SAN ANTONIO – February is American Heart Month, and a local doctor is hoping others will hear his story and get more serious and committed to their own heart health.
Dr. Eloy Ochoa, an orthopedic surgeon, is a heart attack survivor. The incident occurred shortly after Christmas celebrations, when he went from preparing for surgeries to needing surgery himself.
A Sudden Health Crisis
On the morning of December 26th, around 2:30 a.m., Ochoa was awakened by unusual symptoms. He described experiencing “kind of hot sweats and just a weird sensation” around his chest – not pain or pressure, but something unfamiliar. He immediately went to the emergency room at North Central Baptist Hospital.
Despite his symptoms initially subsiding upon arrival, an electrocardiogram (EKG) revealed he was having a heart attack. Further testing, including a cardiac catheterization performed by Dr. Scott Moore of the Baptist Medical Network, revealed “multiple blockages involving all the major coronary arteries.”
Due to the severity of the blockages, a stent was not an option. Ochoa underwent open heart surgery and received a quadruple bypass 48 hours after initially seeking medical attention.
Remarkable Recovery and a Message of Awareness
Remarkably, Ochoa was out of bed two days after surgery and soon began cardiac rehabilitation at Baptist Health Link. As of Tuesday, he reported having resumed jogging, returned to perform after two and a half weeks, and was even beginning to perform surgeries again.
Ochoa, who has participated in both half and full Ironman competitions and regularly exercises, noted he had noticed subtle changes in his physical condition before the incident. He encourages others to be attentive to any unusual sensations and to discuss them with their doctors.
He emphasized the importance of proactive health measures, including taking prescribed medications, maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, and listening to one’s body. “If you feel anything that’s just unique or different, do not hesitate and go to the ER, because it can make a huge difference,” he said.
Ochoa expressed gratitude for the care he received from the entire medical team at North Central Baptist Hospital, from the emergency room staff to the surgical and rehabilitation teams.
Frequently Asked Questions
What symptoms did Dr. Ochoa experience before seeking medical attention?
Dr. Ochoa experienced “kind of hot sweats and just a weird sensation” in his chest, which he described as something he had never felt before.
What type of surgery did Dr. Ochoa undergo?
Dr. Ochoa underwent open heart surgery and received a quadruple bypass.
How quickly was Dr. Ochoa able to return to work after his surgery?
Dr. Ochoa returned to work after two and a half weeks and was starting to perform surgeries again.
Considering Dr. Ochoa’s story, what steps can individuals take to prioritize their heart health and be proactive about potential risks?
