Cardiology is the branch of medical science which deals with the diseases of the heart and also the circulatory system. Physicians who specialized in this field are called as a cardiologist. Physicians who specialize in cardiac surgery are known as cardiothoracic surgeons or cardiac surgeons.
-The system includes treatment of congenital heart disease, coronary heart disease, valvular heart disease, heart failure, and electrophysiology.
-Diagnostic testing for heart diseases includes Electro-cardiography (ECG), Radiography, Echocardiography, Carotid ultrasound, and Lab tests.
-Tests used to check blocked arteries are Exercise treadmill test and stress echo.
Treatments in Cardiology:
- Coronary angiography/ Heart catheterization
It is used to know the extent of blockage in the arteries. Catheterization provides information about the blood supply to the heart.
- Angioplasty/ Stent:
It is to reopen the blocked arteries.
- Pacemaker implantation:
A pacemaker is inserted to correct slow, irregular or abnormal heartbeats.
- Cardiac defibrillator implantation:
A small device is implanted under the skin and connected to the heart to monitor the heart rate.
- Cardiac resynchronization therapy:
A specialized pacemaker is used to re-coordinate the action of the left and right ventricles.
- Cardiac rehabilitation:
This is to help the heart patient to adopt a healthier lifestyle. It may be recommended for up to 12 weeks.