Dr. Alexander Johnson, MD

About Dr. Alexander Johnson, MD

Dr. Alexander Johnson, MD is a Cardiology specializing in comprehensive cardiovascular care at Bayfront Cardiovascular Associates in St Petersburg, FL. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centered care, registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). He meticulously addresses the full spectrum of heart and blood vessel conditions, from diagnosis and treatment to proactive preventative strategies, ensuring optimal cardiovascular health for patients of all ages. Dr. Johnson is currently welcoming new patients and encourages them to call (727) 380-2620 to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Johnson's extensive training and experience provide a robust foundation for his practice. An imported Floridian, born in Barbados, he earned his medical degree from the Medical University of South Carolina, following which he completed an internship and residency in internal medicine, and a fellowship in cardiovascular disease, further specializing in the medical care of all ages. His post-doctoral research at the Gazes Cardiac Research Institute focused on left ventricular remodeling, demonstrating a commitment to cutting-edge research. He is Board Certified in Cardiovascular Disease by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and he maintains a strong commitment to evidence-based medicine. Dr. Johnson's approach emphasizes patient education and collaborative decision-making, creating a supportive environment for optimal patient outcomes. He provides consultations primarily in English.

Dr. Alexander Johnson is a compassionate and skilled cardiologist dedicated to delivering exceptional care. A veteran of the USAF, Dr. Johnson brings a unique perspective and dedication to his practice, coupled with extensive academic and research experience. His commitment to his patients extends beyond the clinical setting, encompassing proactive strategies for preventative care. He is committed to providing a supportive, reassuring environment, ensuring that patients feel comfortable, informed, and empowered in their healthcare journey. He is eager to welcome new patients to Bayfront Cardiovascular Associates.

Cardiovascular Conditions Addressed

Dr. Alexander Johnson addresses a wide range of Cardiovascular health concerns, including:

• Nonrheumatic Tricuspid Disease: Issues with the tricuspid valve (the one between the two right-side chambers of your heart) that are not caused by rheumatic fever are classified as nonrheumatic tricuspid disease.
• Heart Disease: Heart disease is a broad term for illnesses involving the heart muscle, valves, or blood vessels.
• Aneurysm: An aneurysm is a bulge in a blood vessel that can weaken it and potentially rupture.
• Chronic Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Chronic DVT is a condition where a blood clot remains in a deep vein for an extended period, potentially leading to serious complications.
• Systolic Heart Failure: In systolic heart failure, the heart struggles to pump blood with enough power, reducing the blood flow to the body.
• Atherosclerosis of Aorta: Plaque buildup in the aorta, called atherosclerosis, can restrict blood flow throughout your body.
• Aortic Ectasia: Aortic ectasia is a widening of the aorta, the body's largest artery.
• Aneurysm of Heart: The heart can develop an aneurysm, a balloon-like swelling in the heart wall, which poses a risk of rupture and serious consequences.
• Unstable Angina: With unstable angina, the pain in your chest can be severe, occur at rest, or worsen rapidly, signaling a possible heart attack.
• Chronic Pulmonary Heart Diseases (incl. Pulmonary Hypertension): Chronic lung diseases can cause the heart to work harder and sometimes result in a condition called chronic pulmonary heart disease, including increased pulmonary artery pressure.
• First Degree Heart Block: It's a slow conduction of the electrical impulse through the heart, resulting in a slightly prolonged time between your heartbeat's components.
• Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): CAD is a condition where your heart's arteries become narrowed or blocked, often due to a buildup of cholesterol and other substances.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Alexander Johnson addresses and is for informational purposes only; it does not constitute medical advice. The range of conditions a Cardiology manages is broad, and this list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive understanding of how he can assist with your Patient's specific health needs or to discuss any particular symptoms, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Cardiovascular Services Provided

Dr. Alexander Johnson offers a range of services to support your Patient's health and well-being, such as:

• Coronary Angiogram: Coronary angiography is a heart procedure that uses X-rays and a special dye to assess the health of your heart's blood vessels and identify any narrowing or blockages.
• Dobutamine Thallium Stress Test: This test combines a medicine that stresses your heart (dobutamine) with a special scan (thallium) to check for reduced blood flow to the heart muscle.
• Pacemaker Insertion or Replacement: Pacemaker insertion involves a minor surgical procedure to place a device that helps maintain a steady heart rhythm.
• Arrhythmia Screening: An arrhythmia screening involves tests to see if your heart beats too fast, too slow, or irregularly.
• HeartAware Online Risk Screening: Use the HeartAware online screening to identify potential risk factors for heart problems.
• Thoracentesis: Thoracentesis is a procedure to remove fluid buildup around your lungs.
• TCD Bubble Test: This test uses ultrasound to check blood flow in the arteries in your neck.
• Ablation for Cardiac Arrhythmias: This procedure uses heat or freezing to eliminate areas of the heart that trigger abnormal heart rhythms.
• Cardioverter-Defibrillator or Pacemaker Insertion: This service provides implantation of devices to help regulate your heart rhythm.
• Cardioversion: For certain types of rapid or irregular heartbeats, cardioversion is a treatment that uses an electric shock to restore a normal rhythm.
• Chest CT (incl. Heart and Lungs): This service provides a detailed X-ray picture of your chest, heart, and lungs.
• Cardiac Imaging: Cardiac imaging provides detailed images of your heart to help diagnose problems such as blockages or heart valve issues.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Alexander Johnson. Service availability can change and not all services listed may be appropriate or offered to every patient. The scope of services provided by a Cardiology can vary. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services or to discuss your Patient's specific healthcare needs, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Some specialized procedures or advanced diagnostic tests may require referral to a subspecialist.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Cardiology in Florida and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Florida Board of Medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Alexander Johnson:

What is a Cardiologist?

Dr. Johnson and our team are cardiologists, medical doctors specializing in the heart and blood vessels. We diagnose, treat, and prevent conditions like coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and high blood pressure. Our expertise ensures comprehensive cardiovascular care.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Alexander Johnson?

Your first visit with Dr. Johnson will involve a detailed review of your symptoms, risk factors, and family history. A physical exam will follow, often including an electrocardiogram (EKG). Further testing, such as an echocardiogram or stress test, may be recommended based on your individual needs.

Does Dr. Alexander Johnson accept my insurance?

Insurance plan acceptance can vary. Please call our office directly with your insurance information to confirm coverage for both consultations and any potential procedures.

I have a family history of heart disease. How can I be proactive?

We commend your proactive approach. A preventive cardiology consultation with Dr. Johnson involves a thorough risk assessment, potentially including advanced lipid testing, and the creation of a personalized plan for diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes to help minimize your future risk.

What is a stent and why would I need one?

A stent is a tiny, expandable mesh tube placed inside a narrowed or blocked coronary artery to prop the artery open, restore blood flow to the heart muscle, and relieve symptoms like chest pain.

Does Dr. Alexander Johnson perform bypass surgery (CABG)?

Dr. Johnson, as a cardiologist, diagnoses coronary artery disease and performs non-surgical interventions like stenting. If bypass surgery (CABG) is necessary, he will refer you to a qualified cardiothoracic surgeon and work closely with them throughout your care.

What is a cardiac catheterization or angiogram?

A cardiac catheterization, or angiogram, is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat heart conditions. A thin tube (catheter) is guided to the heart to measure pressures and visualize the coronary arteries with dye, allowing identification of blockages.

How does Dr. Alexander Johnson treat heart valve disease?

Dr. Johnson's approach to heart valve disease varies depending on the severity. Mild cases may be managed with regular monitoring and medication. More severe cases require close collaboration with a cardiac surgeon or interventional cardiologist for procedures like valve repair or replacement.