Cardiologists undergo extensive education and training. This includes medical school, residency in internal medicine, and specialised fellowship training in cardiology. The training prepares them to handle a spectrum of heart problems, from common conditions to complex cases requiring advanced procedures. In Singapore, cardiologists are known for their deep knowledge in pathophysiology of the heart.
Cardiologists not only treat existing heart conditions but also play a vital role in preventing heart problems. They provide comprehensive care that includes lifestyle counselling, dietary recommendations, and monitoring of risk factors. By maintaining regular appointments with a cardiologist, patients with heart conditions are likely to achieve better heart health and reduce the likelihood of future heart issues.
Here are some five good reasons why people should visit a cardiologist:
Heart conditions can be life-threatening if not properly managed. Significant heart problems include congenital heart defects, arrhythmias, heart failure and coronary artery disease. Cardiologists in Singapore are equipped with the expertise and technology to diagnose, manage, and treat these conditions effectively.
Early intervention can make a significant difference in the outcomes of these conditions. The sooner you see a specialist, the easier it is to manage and treat your heart problem, potentially saving your life and improving your quality of life.
Recognizing and addressing heart symptoms early is crucial. Symptoms such as an irregular heartbeat, persistent fatigue during physical activity, chest tightness, and frequent dizziness are warning signs of an unhealthy heart. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more severe complications.
Cardiologists use advanced diagnostic tools to determine whether these symptoms are related to heart disease and to develop an appropriate treatment plan. Some of these include:
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Electrocardiogram (ECG): An ECG records the electrical activity of the heart. It helps in detecting irregular heart rhythms, signs of a previous heart attack, and other heart conditions. It is a quick and non-invasive test that provides valuable information about heart health.
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CT Coronary Angiogram: This is CT scan of the heart. It provides information about the presence or absence of heart arteries blockage. This is the only non-invasive scan that reveals 0% to 100% narrowing or stenosis of the heart arteries. CTCA scan helps to eliminate unnecessary invasive coronary angiography which carries risk. CTCA helps to identify patients who require further evaluation with invasive coronary angiography and coronary artery stenting or percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA).
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Echocardiogram: This is an ultrasound of the heart. It provides detailed images of the heart’s structure and function, allowing cardiologists to assess heart muscle movement, valve function, and blood flow. It helps in diagnosing conditions such as heart valve disease, cardiomyopathy, and congenital heart defects.
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