Overview

A heart is a vital organ that supports many body functions and keeps us alive and healthy. As such, it’s essential to treat it like a valuable and precious item it is. Also, any health condition or malfunction that affects the heart should be addressed sooner to prevent more complications.

The human heart is a precision device that serves the entire body. It is a muscular organ about the size of a closed fist that rests slightly to the left of center in the chest. The heart beats around 100,000 times every day, pushing approximately 8 pints of blood throughout the body 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This transports waste and distributes oxygen- and nutrient-rich blood to tissues and organs.

The heart transfers deoxygenated blood to the lungs, where it fills up on oxygen and unloads carbon dioxide, a metabolic waste product. The circulatory system is made up of the heart, blood, and blood vessels (arteries, capillaries, and veins).

The heart is divided into four chambers:

• The atria: These are the two upper chambers, which receive blood.
• The ventricles: These are the two lower chambers, which discharge blood.

The septum is a tissue wall that divides the left and right atria and the left and right ventricle. The atria and ventricles are separated by valves.

The heart’s walls consist of three layers of tissue:

• Myocardium: This is the muscular tissue of the heart.
• Endocardium: This tissue lines the inside of the heart and protects the valves and chambers.
• Pericardium: This is a thin protective coating that surrounds the other parts.
• Epicardium: This protective layer consists mostly of connective tissue and forms the innermost layer of the pericardium.

Luckily, cardiology is concerned with heart health and ensuring its standard functionality. It also aims at addressing any disorders that arise through surgical and non-surgical treatment alternatives. In the long run, this helps restores the impaired heart functions and minimize the death rate.

What is Cardiology?

Cardiology is the study and treatment of heart and blood vascular problems. A cardiologist may be referring to a person who has heart illness or cardiovascular disease.

Cardiology is an internal medicine branch. It’s mainly concerned with studying and treating a wide range of heart and blood vessel disorders. Cardiologists, on the other hand, are the medical experts who specialize in this particular field. Their major aim involves diagnosing, treating, preventing, and managing all types of diseases and malfunctions of the cardiovascular system.

A cardiologist specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular disorders. The cardiologist will do tests and treatments such as cardiac catheterizations, angioplasty, and pacemaker insertion. Heart disease involves only the heart, whereas cardiovascular illness affects the heart, blood vessels, or both.

Cardiology Subspecialties

Cardiology is typically a broad and diverse field. As such, it’s further divided into several subspecialties where each branch deals with a different medical aspect. Moreover, cardiologists apply two or more subspecialties to give the patient comprehensive care and treatment. Overall, these are the main cardiology subspecialties:

General clinical cardiology:

The general clinical cardiology branch comprises diagnosing, treating, managing, and preventing various heart diseases. The cardiologists who specialize in this field aims at giving long-term care to patients suffering from cardiovascular conditions. They also have skills in developing a suitable treatment plan that suits the patients’ needs and requirements.

Interventional cardiology:

Interventional cardiology is concerned with catheter-based diagnosis and treatment of cardiac diseases. It also focuses on conducting interventional procedures, including balloon angioplasty. Besides, the interventional cardiologists are trained to utilize different cutting and laser equipment while removing plaque accumulation within the arteries.

Electrophysiology:

Electrophysiology is a medical study to access the electric system and activity of the heart. It involves diagnosing, treating, and managing heart arrhythmias through complex high-tech invasive treatment procedures. Electrophysiologists, on the other hand, are trained to implant anti-arrhythmia devices, including defibrillators and pacemakers.

Nuclear cardiology:

Nuclear cardiology involves assessing the extent of damage to the heart and blockages within the coronary artery using injectable radiotracer substance. It also uses non-invasive methods to check the myocardial flow of blood, analyze the heart’s pumping functionality, and locate heart attacks. On the other hand, nuclear cardiologists work with other cardiologists to determine the affectivity of nuclear cardiology procedures.

Cardiothoracic surgery:

This is a cardiology field that focuses on the medical treatment of the organs within the chest or thoracic cavity. Besides, cardiothoracic surgeons specialize in handling patients with various diseases of both the lungs and the heart.

Echocardiology:

Echocardiology entails all aspects of diagnostic procedures and the use of ultrasound to check cardiovascular conditions. Echocardiologits also focus on conducting these procedures and interpreting the ultrasound results.

Adult congenital cardiology:

The adult congenital cardiology field focuses on adult patients (18 years and above) with congenital heart conditions. Moreover, adult congenital cardiologists limit their area of specialization to non-invasive diagnosis and medical treatment. They are also trained to conduct a range of interventional therapeutic and invasive diagnostic procedures.

Imaging tests cardiology:

Imaging tests cardiology involves the use of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. Cardiologists specialize in non-invasive diagnosis and clinical management of various conditions using these specialized methods.

Heart failure and transplant cardiology:

Heart failure and transplant cardiology focus on addressing chronic heart failure by replacing the damaged heart with a new healthy one. Cardiologists are trained to perform heart transplants using advanced types of equipment.

What are the types of Cardiology diseases?

In the United States, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of mortality. It is critical to understand your heart in order to assist avoid it. If you have it, you can live a healthier, more active life if you learn about it and take care of yourself.

There are several cardiology conditions that develop and affect both the heart and the blood vessels. Some of these conditions are minor, while others are chronic and life-threatening. They include the following:

Abnormal heart rhythms

The heart is an incredible organ. It beats 60 to 100 times per minute in a steady, consistent pace. This happens around 100,000 times every day. Sometimes your heart beats irregularly. Arrhythmia is a medical term for an irregular or abnormal heartbeat. An arrhythmia (also known as a dysrhythmia) can cause an irregular heartbeat or a heartbeat that is too slow or too rapid.

Cardiomyopathies

This is the medical name for cardiac muscle illnesses. They're also known as enlarged hearts. People with these diseases have exceptionally large, thick, or rigid hearts. Their hearts are unable to pump blood as efficiently as they should. Cardiomyopathies deteriorate if not treated. They can result in cardiac failure and irregular heart rhythms.

Cardiomyopathy can run in families, but it can also be caused by hypertension, diabetes, obesity, metabolic illnesses, or infections.

Coronary artery disease

This is sometimes referred to as CAD. It occurs when plaque accumulates and hardens the arteries that supply oxygen and nourishment to your heart. This stiffening is also known as atherosclerosis.

Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism

Blood clots can develop in deep veins, most often in the legs. This is a case of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). They have the potential to break free and move via your circulation to your lungs, where they can obstruct blood flow. This is known as pulmonary embolism. It is potentially fatal and requires prompt medical intervention.

Because of your genes or family history, you may be predisposed to DVT. Other risk factors include prolonged sitting, such as in a car or on a plane; long-term bed rest; pregnancy; and use of birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy.

Heart failure

This phrase can be frightening. It does not imply that your heart has "failed" or has ceased to function. It suggests your heart isn't pumping as hard as it should. This causes your body to retain salt and water, resulting in edema and shortness of breath.

Heart failure is a significant public health issue in the United States, impacting about 6.5 million individuals. It is the most common reason for hospitalization among persons over the age of 65. According to the American Heart Association, the number of persons diagnosed with heart failure is expected to grow 46% by 2030.

Heart valve disease

Each of your four heart chambers has a valve near the outlet. They keep your heart pumping blood.

These valves can occasionally malfunction. Heart valve issues include the following:

• Aortic stenosis. Your aortic valve constricts. It reduces the rate at which blood flows from your heart to the rest of your body.
• Mitral valve insufficiency. Your mitral valve does not shut completely. This causes blood to flow backward, resulting in fluid accumulation in the lungs.
• Mitral valve prolapse. The valve connecting your left upper and lower chambers does not shut properly.

Stroke

Strokes occur when blood flow to the brain is slowed or blocked. When your brain does not get enough oxygen and nourishment, it begins to die. When blood cannot reach the region of your brain that regulates a certain function, your body does not function properly.

A stroke can occur as a result of a clogged artery or a leaky or ruptured blood vessel. It requires quick medical attention to prevent brain damage and other problems. In the United States, stroke is the biggest cause of disability and one of the major causes of death.

What are the symptoms of Cardiovascular disease?

If a patient exhibits signs of cardiac disease, their doctor may refer them to a cardiologist.

Symptoms that can indicate a heart problem include:

• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Chest pains
• Changes in heart rate or rhythm
• High blood pressure

A cardiologist can do tests to determine whether you have a heart murmur or an irregular heart rhythm. Patients who have suffered a heart attack, heart failure, or other cardiac disorders are frequently treated. They assist in the decision-making process for cardiac surgery, heart catheterization, angioplasty, and stenting.

How doctors can diagnose Cardiovascular diseases?

A cardiologist will do a physical examination and analyze the patient's medical history. They may do tests on the person's weight, heart, lungs, blood pressure, and blood vessels.

An interventional cardiologist may do treatments such as angioplasties, stenting, valvuloplasty, repair of congenital heart defects, and coronary thrombectomies.

They may also carry out or order tests as listed below:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): This monitors the heart's electrical activity.
• Ambulatory ECG: This monitors cardiac rhythms as the individual exercises or goes about their daily activities. Small metal electrodes are applied to the chest and connected to a Holter monitor, which records the beats.
• An exercise test, or stress test: This graph depicts the variations in heart rhythm throughout rest and exercise. It assesses the heart's functioning and limits.
• Echocardiogram: This offers an ultrasound image of the heart chambers and surrounding regions, as well as information about how effectively the heart is operating.

Echocardiography can assess cardiac output, or how well the heart pumps blood. It can identify pericarditis, or inflammation around the heart. It can help detect structural problems or cardiac valve infections.

• Cardiac catheterization: A tiny tube placed in or near the heart gathers data and may aid in the relief of a blockage. It can capture photographs and test the heart's and electrical system's functionality. Catheter-based fluoroscopic procedures can be utilized to treat congenital cardiac, valvular, and coronary artery disorders.
• Nuclear cardiology: nuclear imaging methods examine circulatory problems and illnesses in a noninvasive manner by using radioactive materials. Infarction imaging, single-photon-emission computed tomography (SPECT), planar imaging, and myocardial perfusion imaging are among examples.

What are the available treatments for Cardiovascular diseases?

Treatment approaches might differ based on your symptoms and kind of cardiovascular disease. Treatment for cardiovascular disease may include:

Lifestyle changes

Stop smoking:

If you smoke, you should quit as soon as possible. Your doctor can also provide you guidance and assistance. They can also prescribe medicine to assist you in quitting.

Have a balanced diet:

A healthy, balanced diet is advised for heart health. A healthy diet includes:

• Low levels of saturated fat – Include healthier fat sources such as oily fish, nuts and seeds, and olive oil while avoiding bad fats such as fatty cuts of meat, lard, cream, cakes, and cookies.
• Low levels of salt – Aim for no more than 6g (0.2oz or 1 teaspoon) of sugar each day.
• Low levels of sugar
• Plenty of fiber and wholegrain foods
• Plenty of fruit and vegetables – eat at least 5 portions of fruit and vegetables a day

Exercise regularly:

Adults should engage in 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week, such as cycling or brisk walking. If this is difficult for you, begin at a level that is comfortable for you and gradually increase the time and intensity of your exercise as your fitness improves.

Maintain a healthy weight:

If you're overweight or obese, a nutritious diet and regular exercise can help you lose weight. If you're having trouble losing weight, your doctor or practice nurse can assist you in developing a weight reduction strategy and recommending local resources.

Cut down on alcohol:

If you consume alcohol, try not to exceed the recommended weekly limit of 14 alcoholic units for males and 14 alcoholic units for women.

If you do drink this amount, try to spread it out across three days or more. A unit of alcohol is about equal to half a pint of regular beer or a single measure (25ml) of spirits. A small glass of wine (125ml) equals around 1.5 units.

Medications:

Medicines can help you regulate your symptoms and prevent or cure a cardiac issue. They vary, but your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse will select the one that is most likely to be safe and helpful for your condition.

There are several types of medication for heart conditions including:

• ACE inhibitors (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors)
• Angiotensin-II antagonists/Angiotensin receptor-blockers (ARBs)
• Antiarrhythmic medicines
• Anticoagulant medicines
• Antiplatelet medicines
• Beta-blockers
• Calcium channel blockers
• Cholesterol-lowering medicines (lipid-lowering medicines) such as statins
• Digoxin
• Diuretics
• Nitrates

Surgical options:

If drugs are ineffective, your doctor may recommend specific treatments or operations to treat your cardiovascular disease. Stents in your heart or leg arteries are examples, as are minimally invasive cardiac surgery, open-heart surgery, ablations, or cardioversion.

Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG):

The surgeon attaches a healthy artery or vein from elsewhere in your body to deliver blood through the blocked coronary artery in CABG, the most frequent kind of heart surgery. The grafted artery or vein creates a new conduit for blood to circulate to the heart muscle by bypassing the blocked part of the coronary artery. This is frequently done for more than one coronary artery at the same surgery. CABG is also known as heart bypass surgery or coronary artery bypass surgery.

Coronary angioplasty:

A catheter with a balloon at the tip is used in this procedure. The balloon is inflated once the catheter is placed into the occluded artery. This aids in the unblocking and enlargement of the restricted blood artery, as well as the improvement of blood flow to other regions of the body.

Heart valve repair or replacement:

Surgeons either repair or replace the valve with an artificial or biological valve produced from pig, cow, or human heart tissue. Inserting a catheter into a major blood artery, guiding it to the heart, then inflating and deflating a tiny balloon at the tip of the catheter to enlarge a narrow valve is one repair option.

Insertion of a pacemaker or an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD):

Arrhythmia, a condition in which the heart beats too quickly, too slowly, or in an irregular rhythm, is typically treated with medication first. If medicine is ineffective, a surgeon may implant a pacemaker beneath the skin of the chest or belly, with wires connecting it to the heart chambers. When a sensor identifies an aberrant cardiac rhythm, the gadget utilizes electrical pulses to regulate it. When an ICD detects a hazardous arrhythmia, it provides an electric shock to restore a normal rhythm.

Maze surgery:

The surgeon produces a pattern of scar tissue within the upper chambers of the heart to reroute electrical signals along a regulated path to the lower chambers. The procedure disables the erroneous electrical signals that cause atrial fibrillation, the most frequent kind of severe arrhythmia.

Aneurysm repair:

To repair a balloon-like protrusion in the artery or wall of the heart muscle, a weak piece of the artery or heart wall is replaced with a patch or graft.

Catheter ablation:

Catheter ablation uses radio waves to regulate the abnormal part of the cardiac electric system. This procedure is used to solve the problematic electric circuit triggering arrhythmia (irregular heart rates). 

Minimally invasive heart surgery:

Transcatheter structural heart surgery is a minimally invasive alternative to open-heart surgery that is becoming more popular. This entails inserting a long, thin, flexible tube called a catheter into your heart via blood veins accessible by the groin, thigh, belly, chest, neck, or collarbone. A little incision is required. Transcatheter aortic valve implantation, which replaces a defective aortic valve with an animal tissue valve, MitraClip® insertion for mitral valve defects, and WATCHMAN® installation for patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation are all examples of this type of surgery.

Conclusion

Cardiology is a field of medicine that focuses on the cardiovascular system's conditions, including the heart, blood vessels, and blood. Cardiologists also specialize in diagnosing, treating, preventing, and managing a wide range of cardiovascular disorders affecting both children and adults.

Cardiovascular disease refers to a range of illnesses that affect your heart and blood arteries. These disorders can impact your heart and/or blood vessels in one or more ways. A person might be symptomatic (physically experiencing the disease) or asymptomatic (not experiencing the condition) (not feeling anything at all).

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of mortality both globally and in the United States. Almost half of all individuals in the United States suffer from some sort of cardiovascular disease. People of various ages, genders, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds are affected. Cardiovascular disease kills one in every three women and persons designated female at birth.

CloudHospital, in collaboration with professional cardiologists, gives every patient a chance to receive the best treatment in a renowned medical facility. These specialists can perform different surgical and non-surgical procedures to diagnose and effectively treat heart conditions.