Dr. Christopher Wilson, DO

About Dr. Christopher Wilson, DO

Dr. Christopher Wilson, DO is a Cardiology specialist practicing at HCA Florida Heart Institute - Northside in St. Petersburg, FL. He is deeply committed to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered Cardiovascular care, registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). I provide comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies for heart and blood vessel diseases, ensuring optimal cardiovascular health for my patients. I serve all ages and am currently welcoming new patients. Please call (239) 946-0015 to schedule an appointment. This physician is accepting telehealth visits.

With over 15 years of dedicated experience in Cardiovascular care, Dr. Wilson brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He earned his medical degree from the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2006, completing an internship and residency training in Cardiology at Northside Hospital and the Tampa Bay Heart Institute, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of all ages. He further honed his expertise with a fellowship in Cardiovascular Medicine at the same institution, focusing on adult general cardiology, trans-esophageal and 2-D echocardiography, and diagnostic nuclear cardiology. He's Board Certified in Cardiology and Internal Medicine by the American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine. Originally from Long Island, NY, Dr. Wilson is a general and invasive/non-interventional cardiologist with special interests in heart failure treatment and prevention, as well as cardiac disease prevention. He is also a member of the American Osteopathic Association (AOA), frequently providing educational programs and lectures for healthcare professionals and actively involved in community outreach. Dr. Wilson provides consultations primarily in English.

Cardiovascular Conditions Addressed

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

• Rheumatic Mitral Stenosis: Rheumatic mitral stenosis is a narrowing of the mitral valve in your heart caused by rheumatic fever.
• Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Coronary artery disease develops when fatty deposits restrict blood flow to your heart, causing symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath.
• Nonrheumatic Tricuspid Disease: Tricuspid valve disease, not related to rheumatic fever, involves malfunction of the valve separating the heart's upper and lower right chambers.
• Constrictive Pericarditis: Constrictive pericarditis is a condition where the sac around your heart becomes thickened and stiff, hindering its ability to pump blood efficiently.
• Atypical Atrial Flutter: Atypical atrial flutter is an irregular heartbeat originating in the heart's upper chambers that doesn't follow the typical pattern seen in atrial flutter.
• Arrhythmias: An arrhythmia is a problem with the electrical signals that control your heart's rhythm.
• Hypertension: Hypertension means your blood pressure is higher than it should be, increasing your risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.
• Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO): A PFO is a flap-like opening between the two upper chambers of the heart that may not close completely after birth.
• Heart Valve Disorders: Problems with the heart's valves, such as stenosis or regurgitation, can cause shortness of breath, chest pain, and fatigue.
• Aortic Stenosis: Aortic stenosis is a heart valve disorder characterized by a narrowing of the aortic valve, leading to decreased blood flow from the heart to the body.
• Tricuspid Valve Disease: Tricuspid valve disease refers to problems with the valve in your heart that controls blood flow between the heart's right atrium and right ventricle.
• Heart Attack (Acute Myocardial Infarction): Heart attacks are caused by a sudden blockage in a coronary artery, depriving the heart of oxygen.

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

• Electrocardiogram (EKG): An EKG is a painless test that uses small sensors on your skin to record your heart's electrical signals, providing a visual representation of your heartbeat.
• Thrombolysis: Thrombolysis uses special medications to break up dangerous blood clots, restoring blood flow to your heart or brain.
• Cardiac MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) of Heart or Chest: This non-invasive imaging test uses magnetic fields to create pictures of your heart and surrounding chest area, helping to diagnose a range of cardiac issues.
• Cardiac Catheterization (incl. Coronary Angiography): Cardiac catheterization helps doctors assess the health of your heart and blood vessels, often revealing blockages or other problems.
• Ablation for Cardiac Arrhythmias: This procedure uses heat or freezing to eliminate areas of the heart that trigger abnormal heart rhythms.
• Tilt_Testing: This test involves lying on a specialized table that changes angle to assess how your heart and circulation react to changes in posture, helping diagnose conditions like vasovagal syncope.
• Cardiac Electrophysiology: It involves tests and procedures to identify and correct irregular heartbeats, like palpitations or arrhythmias.
• Cholesterol Management: Effective cholesterol management helps prevent heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular problems.
• Chest CT (incl. Heart and Lungs): This service provides a detailed X-ray image of your chest, heart, and lungs.
• Cardiac Catheterization with Robotic Assist: Using robotic technology, doctors can access and treat areas within the heart via cardiac catheterization more effectively and less invasively.
• Cardiovascular Stress Test: During this test, you'll exercise while your heart is monitored to identify potential problems with blood flow.
• Vascular Duplex Ultrasonography and Plethysmography: A painless procedure, Vascular Duplex Ultrasonography and Plethysmography employs ultrasound and plethysmography to evaluate blood vessel health and identify potential blockages.

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

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 Wilson?

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

Does Dr. Christopher Wilson accept my insurance?

Dr. Wilson's 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 is an echocardiogram?

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

I was diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation (AFib). What are the treatment options?

Treatment for Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) focuses on controlling your heart rate, restoring a regular rhythm, and preventing blood clots. Options include medications, cardioversion procedures, and advanced techniques like catheter ablation. The best approach is determined by your individual situation and discussed with Dr. Wilson.

What is a cardiac stress test?

A cardiac stress test evaluates how well 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.

Does Dr. Christopher Wilson perform bypass surgery (CABG)?

Dr. Wilson, as a cardiologist, diagnoses and treats coronary artery disease, often with non-surgical procedures like stenting. If bypass surgery (CABG) is required, he will refer you to a qualified cardiothoracic surgeon and work collaboratively with them throughout your care.

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

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