Cardiology: Complete Heart and Vascular Care

What is Cardiology?

Cardiology is the branch of medicine that deals with disorders of the heart and blood vessels. Cardiologists diagnose and treat conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and congenital heart defects. Preventive cardiology also plays a major role in reducing risks like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and diabetes.

Common Symptoms for Cardiology Consultation:

• Chest pain or pressure

• Shortness of breath

• Palpitations or irregular heartbeat

• Dizziness or fainting

Common Cardiovascular Conditions

1. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

Blockages in the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle.
Symptoms: Chest pain (angina), breathlessness, heart attack.
Treatment: Medications, angioplasty, stenting, bypass surgery.

2. Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)

Occurs when blood flow to part of the heart is blocked.
Symptoms: Severe chest pain, pain radiating to arm/jaw, sweating, nausea.
Emergency care is critical.

3. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Chronic high pressure in arteries, often asymptomatic.
Complications: Stroke, heart failure, kidney damage.
Treatment: Lifestyle changes, antihypertensive medications.

4. Heart Failure

The heart cannot pump blood effectively.
Symptoms: Fatigue, shortness of breath, leg swelling.
Treatment: Medications, lifestyle changes, implantable devices.

5. Arrhythmias (Irregular Heartbeats)

Abnormal electrical activity in the heart.
Examples: Atrial fibrillation, tachycardia, bradycardia.
Treatment: Medications, pacemakers, ablation therapy.

6. Valvular Heart Disease

Issues with heart valves (e.g., stenosis, regurgitation).
Treatment: Valve repair or replacement through surgery or minimally invasive procedures.

Cardiology Diagnostic Tests

• ECG (Electrocardiogram)

• Echocardiogram

• Stress Testing (Treadmill, Dobutamine, Nuclear)

• Cardiac CT or MRI

• Coronary Angiography

• Holter Monitoring

Treatment Options

• Medication for blood pressure, cholesterol, rhythm control

• Angioplasty and stenting

• Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery (CABG)

• Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICD), Pacemakers

• Lifestyle and diet counseling