Cardiology is a branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and disorders of the heart and blood vessels, including conditions like coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias.
What it is
Cardiology is a medical specialty focused on the heart and cardiovascular system.
What cardiologists do
Cardiologists are physicians who specialize in diagnosing and treating heart conditions.
Common heart conditions
Coronary artery disease (CAD) : Narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the heart.
Heart failure : The heart's inability to pump blood effectively.
Arrhythmias : Irregular heartbeats.
Congenital heart defects : Heart problems present at birth.
Valvular heart disease : Problems with the heart valves.
Diagnostic tools
Electrocardiogram (ECG) : Records the heart's electrical activity.
Echocardiogram : Uses sound waves to create images of the heart.
Stress tests : Evaluate the heart's function during exercise.
Angiography : Visualizes blood vessels using X-rays.
Treatment options
Cardiologists use a variety of treatments, including:
Medications : To manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and arrhythmias.
Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) : A minimally invasive procedure to open blocked arteries.
Coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) : A surgical procedure to bypass blocked arteries.
Pacemakers and defibrillators : Devices to regulate the heart's rhythm.
