Dr. Christopher Edwards, DO

About Dr. Christopher Edwards, DO

Dr. Christopher Edwards, DO is a Cardiology specialist practicing at our Jacksonville, FL clinic, 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). He is passionate about ensuring optimal cardiovascular health for all of his patients, and he provides comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies for heart and blood vessel diseases. He serves all ages and is currently welcoming new patients. Call (904) 423-0010 to schedule your appointment.

Dr. Edwards is Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiology, and Endovascular Medicine, with a focus on the management of all aspects of general cardiology, peripheral arterial disease, and venous disease. His procedural interests include endovascular arterial intervention, radiofrequency venous ablation, ambulatory phlebectomy, coronary angiography, TEE cardioversion, venous thrombolysis, and more. He brings over 10 years of dedicated experience in Cardiovascular care, a wealth of clinical knowledge, and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He earned his medical degree from Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2010, followed by residency training in Cardiology at Largo Medical Center. He further specialized through fellowship training at Largo Medical Center, deepening his expertise in a specific area of patient health. He is Board Certified in Cardiology by the American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Edwards is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, collaborative decision-making, and providing a supportive, reassuring environment for his patients. He provides consultations primarily in English.

Cardiovascular Conditions Addressed

Dr. Christopher Edwards addresses a wide range of Cardiovascular health concerns, including:

• Pericardial Disease: Pericardial disease refers to conditions affecting the sac-like membrane surrounding your heart.
• Idiopathic Hypotension: If you have unexplained low blood pressure, it might be diagnosed as idiopathic hypotension.
• Heart Attack (STEMI): A heart attack (STEMI) occurs when blood flow to a section of the heart is suddenly cut off by a blocked artery, requiring immediate medical attention.
• Mitral and Aortic Valve Disorder: Mitral and aortic valve disorder refers to problems with the heart's mitral and aortic valves, which can affect blood flow.
• Chronic Venous Embolism Thrombosis: Chronic venous embolism thrombosis is a condition where blood clots remain in the veins for a prolonged period, causing ongoing damage.
• Arteriovenous Fistula: An arteriovenous fistula is an abnormal connection between an artery and a vein.
• Acute Coronary Syndrome: This refers to a range of heart emergencies, including heart attacks, where the heart muscle doesn't get enough oxygen.
• Hypertensive Heart Disease: High blood pressure over a long time can weaken and thicken your heart muscle, leading to hypertensive heart disease.
• Long QT Syndrome: Long QT syndrome is a heart condition that can cause irregular heartbeats, potentially leading to fainting or seizures.
• Acute Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): An acute DVT is a new blood clot in a deep vein, which can cause significant leg pain, swelling, and potentially dangerous complications.
• Pericarditis: Pericarditis is inflammation of the sac surrounding your heart.
• Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm: It's a life-threatening condition involving a weakened and bulging area of the aorta affecting both the thoracic and abdominal sections.

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

• Electrocardiogram (EKG): An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a simple test that measures the electrical activity of your heart to check for rhythm problems and other heart conditions.
• Nuclear Cardiac Imaging: Our nuclear cardiac imaging service uses a safe, non-invasive method to evaluate your heart's function and blood flow.
• Chest CT (incl. Heart and Lungs): This chest CT scan, including your heart and lungs, provides detailed images for evaluating your cardiovascular and respiratory health.
• TCD Bubble Test: This test uses ultrasound to check blood flow in your brain's arteries.
• Angiography: Angiography is used to diagnose and guide treatment for conditions affecting blood vessels, such as heart disease.
• Cardiac Catheterization (incl. Coronary Angiography): Coronary angiography, a type of cardiac catheterization, uses dye and X-rays to visualize the coronary arteries and detect blockages.
• Arterial Catheterization with Robotic Assist: This service uses a robotic system to guide a catheter into your arteries for diagnosis and treatment.
• Chest Pain Evaluation: Our cardiovascular service provides comprehensive evaluations for chest pain.
• Cardiac Catheterization with Robotic Assist: Cardiac catheterization with robotic assist uses a thin, flexible tube and a robot to help doctors visualize and treat heart problems.
• Cardioversion: Cardioversion uses a controlled electric shock to correct an irregular heartbeat, like atrial fibrillation or flutter.
• Cardiac Myocardial Perfusion Imaging: This non-invasive test creates pictures of your heart to check for reduced blood flow, often due to narrowed arteries.
• Stress Test: A stress test helps evaluate your heart's response to exertion.

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

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. Christopher Edwards?

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

Does Dr. Christopher Edwards accept my insurance?

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

What does a heart failure diagnosis mean?

A heart failure diagnosis means your heart isn't pumping as efficiently as it should, but it hasn't stopped working. We'll work together to manage your condition through lifestyle adjustments and medications to improve your heart function, reduce symptoms, and enhance your quality of life.

What is a cardiac stress test?

A cardiac stress test helps us see how your heart performs 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 your heart's function under strain.

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 us detect any arrhythmias that might not be apparent during a standard office EKG.

What is an echocardiogram?

An echocardiogram, or "echo," is a non-invasive ultrasound of your heart. Sound waves create moving pictures, allowing your cardiologist to assess your heart's size, shape, pumping function, and valve health.

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

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