Cardiology

Cardiologists specialize in the diseases and conditions of the heart and blood vessels. Cardiologists can order and interpret tests, prescribe therapy, and recommend lifestyle changes to help patients manage their heart disease, but they mainly focus on heart conditions including: coronary artery disease, heart failure, heart rhythm disturbances, and congenital heart defects. They may also perform mildly-invasive procedures such as angioplasty and stenting to help restore blood flow to the heart.

This is when plaque like cholesterol, fat etc., clogs the arteries of the body. As plaque builds up, blocking the flow of blood to the heart, brain, and other organs. This can lead to a number of health problems, including heart attack and stroke. To prevent and treat atherosclerosis, lifestyle changes must be made, such as eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly. In addition, you may be prescribed medications as well. An X-ray, CT scan, MRI, or ultrasound helps to make a diagnosis. These tests help your doctor see if there is any build-up of plaque in your arteries. Your doctor may also do a blood test to check your cholesterol levels and look for markers of inflammation that are associated with atherosclerosis. If your doctor suspects you might have atherosclerosis, he or she may refer you to a cardiologist for further evaluation.

If you are experiencing any warning signs of a heart issue, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some of the major signs that something may be wrong include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, heart palpitations, and a cold sweat. Additionally, if you have a family history of heart conditions, pay attention to any changes in your health and get regular check-ups with a doctor.

Systemic arterial hypertension (ie. high blood pressure) is a condition in which the pressure of the blood flowing through the arteries is higher than normal. Over time can lead to serious health problems such as stroke, heart attack, and kidney failure. If you are diagnosed with high blood pressure, you can expect to be advised to eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. In some cases, medication is prescribed. A doctor can tell you if you have high blood pressure following a physical exam, ECG, or blood tests. Your doctor may recommend an ultrasound or cardiac catheterization to assess the condition of your heart and determine the best treatment. If left untreated, high blood pressure can cause permanent damage to the arteries and other organs in the body. That’s why it is important to get regular check-ups and eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and not smoke or drink alcohol.

Ischemic heart disease is when the heart does not receive enough blood flow and oxygen. It is caused by the narrowing or blockage of one or more of the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart. Chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and palpitations are all possible symptoms. For mild cases, treatment options can include lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly. For more severe cases, there are medications available or even surgery. Usually, this is diagnosed through physical exams, imaging tests such as echocardiograms, electrocardiograms (EKGs), and blood tests. Your doctor may also recommend other tests, such as cardiac catheterization.