Dr. Jessica L. Bivens, DO, MA is a cardiologist in Akron, OH specializing in cardiology (heart disease), pediatric cardiology and adult cardiology. She graduated from Midwestern University, Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Jessica L. Bivens, DO, MA is affiliated with Mercy Health, Akron Children's Hospital, Aultman Health System, Mercy Health - Allen Hospital and Akron Children's Pediatric Cardiology, Akron.
Heart Problems
The heart is one of the most important organs in the body. This smooth muscle expands and contracts rhythmically an entire lifetime, pumping blood to the lungs and then to every other cell in the body. When heart problems occur, it becomes difficult for the body to get the nutrients and oxygen it needs via the blood. So while there are a variety of illnesses and disorders that affect the heart, most of them cause weakness, exhaustion and shortness of breath. The most common heart conditions include heart disease, angina, arrhythmia, and valve disorders.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States for both men and women. This includes coronary artery disease, heart attacks, congestive heart failure, and congenital heart disease. Some conditions, such as genetics, cannot be controlled. But there are many other things one can do to lower their risk for heart disease. Controlling high blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing or stopping smoking, exercising more and losing weight if needed, and eating a diet low in sodium can all protect the heart.
Angina is a squeezing type of chest pain that happens when the muscles around the heart don't get enough oxygen. It can be regular or infrequent. Usually, angina is caused by coronary heart disease. However, not all chest pain is angina. Chest pain can also be caused by a lung infection or panic attack, for example, so it is important to have any sudden pain checked.
Arrhythmia is the word for when the heart beats too fast, too slow, or irregularly with skipped beats. It can feel frightening, and depending on the type it can be dangerous, but in most cases arrhythmia is not serious and can be treated. It is very common, especially in older adults.
Heart valve problems can happen in any one of the the heart's four valves that keep blood flowing where it needs to go. Babies can be born with problems in their heart valves, or valves can be damaged by infections. The valves can stiffen and become less mobile, or they can stop closing properly and 'leak' when the heart beats. Valve problems can usually be repaired surgically.
Dr. Jessica L. Bivens, DO, MA graduated from Midwestern University, Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed residency at Nationwide Children's Hospital. She is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics (Pediatric Cardiology) and has a state license in Ohio.
Medical School: Midwestern University, Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine
Residency: Nationwide Children's Hospital
Board Certification: American Board of Pediatrics (Pediatric Cardiology)
Licensed In: Ohio
Dr. Jessica L. Bivens, DO, MA is associated with these hospitals and organizations:
Dr. Jessica L. Bivens, DO, MA has an exceptional overall rating with an average of 4.93 out of 5 stars based on 14 ratings. We collect ratings and reviews of Dr. Jessica L. Bivens, DO, MA from all over the web to help you find the right in Akron, OH.
Dr. Jessica Bivens' specialties are adult cardiology and pediatric cardiology. She practices in North Canton, OH, Akron, OH, and Marietta, OH. After attending Midwestern University, Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine for medical school, Dr. Bivens completed her residency training at Nationwide Children's Hospital. Areas of particular interest for Dr. Bivens include heart problems and palliative care. Patient ratings for Dr. Bivens average 5.0 stars (out of 5). Her hospital/clinic affiliations include Akron Children's Hospital, Aultman Health System, and Mercy Health. She has an open panel in Akron, OH according to Yext.