Midlands Cares: Some hearts just need a Guardian

Tyler Ryan learns about an early heart attack warning system that can improve quality of life

COLUMBIA SC (WOLO) – Most people understand some of the warning signs of a heart attack or cardiac event, including chest pains, tightness in the chest, radiating pain on your left side, among others.  According to MUSC’s Director of Structural Heart Disease, Dr. Garrison Morgan, upwards of ten percent of people present so signs at all, which could trigger a call to 9-1-1.

For these people, there can be added stress to normal activities like working out, yard work, and even sleeping, since many cardiac issues happen while we sleep.  According to Dr. Garrison, a device called “The Guardian” can be just the ticket.  The Guardian is a small implantable device, like a pacemaker, that gets a baseline EKG, and can then detect anything that goes out of that range.  When something abnormal is detected, the patient is alerted both through a vibration in the unit, but also with the use of external warning devices.

Dr. Morgan says that small device is implanted by cutting a small opening above the left chest, and connecting directly to the heart.

The Doctor says that having a Guardian can not only help save lives, but also enhance quality of life, as the wearer can enjoy life and activity without the added stress of a concern about their heart.

You can connect with Doctor Morgan and the team of skilled cardiologists at MUSC Columbia HERE.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Tyler Ryan is an award winning television and radio personality, weather forecaster, writer, investigative journalist, and professional emcee.  He appears daily on ABC Columbia’s Good Morning Columbia, as well as hosting the syndicated radio program Carolina Cares on the South Carolina Radio Network, and the iHeart Radio Network.  Tyler also regularly appears as a criminal expert and journalist on regional and national crime based programs like Snapped and Killer Couples.  You can contact him directly via EMAIL Or on the socials: Tyler’s Instagram  // Tyler’s Facebook