5 Good Reasons to Visit a Cardiologist in Singapore
Cardiologists are highly specialised healthcare professionals with extensive training in cardiology - the pathophysiology of the heart. If you are reading this, you may have some underlying heart conditions or recently exhibited some, perhaps concerning, symptoms relating to your cardiovascular health. You may be seeking a second opinion, or simply want a peace of mind by doing deeper checks. In this case, let us take you through the common reasons why consulting a cardiologist in Singapore makes good sense.
Before we dive deep, let us share with you the role of a cardiologist, and why they differ from the usual doctor you see at a GP clinic or even in an acute care setting.
Expertise and Training of Cardiologists
Cardiologists undergo extensive education and training. This includes medical school, residency in internal medicine, and specialised fellowship training in cardiology. The training prepares them to handle a spectrum of heart problems, from common conditions to complex cases requiring advanced procedures. In Singapore, cardiologists are known for their deep knowledge in pathophysiology of the heart.
Cardiologists not only treat existing heart conditions but also play a vital role in preventing heart problems. They provide comprehensive care that includes lifestyle counselling, dietary recommendations, and monitoring of risk factors. By maintaining regular appointments with a cardiologist, patients with heart conditions are likely to achieve better heart health and reduce the likelihood of future heart issues.
Here are some five good reasons why people should visit a cardiologist:
1. To Manage Life-Threatening Heart Conditions
Heart conditions can be life-threatening if not properly managed. Significant heart problems include congenital heart defects, arrhythmias, heart failure and coronary artery disease. Cardiologists in Singapore are equipped with the expertise and technology to diagnose, manage, and treat these conditions effectively.
Early intervention can make a significant difference in the outcomes of these conditions. The sooner you see a specialist, the easier it is to manage and treat your heart problem, potentially saving your life and improving your quality of life.
2. To Address Heart Symptoms Promptly
Recognizing and addressing heart symptoms early is crucial. Symptoms such as an irregular heartbeat, persistent fatigue during physical activity, chest tightness, and frequent dizziness are warning signs of an unhealthy heart. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more severe complications.
Cardiologists use advanced diagnostic tools to determine whether these symptoms are related to heart disease and to develop an appropriate treatment plan. Some of these include:
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Electrocardiogram (ECG): An ECG records the electrical activity of the heart. It helps in detecting irregular heart rhythms, signs of a previous heart attack, and other heart conditions. It is a quick and non-invasive test that provides valuable information about heart health.
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CT Coronary Angiogram: This is CT scan of the heart. It provides information about the presence or absence of heart arteries blockage. This is the only non-invasive scan that reveals 0% to 100% narrowing or stenosis of the heart arteries. CTCA scan helps to eliminate unnecessary invasive coronary angiography which carries risk. CTCA helps to identify patients who require further evaluation with invasive coronary angiography and coronary artery stenting or percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA).
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Echocardiogram: This is an ultrasound of the heart. It provides detailed images of the heart’s structure and function, allowing cardiologists to assess heart muscle movement, valve function, and blood flow. It helps in diagnosing conditions such as heart valve disease, cardiomyopathy, and congenital heart defects.
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Myocardial Perfusion Imaging (MPI): This is imaging technique used to evaluate blood flow to the heart muscle both at rest and during stress. It helps in identifying areas of the heart that may not be receiving adequate blood supply, which can indicate coronary artery disease. This imaging technique is crucial for determining the severity and location of blockages in the coronary arteries. The example of such imaging technique include Magnetic Resonance myocardial perfusion imaging scan (MR MPI).
Timely consultations with a cardiologist using these diagnostic tools can help in managing symptoms effectively and preventing the progression of heart disease. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to improving outcomes and maintaining heart health.
3. Family History of Heart Disease
If you have a family history of heart disease, coronary artery disease or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, your risk of developing heart problems is higher. Cardiologists in Singapore can help to assess your risk and provide preventive care strategies. Regular check-ups with a cardiologist are essential if heart disease runs in your family.
4. Regular Preventive Heart Care
Preventive care is a cornerstone of cardiology. Many people wait for heart disease to develop before seeking medical help, but cardiologists will tell you the importance of prevention. By visiting a cardiologist regularly, you can benefit from personalised advice on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including dietary recommendations, exercise plans, and stress management techniques.
Cardiologists also monitor key health indicators, such as blood pressure, glucose and cholesterol levels, to catch potential problems early and prevent the development of serious heart conditions.
5. Seeking a Second Opinion
If you are unsure about a diagnosis or treatment plan, seeking a second opinion from a cardiologist can provide clarity and peace of mind. We are experienced in providing comprehensive evaluations and can offer alternative perspectives on your condition.
Whether you want to confirm a diagnosis or explore different treatment options, a second opinion can help ensure that you receive the best possible care for your heart health.
Consult Healthy Heart Specialist Centre
If what we described above is aligned with what you are looking for, book a consultation with our in-house cardiologists. Remember that it is always better to err on the safe side and check up early.