Cardiology
Cardiology is the branch of medicine that deals with the study, diagnosis, and treatment of heart-related diseases and disorders. Cardiologists specialize in managing heart conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and congenital heart defects. Given the increasing prevalence of heart disease globally, cardiology plays a crucial role in modern healthcare.
Symptoms of Heart Diseases
Early detection of heart disease can save lives. Common symptoms include:
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue and weakness
- Dizziness or fainting
- Swelling in legs, ankles, or feet
- Irregular heartbeat
Structure and Function of the Heart
The human heart is a muscular organ divided into four chambers:
- Right Atrium – Receives oxygen-poor blood from the body.
- Right Ventricle – Pumps blood to the lungs for oxygenation.
- Left Atrium – Receives oxygen-rich blood from the lungs.
- Left Ventricle – Pumps oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body.
The heart works continuously through electrical impulses and coordinated contractions to circulate blood efficiently.
Common Heart Diseases and Disorders
1. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
CAD occurs when plaque (fatty deposits) builds up in the coronary arteries, restricting blood flow. This can cause chest pain (angina) and lead to heart attacks if untreated.
2. Heart Failure
A condition where the heart cannot pump blood effectively, leading to fatigue, shortness of breath, and fluid buildup in the lungs and legs. Causes include high blood pressure, CAD, and previous heart attacks.
3. Arrhythmias
Irregular heartbeats that can be too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or erratic (atrial fibrillation). Severe arrhythmias can increase the risk of stroke or sudden cardiac arrest.
4. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
Persistent high blood pressure forces the heart to work harder, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage. It often goes unnoticed until complications arise.
5. Congenital Heart Defects
Structural heart abnormalities present from birth, such as holes in the heart or improperly formed valves, can lead to circulation problems and require medical intervention.
6. Valvular Heart Disease
Damage or defects in one or more of the heart’s four valves can lead to improper blood flow, causing symptoms like fatigue, swelling, and shortness of breath.
What are the Lifestyle Changes for Heart Health?
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
A condition where plaque buildup in the arteries reduces blood flow to the heart, leading to chest pain (angina) or heart attacks.
Heart Failure
A condition in which the heart cannot pump blood effectively, causing symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and fluid retention.
Arrhythmias
Irregular heartbeats, which can be too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or erratic, potentially leading to dizziness, palpitations, or even cardiac arrest.
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
A chronic condition where the force of blood against artery walls is too high, increasing the risk of stroke, heart attack, and kidney disease.
Congenital Heart Defects
Structural abnormalities in the heart present from birth, affecting blood flow and sometimes requiring surgical correction.
Valvular Heart Disease
A disorder affecting the heart valves, leading to problems like stenosis (narrowing), regurgitation (leakage), or prolapse, which can impact blood circulation.