healthy diet and would apply to everyone. Tachycardia is nonspecific. It just means "fast heart rate" READ MORE
There is no "special" diet for"tachycardia". It would be the same as any heart-healthy diet and would apply to everyone. Tachycardia is nonspecific. It just means "fast heart rate" of which there are many types, some of which require special treatments. I do not know which type you have to comment on this further.

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Can palpitations damage my heart?

Generally, they are benign but there are all types of palpitations and a few are serious. You should see your cardiologist and get checked out.

Do you have to stay on high blood pressure medication for life?

Most people do. However, some can come off meds if they lose weight and exercise regularly. Either way, ideal weight, and exercise will drop the BP at least allowing you to take READ MORE
Most people do. However, some can come off meds if they lose weight and exercise regularly. Either way, ideal weight, and exercise will drop the BP at least allowing you to take fewer medications.

Can you exercise if you have arrhythmia?

The term "arrhythmia" is a generic term in cardiology and can refer to many different types of rhythm disturbance. Most are benign and have no restrictions while others are more READ MORE
The term "arrhythmia" is a generic term in cardiology and can refer to many different types of rhythm disturbance. Most are benign and have no restrictions while others are more serious. I cannot answer your question without knowing what type of "arrhythmia" you have. You should also ask your cardiologist whom i assume knows you well.

Pulse rate question?

No, unless you are symptomatic such as dizziness or fainting.

What is causing my health problems?

There is no way one can determine what is causing your current symptoms without further testing (and a knowledge of your other "health issues"). The differential diagnosis includes READ MORE
There is no way one can determine what is causing your current symptoms without further testing (and a knowledge of your other "health issues"). The differential diagnosis includes hormonal problems (i.e., overactive thyroid, etc.), infections, autoimmune diseases (there are many), drug use or anxiety/stress. Basic testing should include: EKG, CXR, urinalysis, CBC, CMP, sed rate, ANA, thyroid functions...to name just a few. Further testing would be dependent on results of these tests.

Severe heartburn?

Since the discomfort is severe and ongoing, you should get to an ER for an immediate evaluation. It is most likely gastrointestinal, however, rarely cardiac symptoms may be similar. READ MORE
Since the discomfort is severe and ongoing, you should get to an ER for an immediate evaluation. It is most likely gastrointestinal, however, rarely cardiac symptoms may be similar.

Heart attack?

There are many possible causes for your symptoms ranging from musculoskeletal pain, neuropathic discomfort ("pinched nerve"), gall bladder symptoms, gastrointestinal symptoms and READ MORE
There are many possible causes for your symptoms ranging from musculoskeletal pain, neuropathic discomfort ("pinched nerve"), gall bladder symptoms, gastrointestinal symptoms and last, but not least, cardiac symptoms. Your symptoms are not typical of a cardiac origin and in a 38 y.o. without risk factors, a cardiac etiology would be less likely. You would need a good physical exam and some testing to narrow it down.

Can I take a beta blocker with thera flu?

Yes, you can take them together.

Are there any natural alternatives to Plavix?

These natural supplements are safe. However, they are not as effective in treating heart disease as the other "blood thinners." Having said that, unless there are specific problems, READ MORE
These natural supplements are safe. However, they are not as effective in treating heart disease as the other "blood thinners." Having said that, unless there are specific problems, most bypass patients only need either aspirin or Plavix, but not both.

Did I have a stroke?

You should see a neurologist immediately. If you don't know one, see your own MD ASAP who will refer you to one or set up a CT scan of your head.

How should I treat burning chest pain?

There are many possible causes. You must see your primary care physician today for a complete exam and EKG. 

My recent EKG?

It is hard for me to advise without knowing more about your symptoms and medical history and performing a complete physical exam. I would have to presume that your doctor, after READ MORE
It is hard for me to advise without knowing more about your symptoms and medical history and performing a complete physical exam. I would have to presume that your doctor, after examining you and listening to your symptoms, felt that there was no immediate concern and that it can wait several weeks. As a side, the (partial) EKG you sent looks normal.

I have a heart-related question?

There is still a lot we are learning about Covid, or should I say "Long Covid" (symptoms that can linger after the infection is gone). With respect to the heart, a rare long term READ MORE
There is still a lot we are learning about Covid, or should I say "Long Covid" (symptoms that can linger after the infection is gone). With respect to the heart, a rare long term problem could be a "myocarditis" or inflammation of the heart, seen rarely but mostly in the young. The symptoms are generally shortness of breath and fatigue but may include chest pain. Having said that, the timing of your symptoms doesn't exactly fit in that you had your covid a year ago. However, maybe you should see a cardiologist and have a simple test called an Echocardiogram (an ultrasound picture of the heart) which can easily rule this out. If there is still any doubt your doctor may order a cardiac MRI. Most likely though (and you may not want to hear this), your symptoms may turn out to be GI (and/or stress) as suggested by your family.