Question 1

What is an interventional cardiologist?

Accepted Answer

A cardiologist with 1–2 years of additional specialized training in performing minimally invasive, catheter-based procedures to treat structural heart diseases and blocked arteries.

Question 2

What is the difference between an angiogram and an angioplasty?

Accepted Answer

An angiogram is a diagnostic imaging test used to locate blockages in your blood vessels, while an angioplasty is the actual procedure performed to open those blockages.

Question 3

What is a heart stent and is it permanent?

Accepted Answer

A stent is a tiny mesh-metal tube inserted into a narrowed artery to hold it open. It remains in the artery permanently to ensure continuous blood flow.

Question 4

What are the warning signs of a heart attack?

Accepted Answer

Common signs include squeezing chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath, pain radiating to the jaw, neck, or left arm, cold sweats, and sudden dizziness.

Question 5

How long is the recovery after an angioplasty?

Accepted Answer

Most patients can return to light daily activities within a week. Heavy lifting and intense exercise must be avoided for several weeks as advised by your doctor.

Question 6

What is TAVR?

Accepted Answer

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation is a minimally invasive procedure used to replace a narrowed aortic valve using a catheter, eliminating the need for open-heart surgery.

Question 7

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Ashwin M. Daware?

Accepted Answer

While self-referrals are accepted for secondary opinions, many insurance providers require a primary care physician's referral to cover specialized cardiac consultations.

Question 8

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

Please bring a valid ID, your insurance card, a complete list of current medications with dosages, and any recent ECG, echo, or blood test reports.