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James Beckerman, MD, FACC

James Beckerman, MD, FACCJames Beckerman, MD, FACC

Invasive Cardiologist, Providence St. Vincent Heart Clinic, Portland, OR

Cardiology

52 Answers17 Followers331 Helpful Answer Votes
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Bio

James Beckerman, MD, FACC, is a cardiologist at the Providence St. Vincent Heart Clinic in Portland, Oregon. He graduated summa cum laude from Harvard College and earned his doctorate from Harvard Medical School. He completed his medical training at the Massachusetts General Hospital and at Stanford Hospital and Clinics.

Beckerman specializes in the treatment and prevention of coronary artery disease and congestive heart failure, and he has a particular interest in helping patients achieve their lifestyle goals. In addition to his clinical practice, Beckerman serves on the Oregon Governor's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports. Beckerman believes in a personalized approach to wellness and recognizes that healthy lifestyles are composed of many small choices that that collectively can have a significant impact on quality of life and overall health. He is the author of The Flex Diet. Learn more at www.theflexdiet.com.

Blog: The Heart Beat

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My Answers

Q. How can I resist temptations and live a healthier life?
A. Wikipedia defines "temptation" as an act that looks appealing to an individual. Usually used to describe acts with negative connotations...
Q. Does alcoholism have an effect on congestive heart failure? My husband drinks 12 beers a day and is very bloated.
A. Excessive alcohol use can increase the risk of congestive heart failure by causing a cardiomyopathy -- which is a medical term used to describe...
Q. How can I keep my healthy eating habits when traveling?
A. Recent research suggests that people have a better chance of getting healthier if we focus on making good choices, as well as taking control of the...
Q. What can I do today to start being more active?
A. "Get 30 to 60 minutes of moderate exercise every day." Really? This recommendation is passed from health-care providers to their patients...
Q. I’ve had two bypass surgeries in the last two years and have eight stents. How many open heart surgeries can I have?
A. The maximum number of open-heart surgeries I have seen is three. With each surgery, there are increasing risks of complications. Hopefully your...
Q. Is red wine better than white wine to drink for health reasons? Is it a problem for those predisposed to alcoholism?
A. While some people recommend red over white wine, I have seen reports supporting both -- I'd probably stick with red. Cost shouldn't be a factor...
Q. My husband had a minor heart attack three days ago. We have a vacation scheduled in a few weeks. Is it safe to travel?
A. It typically isn't a problem to travel a few weeks after a minor heart attack, although I'd discuss this specifically with his physician.
Q. My husband had a minor heart attack three days ago. We have a vacation scheduled in a few weeks. Is it safe to travel?
A. It typically isn't a problem to travel a few weeks after a minor heart attack, although I'd discuss this specifically with his physician.
Q. How is a CRP test used to determine the risk of a heart attack?
A. CRP is a blood test that gives information about your body's overall inflammatory state. It's a nonspecific test that can be elevated if you have a...
Q. Is it recommended to elevate the feet above the heart for a person with congestive heart failure and emphysema?
A. Raising your feet can sometime be helpful in mobilizing fluids in cases of congestive heart failure. But a careful diuretic regimen is key to...
Q. At 56, I have to choose between a mechanical valve or tissue (which requires coumadin). Which is a better option?
A. Very tough question. One of the toughest decisions patients have to face. The latest generation of valves tend to last longer than 10 years, but...
Q. I have mitral valve prolapse and minimal tricuspid regurgitation. Will taking Adderall for ADD hurt my heart?
A. As you know, Adderall is a stimulant, which in some individuals may cause palpitations or extra heart beats. But in the majority of people who take...
Q. Can losing 10 pounds make a difference?
A. Losing weight can seem like an insurmountable task, especially when you have a significant weight loss goal. But it turns out, most people bounce...
Q. Could "lifestyle taxes" help curb obesity?
A. I think we need some more debate regarding the issue of “lifestyle taxes.” As you know, this isn’t a new concept — smokers will tell you that the...
Q. Should research spending on obesity drugs end?
A. Another drug bites the dust. In the past few weeks, we have seen sibutramine (Meridia) pulled from the shelves due to an increased risk of heart...
16-30 of 52 Answers