The 20 Best Heart Failure Doctors Near Me in Lufkin, TX

Find the Top Heart Failure Experts and Specialists

The 20 Best Heart Failure Doctors near Lufkin, TX

Last Updated: 02/22/2026

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MediFind found 29 doctor with experience in Heart Failure near Lufkin, TX. Of these, 26 are Experienced and 3 are Advanced.

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29 providers found
    Ravinder R. Bachireddy
    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology | Interventional Cardiology
    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology | Interventional Cardiology

    Baylor St. Luke's Medical Group Memorial Heart Institute Of East Texas

    310 Gaslight Blvd, 
    Lufkin, TX 
     (1.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Ravinder Bachireddy is a Cardiologist and an Interventional Cardiologist in Lufkin, Texas. Dr. Bachireddy is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Metabolic Syndrome, Angina, Hypertensive Heart Disease, and Venous Insufficiency. Dr. Bachireddy is currently accepting new patients.

    Musa Khan
    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology | Interventional Cardiology
    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology | Interventional Cardiology

    Baylor St. Luke's Medical Group Memorial Heart Institute Of East Texas

    310 Gaslight Blvd, 
    Lufkin, TX 
     (1.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Dr. Khan has experience in developing and establishing Interventional Cardiology programs, he serves as medical director of cardiac cath labs and actively participates in various medical staff functions.Presently, Dr. Khan serves on the board of directors of POET. He is the chairman of Critical Care Committee, and is a member of Physician leadership group and the MEC committee. Dr. Khan has experience in large practice setup and management with special interest in electronic medical records and practice management software.Specialty:Cardiovascular DiseaseInterventional CardiologyInternal MedicineEchocardiographyBoard Certifications:Board Certified in Cardiovascular Disease (A.B.I.M.)Board Certified in Interventional Cardiology (A.B.I.M.)Board Certified in Echocardiography (N.B.E.)Board Certified in Internal Medicine (A.B.I.M.)Professional Fellowships:Fellow of American College of Cardiology (FACC)Fellow of American College of Chest Physicians (FCCP)Fellow of the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (FSCAI)Hospitals:CHI St. Luke’s Health-Memorial SystemWoodland Heights Medical Center, Lufkin, TXAcademic Background:Undergraduate Education: The Children’s Education CenterGraduate Education: The Ship-Owners College, Honors: Physics, Chemistry & EnglishM.B.: B.S. Dow Medical College,M.R.C.P., Royal College of PhysiciansBaylor College of Medicine – Cardiovascular DiseasePenn State Hershey Medical Center –Residency Internal MedicineDow University of Health SciencesProfessional Associations:American Medical AssociationAmerican College of PhysiciansAmerican Heart AssociationTexas Medical AssociationAmerican College of CardiologyPOET. Dr. Khan is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Angina, Coronary Heart Disease, Atherosclerosis, Hypertensive Heart Disease, and Pacemaker Implantation.

    Venkata R. Kovvali
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology | Interventional Cardiology
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology | Interventional Cardiology

    Baylor St. Luke's Medical Group Memorial Heart Institute Of East Texas

    310 Gaslight Blvd, 
    Lufkin, TX 
     (1.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Specialty:Cardiovascular DiseaseInterventional CardiologyEchocardiographyBoard Certifications:Board Certified in Cardiovascular Disease (A.B.I.M.)Board Certified in Interventional Cardiology (A.B.I.M.)Board Certified in Echocardiography (N.B.E.)Board Certified in Internal Medicine (A.B.I.M.)Professional Fellowships:Fellow of American College of Cardiology (FACC)Hospitals:CHI St. Luke’s Health-Memorial SystemWoodland Heights Medical CenterChristus Jasper Memorial Hospital, Jasper, TXAcademic Background:Andhra Medical College, Visakhapatnam, A.P., IndiaInternship/Residency, Coney Island Hospital, Brooklyn, NYFellowship in Adult Cardiovascular Medicine, Coney Island Hospital, Brooklyn, NYProfessional Associations:Texas Medical AssociationAmerican College of CardiologyPOETAwards and Honors:June 92-June 93 Dr. Kishore Chokshi Award for outstanding Clinical Fellow, Coney Island Hospital, Brooklyn NYJune 91 Virginia Nash Award for best Outgoing Medical Resident, Division of Internal Medicine, Coney Island Hospital, Brooklyn, NY1991 Syntex/Medicine Award for excellence in clinical practiceDr. Mohammed Memorial Award for the Best Intern, in the division of Internal Medicine, Coney Island Hospital, Brooklyn, NY1969-1975 Recipient of Andhra Pradesh State Special Merit Scholarship, INDIARecipient of Akkineni Nageswara Roo Award for Post-Graduate Education during residence in Internal Medicine, INDIA. Dr. Kovvali is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Angina, Hypertensive Heart Disease, Necrosis, and Atherosclerosis.

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    Kevin L. Hudson
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology | Interventional Cardiology
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology | Interventional Cardiology

    Baylor St. Luke's Medical Group Memorial Heart Institute Of East Texas

    310 Gaslight Blvd, 
    Lufkin, TX 
     (1.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Specialty:Cardiovascular DiseaseInternal MedicineInterventional CardiologyEchocardiographyAccreditation:Diplomat, National Board of Osteopathic Medical ExaminersDiplomat, American Board of Internal MedicineInstructor in Internal Medicine, Texas A&M University College of MedicineHospitals:CHI St. Luke’s Health-Memorial SystemSabine County Hospital, Hemphill, TXTyler County Hospital, Woodville, TXWoodland Heights Medical Center, Lufkin, TXAcademic Background:B.S. – Microbiology, Texas A&M UniversityD.O. – Texas College of Osteopathic MedicineInternship – Doctors Hospital, Groves, TexasInternal Medicine Residency – Scott & White Hospital, Temple, TexasCardiovascular Fellowship – Scott & White Hospital, Temple, TexasProfessional Associations:American Medical AssociationTexas Medical AssociationTexas Osteopathic Medical AssociationAmerican College of CardiologyPOETProfessional Fellowships:Fellow of American College of Cardiology (FACC). Dr. Hudson is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Atrial Fibrillation, Hypertensive Heart Disease, Pediatric Myocarditis, Aortic Valve Stenosis, and Pacemaker Implantation.

    Js Chandra
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology | Interventional Cardiology
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology | Interventional Cardiology

    Baylor St. Luke's Medical Group Memorial Heart Institute Of East Texas

    310 Gaslight Blvd, 
    Lufkin, TX 
     (1.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Specialty:Cardiovascular DiseaseInternal MedicineEchocardiographyBoard Certifications:Board Certified in Cardiovascular Disease (A.B.I.M.)Board Certified in Interventional Cardiology (A.B.I.M.)Board Certified in Echocardiography (N.B.E.)Board Certified in Internal Medicine (A.B.I.M.)Board Certified in Nuclear Cardiology (C.B.N.C.)Hospitals:CHI St. Luke’s Health-Memorial SystemWoodland Heights Medical CenterAcademic Background:Medical School: Albert Einstein College of MedicineInternship/Residence: Albert Einstein College of MedicineFellowship in Cardiology Bronx Lebanon Hospital CenterProfessional Associations:American Medical AssociationAmerican College of PhysiciansAmerican Heart AssociationTexas Medical AssociationAmerican College of CardiologyPOETProfessional Experience:Chief of Cardiology Memorial Health System of East Texas 2003-2005Vice Chief of Staff Woodland Heights Medical Center 2002-2005Chief Elect of Medical Staff Woodland Heights Medical Center 2005-2007Physician Advisor Woodland Heights Medical Center 2010-Pre. Dr. Chandra is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Atrial Fibrillation, Pediatric Myocarditis, Necrosis, and Hypertensive Heart Disease.

    Ilyas Khan
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology | Interventional Cardiology
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology | Interventional Cardiology

    Baylor St. Luke's Medical Group Memorial Heart Institute Of East Texas

    209 Gaslight Boulevard, 
    Lufkin, TX 
     (5.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Specialty:Interventional CardiologyCardiovascular DiseaseInternal MedicineEchocardiographyBoard Certifications:Interventional Cardiology, American Board of Internal MedicineCardiovascular Disease, American Board of Internal MedicineAdult Echocardiography, National Board of EchocardiographyNuclear Cardiology, Certification Board of Nuclear CardiologyInternal Medicine, American Board of Internal MedicineProfessional Fellowships:Fellow of American College of Cardiology (FACC)Hospitals:CHI St. Luke’s Health-Memorial SystemWoodland Heights Medical Center, Lufkin, TXAcademic Background:Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery(M.B.B.S), Osmania Medical College, IndiaRoyal College of Physicians & Surgeons Edinburgh, UKInternship/Residency, Internal Medicine Residency, Lankenau Medical Center, Philadelphia, PAFellowship Interventional Cardiology, Lankenau Medical Center, Philadelphia, PAFellowship Cardiovascular Disease, Lankenau Medical Center, Philadelphia, PAProfessional Associations:Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and InterventionsAmerican College of CardiologyAmerican Society of EchocardiographyAmerican Society of Nuclear CardiologyAmerican College of physiciansRoyal College of Physicians and surgeons, UKPOET. Dr. Khan is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Apoplexy, Necrosis, Atrial Fibrillation, Adenoidectomy, and Endoscopy.

    Yugandhar Manda
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology | Interventional Cardiology
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology | Interventional Cardiology

    Baylor St. Luke's Medical Group Memorial Heart Institute Of East Texas

    209 Gaslight Boulevard, 
    Lufkin, TX 
     (5.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Specialty:Cardiovascular DiseaseInterventional CardiologyNuclear CardiologyEchocardiographyInternal MedicineBoard Certifications:Cardiovascular Disease, American Board of Internal MedicineNuclear Cardiology, Certification Board of Nuclear CardiologyInternal Medicine, American Board of Internal MedicineInterventional Cardiology Board Certification (ABIM)National Board of EchocardiographyHospitals:CHI St. Luke’s Health-Memorial SystemChristus Jasper Memorial Hospital, Jasper, TXWoodland Heights Medical Center, Lufkin, TXAcademic Background:Interventional Cardiology Fellowship- St. Luke’s University Health Network, Bethlehem, PACardiovascular Diseases Fellowship- St. Luke’s University Health Network, Bethlehem, PAInternal Medicine Residency / Internal Medicine Chief Residency – Abington Memorial Hospital, Abington, PABachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (M.B.B.S), Osmania Medical College, IndiaProfessional Fellowships:Fellow American College of Cardiology (FACC)Fellow Society of Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (FSCAI)Membership of Royal College of Physicians (MRCP)Professional Associations:American College of Cardiology. Dr. Manda is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Necrosis, Heart Attack, Hypertensive Heart Disease, Heart Bypass Surgery, and Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI).

    George Vettiankal
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology | Interventional Cardiology
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology | Interventional Cardiology

    Baylor St. Luke's Medical Group Memorial Heart Institute Of East Texas

    209 Gaslight Boulevard, 
    Lufkin, TX 
     (5.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Specialty:Cardiovascular DiseaseInterventional CardiologyInternal MedicineEchocardiographyBoard Certifications:Board Certified in Cardiovascular Disease (A.B.I.M)Board Certified in Interventional Cardiology (A.B.I.M)Board Certified in Internal Medicine (A.B.I.M)Hospitals:CHI St. Luke’s Health-Memorial SystemWoodland Heights Medical Center, Lufkin, TXAcademic Background:Interventional Cardiology Fellowship Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine at Marshall University, Huntington, WVAdult Cardiologist Fellowship Training Program Dept. of Cardiovascular Services Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine at Marshall University, Huntington, WVResidency:Chief Resident Marshall University School of Medicine Huntington, WVInternal Medicine Marshall University School of Medicine Huntington, WVInternal Medicine General Hospital Trivandrum in Kerala, IndiaInternship:Internal Medicine The Jamaica Hospital Medical Center (an affiliate of New York University) Jamaica, NYProfessional Associations:American College of CardiologySociety of Coronary Angiography and InterventionProfessional Experience:Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine General Internal Medicine, Palliative Medicine, and Medical Education University of Louisville, Louisville, KYAssistant Professor of Medicine – Marshall University. Dr. Vettiankal is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Heart Attack, Apoplexy, Angina, and Arterial Embolism.

    Subramanya Venkata
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology | Interventional Cardiology
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology | Interventional Cardiology

    Baylor St. Luke's Medical Group Memorial Heart Institute Of East Texas

    209 Gaslight Boulevard, 
    Lufkin, TX 
     (5.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Specialty:Cardiac ElectrophysiologyInterventional CardiologyCardiovascular DiseaseEchocardiographyNuclear CardiologyInternal MedicineBoard Certifications:Board Certified in Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology (A.B.I.M.)Board Certified in Cardiovascular Disease (A.B.I.M.)Board Certified in Interventional Cardiology (A.B.I.M.)Board Certified in Echocardiography (N.B.E.)Board Certified in Internal Medicine (A.B.I.M.)Board Certified in Nuclear Cardiology (CBNC)Academic Background:Medical School: Kurnool Medical College, IndiaResidency: Coney Island Hospital, Brooklyn, NYProfessional Fellowships:Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY (Cardiovascular Disease& Interventional Cardiology)New York Presbyterian Methodist Hospital, Brooklyn, NY (Electrophysiology)Hospitals:CHI St. Luke’s Health-Memorial SystemWoodland Heights Medical CenterNacogdoches Medical CenterNacogdoches Memorial Health. Dr. Venkata is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Atrial Fibrillation, Familial Neurocardiogenic Syncope, Angina, Pacemaker Implantation, and Cardiac Ablation.

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Internal Medicine
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Internal Medicine

    Angelina County Health Department

    202 S Bynum St, 
    Lufkin, TX 
     (0.5 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Josefa Santiago is a primary care provider, practicing in Internal Medicine in Lufkin, Texas. Dr. Santiago is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. Her top areas of expertise are Diabetic Neuropathy, Cirrhosis, Familial Combined Hyperlipidemia, and Xanthoma.

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Family Medicine
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Family Medicine

    The Salvation Army A Georgia Corporation

    305 Shands Dr, 
    Lufkin, TX 
     (1.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Kindrell Tucker is a primary care provider, practicing in Family Medicine in Lufkin, Texas. Dr. Tucker is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Obesity in Children, Peptic Ulcer, Food Allergy, Gastrostomy, and Ureteroscopy.

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology

    Baylor St. Luke's Medical Group Memorial Heart Institute Of East Texas

    310 Gaslight Blvd, 
    Lufkin, TX 
     (1.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Vivek Menon is a Cardiologist in Lufkin, Texas. Dr. Menon is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Pericarditis, Aortic Valve Stenosis, Coronary Heart Disease, Aortic Valve Replacement, and Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR).

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Internal Medicine
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Internal Medicine

    Cherry Internal Medicine Clinic Of East Texas PA

    107 Medical Park Dr, 
    Lufkin, TX 
     (1.3 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Mariyam Cherry is a primary care provider, practicing in Internal Medicine in Lufkin, Texas. Dr. Cherry is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. Her top areas of expertise are Glucocorticoid-Remediable Aldosteronism, Hypertension, Familial Hypertension, and Splenic Infarction.

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Internal Medicine
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Internal Medicine

    Sudheer R. Karnati MD PA

    5 Medical Center Blvd, 
    Lufkin, TX 
     (1.4 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Sudheer Karnati is a primary care provider, practicing in Internal Medicine in Lufkin, Texas. Dr. Karnati is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Familial Hypertension, Glucocorticoid-Remediable Aldosteronism, Gastrostomy, and Endoscopy.

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Family Medicine
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Family Medicine

    Office

    1224 S John Redditt Dr, 
    Lufkin, TX 
     (1.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Joseph Koch is a primary care provider, practicing in Family Medicine in Lufkin, Texas. Dr. Koch is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Bronchitis, Obesity in Children, Familial Hypertension, and Hypertension.

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Family Medicine
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Family Medicine

    Brian Spore DO PA

    3804 S Medford Dr, 
    Lufkin, TX 
     (1.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Robert Kistler is a primary care provider, practicing in Family Medicine in Lufkin, Texas. Dr. Kistler is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Sinusitis, Empyema, Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C), and COVID-19.

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Family Medicine
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Family Medicine
    1702 E Denman Ave, 
    Lufkin, TX 
     (1.9 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Jansen Todd is a primary care provider, practicing in Family Medicine in Lufkin, Texas. Dr. Todd is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Necrosis, Alzheimer's Disease, Familial Hypertension, and Hypertension.

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology

    Vivek Mangla MD PC

    710 Gaslight Blvd Ste A, 
    Lufkin, TX 
     (5.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Steven Feld is a Cardiologist in Lufkin, Texas. Dr. Feld is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Angina, Atherosclerosis, Coronary Heart Disease, and Glucocorticoid-Remediable Aldosteronism.

    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Palliative Medicine
    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Palliative Medicine

    Carlton J. Lewis DO PA

    10 Medical Center Blvd Ste I, 
    Lufkin, TX 
     (5.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Carlton Lewis is a primary care provider, practicing in Palliative Medicine in Lufkin, Texas. Dr. Lewis is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Urinary Tract Infection in Children, Type 2 Diabetes (T2D), Cirrhosis, and Xanthoma.

    Michael H. Huber
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Internal Medicine | Family Medicine
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Internal Medicine | Family Medicine

    Baylor St. Luke's Medical Group Angelina Internal Medicine

    1111 W. Frank Avenue, Suite 100, 
    Lufkin, TX 
     (5.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Michael Hunt Huber, MD, is dedicated to delivering high-quality, compassionate care to Lufkin and nearby communities. Michael Hunt Huber specializes in Primary Care and works at Baylor St. Luke's Medical Group Angelina Internal Medicine. To make an appointment, please call (936) 639-2244. Dr. Hunt Huber is part of the Baylor St. Luke's Medical Group, a network of more than 250 multidisciplinary healthcare providers conveniently located throughout the Greater Houston area. Baylor St. Luke's Medical Group accepts all major insurance plans, making it easier for you to access the best care at the best value. To review all accepted insurance carriers, please visit: https://www.stlukeshealth.org/baylor-st-lukes-medical-group/patient-resources/insurances-accepted. Dr. Huber is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Hypertensive Heart Disease, Gallbladder Disease, Venous Insufficiency, Gastrostomy, and Endoscopy.

    Showing 1-20 of 29

    Last Updated: 02/22/2026

    What is the definition of Heart Failure?

    Heart failure is a condition in which the heart is no longer able to pump oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body efficiently. This causes symptoms to occur throughout the body.

    Which doctors treat heart failure?   

    Heart failure, also called congestive heart failure, is managed by a team of specialized doctors

    • Primary care doctors are often the first to identify signs of heart failure. They help monitor symptoms, manage overall health, and coordinate care among specialists. They play an important role in early detection and ongoing support. 
    • Cardiologists, including heart failure specialists, lead treatment by diagnosing the condition, prescribing medications, and recommending lifestyle changes. In advanced cases, they may oversee procedures like implantable devices and heart transplants. 
    • Pulmonologists manage lung-related symptoms, such as shortness of breath, due to fluid buildup. They may prescribe diuretics or oxygen therapy to relieve congestion and improve breathing. 
    • Electrophysiologists treat heart rhythm issues (arrhythmias) that may develop with heart failure. They stabilize rhythms through medications, procedures, or implanted devices like pacemakers or defibrillators. 

    What are the symptoms of heart failure? 

    Symptoms of heart failure can vary by type and level of intensity from person to person. 

    Common signs include: 

    • Shortness of breath, especially during activity or while lying down 
    • Fatigue and weakness 
    • Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet 
    • Rapid or irregular heartbeat 
    • Persistent cough or wheezing, often with white or pink mucus 
    • Difficulty concentrating and a general feeling of being weak or tired 

    How is heart failure diagnosed?  

    Heart failure is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical exams, and tests that assess heart function.  

    • Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): Small sensors attached to the skin detect the heart’s rhythm and identify any irregularities, which can signal heart stress or damage. 
    • Echocardiogram: This ultrasound test uses sound waves to create live images that show the heart’s size, shape, and how well it pumps, helping doctors assess damage or weak heart muscle.  
    • Blood Tests: Tests like the B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) measure specific markers that show heart strain. Elevated BNP levels suggest the heart is under stress or working harder than normal. 
    • Chest X-ray: This imaging test shows the size of the heart and any fluid buildup in the lungs. Enlarged heart size or lung congestion can suggest heart failure.  
    • Stress Test: This test checks heart performance under exertion, usually involving exercise or medications that stimulate the heart. Doctors look at heart rate, blood pressure, and rhythm to identify defects. 
    • Cardiac MRI: A cardiac MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the heart, which allows doctors to spot any structural and functional issues. 

    How does heart failure progress?   

    Heart failure progresses in four stages, from A to D. 

    • Stage A: High risk of developing heart failure, but without symptoms or structural heart disease. 
    • Stage B: Structural heart disease is present but without symptoms of heart failure. 
    • Stage C: Symptoms like fatigue and shortness of breath appear along with structural heart issues. 
    • Stage D: Advanced heart failure, where symptoms continue even with treatment. 

    By further classifying patients in stage C and stage D heart failure, healthcare teams can better understand how to treat symptoms in more advanced stages. The most common approach is to categorize patients based on symptom severity during physical activity.  

    • Class I means there is no limitation of physical activity 
    •  Class II means there is a slight limitation of physical activity 
    • Class III: means symptoms cause discomfort and limitation of physical activity 
    • Class IV means symptoms are present even at rest and any activity causes discomfort 

    What is the difference between a heart failure doctor and a cardiologist?  

    Both heart failure doctors and cardiologists treat heart failure, but they bring different levels of specialization. A cardiologist is a doctor who treats diseases of the heart and blood vessels, while a heart failure doctor is a cardiologist who specializes in heart failure. Cardiologists are experts in diagnosing and managing a wide range of heart conditions. Heart failure doctors focus specifically on heart failure and may prescribe advanced treatments or therapies. While both types of doctors are essential in treating heart failure, heart failure specialists provide a more focused approach for individuals with complex or severe cases.  

    What is the life expectancy of someone with heart failure? 

    Estimating survival rate is complicated because the life expectancy of someone with heart failure depends on what stage the condition is, how well they respond to treatment, and lifestyle factors. Early stages of heart failure, especially with lifestyle changes and treatment, can slow down progression. In later stages, treatment focuses on symptom management and improving quality of life. Regular follow-ups with a heart failure expert can help patients live longer, healthier lives. However, if heart failure is left untreated, it will be fatal.  

    When should I see a Heart Failure doctor near Lufkin, TX?

    There are various reasons why you may want to see a specialist, such as: 

    • Your primary care provider recommends it. 
    • Your condition requires expert knowledge and specialized care. 
    • Your symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment. 
    • You need specialized testing or procedures. 
    • You want a second opinion.  

    What should I consider when choosing a Heart Failure doctor near Lufkin, TX?

    It’s important to see a provider with expertise in your specific condition. Each provider profile in MediFind’s doctor database includes information on which conditions they treat, years of experience, research contributions, languages spoken, insurance plans accepted, and more.  

    How does MediFind rank Heart Failure doctors near Lufkin, TX?

    MediFind’s rankings are based on a variety of data sources, such as the number of articles a doctor has published in medical journals, participation in clinical trials and industry conferences, as well as the number of patients that provider sees for a given condition. Note that MediFind’s provider database is not based on user reviews, and providers do not pay to be included in the database. 

    What types of insurance are accepted by Heart Failure doctors near Lufkin, TX?

    Most profiles in MediFind’s doctor database include a list of insurance plans accepted by that provider. However, it’s a good idea to contact the provider’s office to make sure they still accept your insurance, then doublecheck by contacting your insurance plan to confirm they’re in network. 

    How can I book an appointment online with a Heart Failure doctor near Lufkin, TX?

    MediFind offers direct scheduling for certain providers using the “Request Appointment” button on that provider’s profile. If the schedule option is not available for a provider, tap the red “Show Phone Number” button on their profile to get their contact information. If you prefer to find providers who offer online scheduling, select “Schedules online” under the “Availability” category of the filter feature on the left side of the Heart Failure doctor search results page. 

    Why is it important to get a second opinion from a different Heart Failure doctor?

    Second opinions are an opportunity to confirm a diagnosis and its root cause, learn about alternative treatment options, or simply gain peace of mind. Many people, especially those with serious diagnoses, get second opinions so they can understand all their options and make informed decisions, so don’t hesitate to get one if you have any doubts or need more information or clarification regarding your care. Note that some insurance plans require second opinions, while others don’t cover second opinions, so be sure to confirm with your insurance provider first.   

    How can I prepare for my appointment with a Heart Failure doctor near Lufkin, TX?

    Prepare for your appointment by gathering the following items: 

    • Copies of medical records (dating back at least one year) 
    • Your medical history, including illnesses, medical conditions, surgeries, and other doctors you see 
    • Family history of disease 
    • List of current prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal remedies or supplements including names and doses 
    • Allergies to medications, food, latex, insects, etc.  
    • List of questions and concerns 
    • Your insurance card 

    You might also contact the provider’s office to see if they offer transportation or childcare services or if you’re allowed to bring a loved one for support or to take notes during your visit. 

    What questions should I ask my Heart Failure doctor?

    Here are some sample questions: 

    • Can you explain in simple terms what this condition is and how it’s treated? 
    • What symptoms or side effects should I watch for? 
    • What tests will be involved, and when can I expect results? 
    • Are there other specialists I need to see? 
    • What’s the best way to reach you if I have follow-up questions? 

    How can I learn about the latest clinical trials and research advances my Heart Failure doctor may know about?

    MediFind’s Clinical Trials tool asks you a series of questions to help you narrow down your search by health condition, age, gender, location, how far you’re willing to travel, and more. Each question you answer filters down the number of trials until you find the ones that are most relevant to you. 

    MediFind’s Latest Advances tool features summaries of recent articles published in medical journals. We use cutting-edge technology to scour medical publication databases for the latest research advancements on any given condition, then we simplify this information in a way that’s useful and easy to understand. 

    Can I filter my search to show male or female Heart Failure doctors near Lufkin, TX?

    Look for the filter feature on the left side of the Heart Failure doctor search results page. Select “Female” or “Male” under the “Gender” category to search for female or male providers exclusively. If the “Any” option is selected, it will pull results for both male and female providers. 

    Can I filter my search to find a Heart Failure doctor that offers video calls?

    Look for the filter feature on the left-side of the Heart Failure doctor search results page. Select “Offers telehealth visits” under the Availability category to search for providers who offer virtual appointments (video calls). 

    Reviewed on: 11/11/24  

    By: MediFind Medical Staff 

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