What is cardiology? What does a cardiologist do?

During our daily lives, it is possible that we may have witnessed a shockingly high number of deaths that are caused by cardiovascular disease. We all might have thought of this question. Is Heart Disease a Common Condition in India? Probably Yes! According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in India, accounting for around 35.4 million annual deaths. Evidence suggests that Indians have the world's highest prevalence of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD).

The next raised question might be, why is that cardiovascular disease a major cause for deaths? Why is it seeming to be more prevalent in India? It is possible that this is due to people not having the right knowledge, and not knowing who the right doctor is to see for their condition. So, now let us get to have some understanding and guidance about healthcare and to when and whom should you seek for help for any kind of illness related to heart. 

 
Who are Cardiologists?

A Cardiologist is a doctor who specializes in treating conditions related to the cardiovascular system. They help to treat or prevent a wide range of cardiovascular issues and they focus on specific areas, such as congenital cheart disease, heart failure, or abnormal heart rhythms.

What does a Cardiologist do?

A Cardiologist, who specializes in heart and vascular health, may help with a wide range of conditions, including chest pain, hypertension, heart failure, and abnormalities with heart valves and blood arteries. To determine the cause of the problem, they may perform an electrocardiogram, echocardiography, or CT scan. Once they've determined the problem, they can prescribe medication, suggest lifestyle changes (such as more exercise and a healthier diet), or perform a cardiac catheterization.

Types of Cardiologists

Cardiology is a broad field that encompasses various specializations. Some of the most prevalent specializations in cardiology are listed here.

• General Cardiologist: One who oversees the treatment of cardiac illness in adults.
• Heart failure cardiologist: A doctor who specializes in treating heart failure.
• Electrophysiologist: A doctor who specializes in treating cardiac problems involving electrical activity and arrhythmia.
• Interventional cardiologist: A cardiologist, who treats cardiovascular problems without resorting to surgery.
• Cardiovascular surgeon: A medical professional who specializes in performing surgery on heart and chest.

Symptoms you should consult a Cardiologist

You can consult a cardiologist if you have the following symptoms:

• Shortness of breath
• High blood pressure (Hypertension)
• Diabetes
• Chest pain
• Inborn heart disease
• Palpitations
• High cholesterol

Conditions Treated by Cardiologist

Atherosclerosis: Atherosclerosis is a condition where arteries make the blood flow to get blocked due to the building up of fat materials, called the plague. This plague can get burst and cause the blood clot.

Angina: Angina is a kind of chest pain that happens when there is not enough blood flow to the heart. It may feel like squeezing or heaviness in your chest.

Endocarditis: Endocarditis is a rare condition which causes an inflammation in the inner lining of the heart. The treatment might include heart surgery or several weeks of antibiotics.

Heart Attack: Heart attack also called as myocardial infarction, is a medical emergency when the heart muscles begin to die due to a lack of blood supply.

Cardiac arrest: Sudden cardiac arrest happens when the heart suddenly stops beating. If not treated immediately, a shortage of blood supply to the brain and other organs can result in unconsciousness, disability, or death.

Ventricular fibrillation: Ventricular fibrillation is a life-threatening kind of arrhythmia. It occurs when the heart muscle contracts involuntarily rather than pumping blood, causing a drop in blood pressure.

Pericarditis: Pericarditis is a condition which involves inflammation and enlargement of the pericardium, a thin membrane that creates a sac surrounding the heart's muscle.

Many people get confused between the above mentioned cardiovascular conditions. It is very important to understand, especially the difference between heart attack and cardiac arrest. If you suspect any of the symptoms related to these diseases, it is mandatory that you know how to find a cardiologist, and book an appointment with them.