Xin (Jim) Zhang, MD, electrophysiologist, recently joined UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute on the east and west shores, and he is looking forward to seeing new patients — and helping them achieve a better quality of life. 
“I think there’s nothing better in medicine than to be able to help a patient definitively and then to see their lives are truly improved afterwards,” says Dr. Zhang.
As an electrophysiologist, Dr. Zhang is a cardiologist who subspecializes in diagnosing and treating heart rhythm disorders — which may involve slow or fast heart rhythms. The most common heart rhythm disorder in the United States is atrial fibrillation, also commonly known as AFib.
“Following a heart-healthy lifestyle can help prevent AFib, as well as reduce complications if you are already diagnosed with AFib,” says Dr. Zhang.
Dr. Zhang shares some specific tips for a heart-healthy lifestyle:
- Get regular physical activity (aim for 30 minutes a day)
- Follow a heart-healthy dietthat’slow in salt, saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Manage cholesterol
- Control blood pressure
- Avoid use of any form of tobacco
- Avoid excessive intake of alcohol and caffeine
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Zhang, call 717-731-0101.