Dr. Thomas Shimshak, MD

Dr. Thomas Shimshak, MD is a Cardiology specialist deeply committed to proactive cardiovascular care at his clinic in Sebring, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), empowering patients with comprehensive, preventive care. Your cardiologist is your primary partner in preventing heart disease and stroke, collaborating with you to create a long-term health plan, coordinate essential screenings, and manage cardiovascular risk factors for a lifetime of wellness. He serves all ages, focusing on proactive health and risk reduction. Dr. Shimshak is not currently accepting new patients, but you can call (863) 471-3926 to inquire about waitlists or future openings.

Dr. Shimshak, a board-certified Cardiologist with a subspecialty in Interventional Cardiology and Coronary and Peripheral Vascular Disease, brings over 40 years of experience in cardiovascular care to his practice. He earned his medical degree from the Medical College of Wisconsin in 1980 and subsequently completed his residency and fellowship training there, specializing in comprehensive cardiovascular care for all ages. Further specializing in interventional cardiology and advanced angioplasty, he is Board Certified in Cardiovascular Disease and Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. He provides consultations primarily in English. Dr. Shimshak's commitment to patient well-being is evident in his extensive professional affiliations, academic appointments, and research contributions to the field of heart disease, making him a valuable resource for proactive heart health.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Thomas Shimshak is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on proactive strategies to protect and enhance your long-term health.

By working together, you and Dr. Thomas Shimshak can create a clear, actionable plan to address your unique risk factors and health goals.

A proactive approach to health involves understanding and managing potential risks. Dr. Thomas Shimshak provides expert care for a range of conditions, focusing on early detection and effective management to support your long-term wellness. Common areas of focus include:

• Atrial Flutter: Atrial flutter is a type of irregular heartbeat that can be managed to reduce your chances of developing serious heart conditions, emphasizing the role of proactive healthcare.
• Rheumatic Aortic Valve Disorders: Managing rheumatic aortic valve disease involves proactive steps to prevent further damage to your heart's aortic valve and avoid serious complications like heart failure, emphasizing the importance of regular checkups.
• Second Degree Heart Block: Having a second-degree heart block means your heart's electrical system isn't working perfectly, leading to irregular heartbeats; proactive monitoring and treatment can significantly reduce your risk of stroke and other heart problems.
• Heart Valve Disorders: Regular checkups are crucial for identifying heart valve problems early, enabling timely treatment to minimize long-term damage and improve quality of life.
• Chest Pain: Experiencing chest pain? Don't ignore it – early detection and treatment of underlying cardiovascular issues can significantly reduce your long-term heart disease risk.
• Chronic Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Chronic deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition where blood clots form in deep veins, often in the legs, increasing your risk of life-threatening complications like pulmonary embolism—preventative measures and early diagnosis are crucial.
• Primary Pulmonary Hypertension: Primary pulmonary hypertension is a disease where high blood pressure in the lung arteries can lead to heart damage; lifestyle adjustments and medical treatment can greatly improve long-term health.
• Atrial Fibrillation: Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular heartbeat that increases your risk of stroke, so early detection and treatment are crucial for prevention.
• Type 2 Heart Block - Mobitz: Mobitz type 2 heart block is a rhythm problem where your heart's electrical signals don't always reach the lower chambers efficiently, highlighting the importance of regular heart check-ups to catch and manage this condition before it causes serious complications.
• Arrhythmias: Arrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats, are a preventable cause of many cardiovascular diseases, so regular checkups and lifestyle changes are important for prevention.
• Cardiomyopathy: Cardiomyopathy weakens your heart muscle, making it harder to pump blood effectively; early detection and lifestyle changes can help prevent serious complications.
• Syncope: Syncope, or fainting, can be a sign of an underlying heart problem, so seeking medical attention promptly is crucial for preventing serious complications.

This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes only. The best way to understand your personal health and create a prevention plan is to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Taking proactive steps is central to long-term health. Dr. Thomas Shimshak offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• Electrocardiogram (EKG): Take charge of your heart health with an EKG—a quick, painless test that screens for irregular heartbeats and other abnormalities that could lead to life-threatening conditions.
• Impella Device: If you're facing a complex heart procedure, the Impella device acts as a temporary support system to enhance blood circulation, aiding your heart's performance during the surgery and recovery.
• Carotid Artery Stent Placement: To prevent a stroke, a carotid artery stent can be placed to widen a narrowed artery in your neck, restoring healthy blood flow.
• Peripheral Arterial Disease Screening (PAD): A PAD screening is a vital step towards preventing heart disease and stroke; it detects reduced blood flow to your limbs, indicating potential cardiovascular risks.
• Cardiac Catheterization with Robotic Assist: Taking charge of your heart health starts with a cardiac catheterization with robotic assist, a sophisticated procedure that helps doctors pinpoint blockages in your arteries, minimizing your risk of a heart attack or stroke.
• Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI): PCI is a minimally invasive procedure that opens blocked arteries in your heart, improving blood flow and reducing your risk of heart attack and stroke.
• Cardiac Myocardial Perfusion Imaging: Take a proactive step toward a healthier heart with myocardial perfusion imaging. This test visually assesses blood flow to your heart muscle, facilitating early diagnosis and treatment of conditions that could cause heart attacks or strokes.
• Atherectomy: As a preventative measure, atherectomy can help restore healthy blood flow in your arteries, lowering your risk of cardiovascular events.
• HeartAware Online Risk Screening: Get a clear picture of your heart health with HeartAware's convenient online risk assessment, helping you take control of your cardiovascular future.
• Cardiac Ultrasound: This heart screening uses sound waves to create pictures of your heart, allowing doctors to assess its health, detect abnormalities early on, and implement preventative measures.
• Pacemaker Insertion or Replacement: A pacemaker insertion or replacement helps regulate your heartbeat, preventing dangerous rhythms that can lead to stroke or heart failure.
• Ablation for Cardiac Arrhythmias: Cardiac ablation is a procedure that can help prevent dangerous heart rhythms by correcting abnormal electrical signals in your heart.

Service availability can change, and not all services listed may be appropriate for every patient. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services and to create your personalized screening plan, please schedule a consultation.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Cardiology in Florida.

Dr. Thomas Shimshak is dedicated to partnering with Caregivers to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how a proactive approach can make a tangible difference in a Patient's life:

• By understanding their atrial flutter risk factors and adhering to a proactive heart health plan, a patient gained confidence in managing their condition and significantly reduced the chance of developing more serious heart problems.
• By adhering to a proactive health plan, including regular checkups and lifestyle modifications, a patient significantly lowered their risk of developing serious complications from rheumatic aortic valve disease, ensuring a healthier future.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results may vary and depend on many factors specific to each patient. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.

Here are answers to some common questions about proactive Cardiovascular care with Dr. Thomas Shimshak:

What is a Cardiologist, and when should I see one?

A cardiologist is a medical specialist who diagnoses and treats conditions of the heart and blood vessels. You should see a cardiologist if you experience symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath, have a family history of heart disease, or have risk factors like high blood pressure or high cholesterol that need expert management.

What can I expect during my first visit with Dr. Thomas Shimshak?

Your first visit with Dr. Shimshak will be a comprehensive cardiovascular assessment. We'll review your medical and family history, perform a physical exam, and obtain an EKG. A discussion of lifestyle and risk factors will follow, helping us create a personalized heart health plan for you.

What are the most important things I can do to prevent a heart attack?

Taking control of your cardiovascular health is achievable by knowing and managing your blood pressure and cholesterol, avoiding smoking, incorporating regular physical activity, and maintaining a heart-healthy diet. These proactive steps empower you to significantly reduce your risk of a heart attack.

How is Peripheral Artery Disease (P.A.D.) related to heart disease?

Peripheral artery disease (P.A.D.) is caused by the same process as coronary artery disease—atherosclerosis (plaque buildup)—but it affects the arteries in the legs and feet. Having P.A.D. is a major red flag, indicating a very high risk for heart attack and stroke. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.

What is a pacemaker, and who needs one?

A pacemaker is a small electronic device implanted under the skin to help regulate a slow or irregular heartbeat. It's needed when the heart's natural electrical system isn't working correctly, ensuring the heart beats at a proper, steady rate.

What is an echocardiogram?

An echocardiogram, or "echo," is a safe and painless ultrasound of the heart. It uses sound waves to create moving pictures of the heart, allowing Dr. Shimshak to assess the strength of the heart muscle, check the function of the heart valves, and detect structural problems.

What is the difference between 'good' (HDL) and 'bad' (LDL) cholesterol?

LDL, or "lousy" cholesterol, builds up plaque in your arteries, potentially causing blockages. HDL, or "healthy" cholesterol, helps remove LDL from your body. Dr. Shimshak helps manage both to prevent heart disease.

What is a heart murmur?

A heart murmur is an extra sound heard when listening to the heart. Many murmurs are innocent and harmless; Dr. Shimshak is an expert at determining the cause, often using an echocardiogram to see if the murmur is related to a heart valve problem that needs monitoring or treatment.

4240 Sun N Lake Blvd Ste 202
Sebring FL 33872
Phone: (863) 471-3926

Dr. Thomas Shimshak, MD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1467567941

Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.

The information on this profile, provided by weprevent.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with preventive health partners. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Cardiology like Dr. Thomas Shimshak are skilled in helping patients create proactive health plans. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your cardiology about all aspects of your health and your personalized prevention plan.