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Dr. Kemba Baker Black, MD, FAAP is a pediatrician in Houston, TX specializing in general pediatrics. She graduated from University of Texas Medical Branch School of Medicine in 2004 and has 20 years of experience. Dr. Kemba Baker Black, MD, FAAP is affiliated with Kelsey-Seybold Clinic.
13105 Wortham Center Drive
Houston, TX 77065
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. Kemba Baker Black, MD, FAAP graduated from University of Texas Medical Branch School of Medicine in 2004. She completed residency at Duke University Medical Center. She is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics - Pediatrics and has a state license in Texas.
Medical School: University of Texas Medical Branch School of Medicine (2004)
Residency: Duke University Medical Center (2007)
Board Certification: American Board of Pediatrics - Pediatrics
Licensed In: Texas
Dr. Kemba Baker Black, MD, FAAP is associated with these hospitals and organizations:
Dr. Kemba Baker Black, MD, FAAP has an exceptional overall rating with an average of 4.88 out of 5 stars based on 105 ratings. We collect ratings and reviews of Dr. Kemba Baker Black, MD, FAAP from all over the web to help you find the right in Houston, TX.
Dr. Kemba Black's specialty is general pediatrics. Her areas of expertise include sinusitis (sinus inflammation), tonsilitis, and heart problems. She is professionally affiliated with Kelsey-Seybold Clinic. Before completing her residency at Duke University Medical Center, Dr. Black attended medical school at the University of Texas Medical Branch School of Medicine. According to Doctor.com, she is currently accepting new patients at her office in Houston, TX.
