Heart

A weak heart (heart failure)

Heart failure does not mean the heart has stopped. It is a syndrome in which the heart cannot pump or fill efficiently, so the body does not get the blood flow it needs and fluid backs up.

Book a cardiology consultation Call (305) 249-5666

What it can feel like

Shortness of breath at rest or with light activity
Swelling in the ankles, feet, or legs
Unusual fatigue
Palpitations, skipped beats, or a racing heartbeat

Call 911 for severe shortness of breath, chest pain, or fainting.

Why it happens

Heart failure is usually the result of another problem that has strained the heart over time. Chronic high blood pressure thickens and stiffens the heart muscle. Blocked heart arteries, valve disease, and rhythm problems such as atrial fibrillation can all contribute.

Finding and treating the cause is a large part of the care.

How we check it

A first visit usually includes a detailed history, physical exam, EKG, and often an echocardiogram — a heart ultrasound that shows the heart’s structure and pump function. Blood tests and other studies are added when they will change the plan.

Leg swelling is not always the heart. The same visit can sort out whether it is coming from the heart, the kidneys, or the leg veins.

Treatment

We provide long-term medical management and procedural treatment for heart failure. In general, care combines medication, attention to salt and fluid, treating the underlying cause, and regular follow-up so medicines can be adjusted.

Your plan is built at the consultation around your symptoms, your other conditions, and your goals. You leave with a written, plain-language plan.

Medicare and most insurance plans accepted — we confirm your coverage before the visit. See the plans we accept.

Questions about heart failure

What should I bring to my first visit?

Please bring a photo ID, your insurance card, a list of current medications and dosages, any prior cardiovascular test results or imaging (on disc if possible), and a list of questions or concerns you’d like to discuss with Dr. Martinez-Clark.

What if I need to be admitted to a hospital?

Most care is outpatient. For cases requiring hospital admission, Dr. Martinez-Clark has attending privileges at HCA Florida Mercy Hospital and Jackson Memorial.

Can a family member come with me?

Yes, and we encourage it. Visits can be held in English, Spanish, or Haitian Creole.

Short of breath or swelling up? Let us look at your heart.

Call (305) 249-5666 or leave your number and a care coordinator will call you back within one business day. We verify your insurance before your visit. Most new patients are seen within 5–7 business days.

Book a cardiology consultation