Orlando Health Heart & Vascular Institute

02/03/2026

Heart failure isn’t just an “older adult” disease. It’s rising in young adults, often because early symptoms are ignored or dismissed as anxiety or a virus.

Cardiologist Dr. Yahaira Ortiz says young patients’ symptoms are often overlooked, leading to delayed diagnoses. One of her patients, 32-year-old Alex Balmes, ignored his symptoms until his organs began to fail. “I thought that’s something that comes with old age,” said Alex. “I always just said, ‘That’s anxiety. I don’t need to go to a doctor.’

He now lives with an LVAD, a mechanical pump that helps a failing heart keep blood flowing, while awaiting a heart transplant.

“You don’t realize how sick you are until you get healthy,” Alex said. “Now, I’m back to playing regularly with my daughter. She forgets that I have batteries.

His message: Listen to your body. Heart failure can happen young. Early care can save your life.

01/31/2026

It was an inspiring day at Orlando Health Heart & Vascular Institute's 11th annual symposium! ❤️🩺

Our team of expert physicians, surgeons, and leaders came together to explore cutting-edge advancements in cardiovascular medicine, all in the pursuit of providing the highest quality care for patients with cardiovascular and vascular needs.

01/24/2026

An EKG is a powerful tool, but it’s only a snapshot. 📸

You can have a “normal” result and still have heart disease. Stress tests dig deeper and reveal what rest can’t. Don’t ignore subtle symptoms.

👉 Scroll through to learn more about protecting your heart.

01/12/2026

Which heart health risks matter most?

In this video, Dr. Maxim Olivier, cardiologist with Orlando Health Heart and Vascular Institute, ranks key cardiovascular risk factors and explains what you can do to reduce them.

01/10/2026

Proud moment for Orlando Health Heart & Vascular Institute! 🎉 Dr. Sumith Aleti has been named one of Orlando magazine’s Top Doctors of 2025, reflecting our commitment to advanced, compassionate heart care for Central Florida and beyond. Learn more: https://bit.ly/4965J14

The 26th anniversary edition of our annual special section celebrates excellence in the medical field and features hundreds of doctors chosen by their peers, guiding readers in their choice of physicians. In addition to our PREMIER DOCTORS and TOP DOCTORS lists, you’ll find personal accounts from ...

01/07/2026

Snoring might not be as harmless are you think! 😴

Dr. Mohamed Elshazly, cardiologist and cardiac electrophysiology physician with the Orlando Health Heart and Vascular Institute, myth busts sleep apnea and it's effect on heart rhythm disorders.

01/05/2026

Dr. Shahid Qamar of Orlando Health Heart & Vascular Institute breaks down the four stages of heart failure, from early risk to advanced disease. As a specialist in advanced heart failure, he shares signs to watch for and when to seek care.

12/29/2025

🎉 New year, new heart-healthy habits! 💖
Dr. Ly Tran, a cardiologist at Orlando Health Heart and Vascular Institute, shares expert tips to kickstart your healthiest year. Start 2026 strong with small changes for a long-lasting impact!

12/29/2025

12/21/2025

Swipe through to get the facts on Pulmonary Hypertension—what it is, early signs to watch for, who’s at risk, and why early diagnosis matters. Clear, simple info to help you stay informed and empowered. Tap through to learn more and protect your lung + heart health.