Cardiology is the branch of internal medicine that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of diseases related to the heart and circulatory system. It plays a critical role in the prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment of many life-threatening diseases such as heart attack, arrhythmias, hypertension, heart failure, and arterial blockages.

What Diseases Does Cardiology Deal With?

• Coronary artery diseases (vascular blockages)
• Heart attack (myocardial infarction)
• Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats)
• Heart failure
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Atherosclerosis (arterial stiffness)
• Heart valve diseases
• Congenital heart diseases
• Inflammations of the heart lining and muscle (pericarditis, myocarditis)
• Pulmonary hypertension
• Chest pain and palpitations due to symptoms

Diagnostic Methods in Cardiology

• Electrocardiography (ECG): Evaluates heart rhythm and electrical activity
• Echocardiography (ECHO): Uses ultrasound to examine heart structure and function
• 24-hour blood pressure monitoring (Holter)
• 24-hour rhythm monitoring (Holter)
• Exercise test: Measures heart response to exercise
• Coronary angiography (Interventional cardiology): Visualizes vascular blockages
• CT angiography, MRI, blood tests, lipid profile, troponin tests

What Are the Treatment Methods in Cardiology?

• Medication treatments: Blood pressure, cholesterol, rhythm, and anticoagulant medications
• Lifestyle changes: Diet, exercise, smoking cessation support
• Interventional procedures:
• Stent applications
• Balloon angioplasty
• Pacemaker applications
• Regular follow-up and monitoring: Continuous follow-up for chronic diseases

What Are the Symptoms of Cardiovascular Diseases? When Should You See a Cardiologist?

• Chest pain and pressure
• Shortness of breath
• Palpitations
• Dizziness or fainting
• Fatigue and weakness
• Swelling in the legs
• Difficulty during exercise
• High blood pressure

If any of these symptoms occur, you should consult a cardiologist without delay.

Recommendations for Protecting Cardiovascular Health

• Eat a balanced diet, avoid trans fats.
• Walk briskly for 30 minutes every day.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol.
• Regularly monitor blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• If there is a family history of heart disease, have regular cardiological check-ups.
• Try to reduce stress.

The Importance of a Multidisciplinary Approach

The cardiology department works in collaboration with other specialties such as internal medicine, pulmonology, and cardiovascular surgery to provide comprehensive and personalized diagnostic and treatment options for patients.