Cardiology

Heart Disease Treatment Cost In India

Cardiology is a medical specialty focused on diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases and disorders of the heart and blood vessels. Cardiologists, the physicians specializing in this field, are trained to manage various conditions affecting the cardiovascular system, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, congenital heart defects, and valvular heart disease.

Cardiology encompasses a wide range of diagnostic and treatment techniques, including non-invasive procedures such as echocardiograms, stress tests, and electrocardiograms (EKGs), as well as invasive procedures like angiography, angioplasty, and heart surgery. The goal of cardiology is to optimize heart health, reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, and improve overall quality of life for patients.

What Is Cardiology?

Cardiology focuses on studying the heart and its functions, dealing with disorders like heart failure, heart attack, and cardiac arrest. These conditions are prevalent in India and worldwide, especially among the elderly. Understanding cardiology is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment of heart-related issues.

Who Might Have A Heart Disease?

Preventing Heart Disease

Heart disease is common among older individuals and can be fatal if left untreated. It's prevalent in both Western and Asian countries, including India. Seeking prompt medical attention when experiencing cardiac symptoms is crucial. Alongside treatment and medication, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition is vital for preventing heart-related diseases.

Symptoms of Cardiac Diseases

Early symptoms of cardiac diseases can be subtle but should not be ignored, as they may lead to severe complications later. Common symptoms include:

Arrhythmia
  • Fainting
  • Chest pain
  • Dizziness
  • Abnormal heart rate
  • Lightheadedness
    • Atherosclerosis
    • Chest pain
    • Weakness, especially in limbs
    • Generalized pain
    • Breathlessness
  • Cold, numb limbs
    • Congenital Heart Defects:
    • Swelling
    • Breathlessness
    • Abnormal heart rate
  • Bluish skin
  • Fatigue
    • Coronary Artery Disease (CAD):
    • Breathing difficulties
    • Nausea, sometimes with vomiting
    • Chest pain
  • Indigestion, heartburn
    • Cardiomyopathy:
    • Irregular heart rate
    • Fatigue
    • Swelling in ankles and feet
  • Indigestion, bloating
  • Breathlessness

    • Infections In The Heart

    Symptoms of Heart Infections

    Heart infections, such as endocarditis or myocarditis, are caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites that damage the heart upon entering the body. Symptoms may include:

    • Fever and chills
    • Skin rashes and itching
    • Chest pain and discomfort
    • Congestion or infection in the chest leading to coughing
    Possible Causes of Heart Diseases

    Heart diseases can stem from various factors, including:

    • Previous history of coronary artery disease (CAD)
    • High blood pressure (hypertension)
    • Genetic predisposition or family history of heart defects
    • Side effects of certain medications or supplements
    • Unhealthy lifestyle choices like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, and lack of exercise
    • Excessive stress, tension, and anxiety
    • High blood sugar levels (diabetes mellitus)
    • Congenital heart defects or irregular heart structure since birth
    • Previous cardiac or cardiovascular medical issues
    Risk Factors for Heart Diseases

    Risk factors include:

    • Obesity
    • Type 2 diabetes
    • High blood pressure
    • Kidney diseases
    • High LDL cholesterol and low HDL cholesterol
    • Lifestyle habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
    Diagnosis of Cardiac Diseases

    Diagnosis methods for cardiac diseases include:

    • Blood tests: Assessing various blood parameters including HDL and LDL cholesterol levels.
    • Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): Detects abnormalities in heart function.
    • Echocardiogram and CT scan: Provides detailed images of the heart for diagnosis.
    • Cardiac MRI: Offers a comprehensive view of the heart's structure and function.
    Heart Disease Treatment Overview

    Treatment for heart diseases varies based on severity:

    • Surgical procedures like angioplasty and bypass surgery for severe cases.
    • Medications to manage and prevent complications.
    • Lifestyle changes, including reducing alcohol, quitting smoking, and adopting a healthy diet.

    Types of Cardiological Surgery

    - Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG):

    Removes fatty plaque from cardiac arteries to treat severe cardiac disorders.

    - Trans-myocardial Laser Revascularization:

    Used for cardiac angina treatment when other options are unavailable.

    - Heart Valve Repair or Replacement:

    Repairs or replaces damaged cardiac valves to maintain proper blood flow.

    - Arrhythmia Treatment:

    Corrects abnormal heart rate to improve blood flow to vital organs.

    - Open-Heart Surgery:

    Common method involving open incisions to bypass blocked or damaged arteries and valves, ensuring smoother blood supply.