Cardiology
Cardiology is the branch of medicine that studies and treats diseases of the heart and circulation (the cardiovascular system) and factors that may increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
They are broadly speaking conditions that affect the hearts blood supply (coronary artery disease), the heart valves and the heart rhythm.
Cardiology’s main aims are to diagnose these conditions and to implement treatments that improve symptoms and improve quality of life, but also to provide treatments that may improve life expectancy.
What work does a Cardiologist specialise in?
A cardiologist is a medical doctor who specialises in the field of cardiovascular medicine. They will use a variety of methods to diagnose cardiovascular disease and implement appropriate treatments.
However, the prevention of cardiovascular disease is a vital role of the cardiologist. They can therefore advise on appropriate preventative measure you need to take in order to maintain your cardiovascular health.
Cardiovascular disorders can present with varied symptoms and physical signs that include:
- Chest pain
- Breathlessness & Fatigue
- Palpitations
- Swollen ankles
- Collapse (syncope)
Cardiovascular disorders are investigated using various non-invasive & invasive investigations. These include:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG)
- Echocardiogram (ECHO)
- 24hr Heart rhythm recording (Holter Monitor)
- 24hr Blood pressure monitor
- Exercise test (ETT)
- CTCA (CT coronary angiogram)
- Invasive coronary angiogram
- Implantable heart rhythm monitor (Loop recorder)
What kinds of Cardiology treatments are available?
Treatments are varied ranging from simple lifestyle advice and modifications, to the use of medications or complex invasive procedures. These include:
- Percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) for occlusive coronary artery disease
- Permanent pacemakers
- Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)
- Cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT)
- D/C cardioversion
