A Kaiser Permanente member for over 34 years, Rafael Ramirez epitomized an active and healthy lifestyle.
An avid runner and soccer player, Ramirez was also a soccer coach who inspired others with his passion for the sport.
But his life took an unexpected turn with a severe headache one day. Concerned, his teammate suggested he check his blood pressure. The reading was alarmingly high at 190 over 110. Recognizing the urgency, Ramirez sought help from his trusted team at Kaiser Permanente.
“The week before I ended up going to the hospital, I was playing soccer, wasn’t stressed at all. I wasn’t sore,” recalls Ramirez. “I was running five miles every day. Before I got the headache, I never felt anything that would have given me any kind of red flags to get myself checked.”
Ramirez’s primary care provider referred him to Howard Dinh, MD, Cardiology, South Sacramento, and director of Cardiac Services for Kaiser Permanente in Greater Sacramento.
Due to Ramirez’s excellent physical condition, the initial stress test results were inconclusive. Dr. Dinh, however, decided to conduct further tests. This decision proved to be lifesaving, as it revealed Ramirez had a 90% blockage in not 1 but 2 coronary arteries.
The cardiac care team swiftly intervened, placing 2 stents to restore proper blood flow. This critical procedure marked the beginning of Ramirez’s recovery and a new chapter in his life.
“There are certain risk factors that are silent killers. For example, high blood pressure. You don’t always have symptoms,” explained Dr. Dinh. “If we don’t get it treated early enough, the first set of symptoms could be a stroke or heart attack.”
Today, Ramirez is acutely aware of his health condition and has even improved his already healthy lifestyle habits by focusing on a heart-healthy diet. His experience has transformed him into an advocate for health awareness.
He now actively spreads the message about the importance of listening to one’s body, getting regular checkups, and knowing one’s blood pressure. Through his advocacy, Ramirez hopes to inspire others to take charge of their health.
