Dr. Augustine Agocha, MD

About Dr. Augustine Agocha, MD

Dr. Augustine Agocha, MD is a Cardiology specialist practicing at his clinic in Lutz, FL, dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered Cardiovascular care. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Agocha brings over 30 years of dedicated experience in Cardiovascular care, encompassing a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care for his patients and their families. He earned his medical degree from State University Of New York At Buffalo in 1991, and furthered his expertise through advanced training at leading institutions like Yale University and Deborah Heart & Lung Center. He is Board Certified in Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and Board Certified in Cardiovascular Disease by the same board.

I provide comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies for heart and blood vessel diseases, ensuring optimal cardiovascular health for my patients. My focus extends to all ages. As a fellowship-trained cardiologist specializing in the management of advanced heart failure, heart function devices, and heart transplant, I recognize the profound impact heart failure has on the entire body. Dr. Agocha understands that listening and understanding his patients is key, caring for the whole person, not just the heart. He is here to put his whole heart into healing yours. He is currently welcoming new patients; please call (754) 255-6596 to schedule. Dr. Augustine Agocha provides consultations primarily in English.

Cardiovascular Conditions Addressed

Dr. Augustine Agocha addresses a wide range of Cardiovascular health concerns, including:

• Rheumatic Aortic Valve Disorders: Rheumatic fever, if left untreated, can cause scarring and inflammation of the aortic valve, impairing its function.
• Hypertension: High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, puts extra strain on your blood vessels and heart.
• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein, often in the leg, potentially causing pain, swelling, and redness.
• Acute Coronary Syndrome: Acute coronary syndrome is a group of conditions caused by reduced blood flow to the heart.
• Mitral Valve Regurgitation: Blood leaks backward through your mitral valve, a heart valve between two chambers, causing a condition known as mitral valve regurgitation.
• Atherosclerosis: Atherosclerosis is a disease where a fatty substance called plaque forms inside artery walls, potentially leading to heart attack or stroke.
• Heart Attack (NSTEMI): Unlike a complete blockage, an NSTEMI heart attack involves a partial blockage of a heart artery, leading to reduced blood and oxygen supply to the heart muscle.
• Atrial Fibrillation: An irregular and rapid heartbeat, atrial fibrillation affects the heart's rhythm and can increase the risk of stroke and other serious health issues.
• Aneurysm of Heart: An aneurysm of the heart is a bulge or weakening in the wall of a heart chamber or a major blood vessel connected to the heart.
• Aortic Dissection: Aortic dissection occurs when a tear in the aorta causes blood to separate the layers of the artery wall, potentially leading to life-threatening complications.
• Mitral Valve Disease: The mitral valve, located between the left atrium and ventricle, can develop diseases that disrupt normal heart function and require medical attention.
• Hypotension: Hypotension is when your blood pressure is lower than normal.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Augustine Agocha 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. Augustine Agocha offers a range of services to support your Patient's health and well-being, such as:

• Electrocardiogram (EKG): Your doctor may order an EKG to detect abnormalities in your heart rhythm, such as irregular heartbeats or signs of a heart attack.
• Tilt_Testing: Tilt table testing is a procedure that monitors your heart rate and blood pressure while slowly changing your body position to see if you have a condition called neurally mediated syncope.
• Arrhythmia Screening: Arrhythmia screening uses various methods to assess your heart's electrical activity and identify any rhythm disturbances.
• Vascular Duplex Ultrasonography and Plethysmography: Vascular Duplex Ultrasonography and Plethysmography help doctors visualize blood vessels and measure blood flow, aiding in the diagnosis of circulatory issues.
• Cardiac Myocardial Perfusion Imaging: A cardiac myocardial perfusion imaging scan uses radioactive tracers to assess blood flow to your heart muscle, helping detect blockages.
• Structural Heart Disease Evaluations and Treatment: If you have a heart condition related to the physical structure of your heart, this covers its diagnosis and treatment.
• HeartAware Online Risk Screening: This online HeartAware screening helps you understand your heart health and potential needs for preventive care.
• Cardiac MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) of Heart or Chest: A cardiac MRI scan provides doctors with clear images of your heart to help diagnose heart conditions.
• Coronary Angiogram: A coronary angiogram is a minimally invasive procedure to visualize the arteries supplying blood to your heart muscle.
• Cardiovascular Diagnostic Test: These tests provide important information about your heart's function and identify potential problems.
• Cardiovascular Stress Test: This test assesses your heart's response to physical exertion by tracking its rhythm and blood flow.
• Cholesterol Screening: Get your cholesterol levels checked to help manage your heart health.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Augustine Agocha. 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. Augustine Agocha:

What is a Cardiologist?

A cardiologist is a medical doctor specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of heart and blood vessel diseases. They are experts in conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and high blood pressure.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Augustine Agocha?

Your first visit with Dr. Agocha will involve a detailed discussion of your symptoms, risk factors, and family history. A physical exam and electrocardiogram (EKG) are standard, and further testing, such as an echocardiogram or stress test, may be recommended depending on your individual needs.

Does Dr. Augustine Agocha accept my insurance?

Dr. Agocha's office accepts a variety of insurance plans. To confirm your specific coverage for consultations and procedures, please call the office directly with your insurance information.

Does Dr. Augustine Agocha perform bypass surgery (CABG)?

Dr. Agocha, 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.

Why do I need to wear a Holter or event monitor?

A Holter or event monitor is a portable EKG device worn for one or more days to record your heart's rhythm during normal daily activities. This helps detect any arrhythmias that might not show up during a quick office EKG.

How does Dr. Augustine Agocha treat high blood pressure (hypertension)?

Dr. Agocha employs a comprehensive approach to managing hypertension, including lifestyle modifications like diet, exercise, and stress reduction, along with prescribing appropriate medications. The goal is to achieve and maintain healthy blood pressure levels to prevent future cardiovascular problems.

What is a cardiac stress test?

A cardiac stress test evaluates how your heart functions during physical activity. It involves walking on a treadmill or riding a stationary bike while connected to an EKG machine. This helps diagnose coronary artery disease and assess heart function under stress.

What does a heart failure diagnosis mean?

A heart failure diagnosis means your heart isn't pumping blood as efficiently as it should. We'll work together to manage this with lifestyle changes and medications to improve your heart function, reduce symptoms, and enhance your quality of life.