Cardiology
Cardiology is a specialized branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and disorders of the heart and the circulatory system. It encompasses a wide range of conditions, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, valvular heart diseases, congenital heart defects, and peripheral vascular diseases.
A cardiologist is a physician who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases and disorders of the heart and circulatory system. They are experts in managing conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and hypertension.
They are experts in interpreting diagnostic tests such as electrocardiograms, echocardiograms, and cardiac catheterizations, as well as managing complex cardiovascular conditions.
- Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle.
- Arrhythmias: Irregular heart rhythms, which can include tachycardia (fast heart rate), bradycardia (slow heart rate), and atrial fibrillation.
- Heart Failure: Inability of the heart to pump blood effectively to meet the body's needs.
- Valvular Heart Dseases: Dysfunction of the heart valves, which can lead to leakage (regurgitation) or narrowing (stenosis) of the valves.
- Congenital Heart Defects: Structural abnormalities of the heart present at birth.