Cardiology is the branch of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of heart and blood vessel conditions. The heart is a vital organ that pumps blood throughout the body, and any disorder in its function can impact overall health. Cardiologists are specialists who handle a wide range of cardiovascular diseases, from hypertension (high blood pressure) to heart attacks and arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats).
Key Areas of Cardiology:
● Coronary Artery Disease: This is a condition where the arteries supplying blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked, leading to chest pain (angina) or heart attacks.
● Heart Failure: When the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently, causing symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling.
● Arrhythmias: These are irregular heartbeats that can be too fast, too slow, or erratic, potentially leading to dangerous complications.
● Valvular Heart Disease: Involves the dysfunction of heart valves, leading to problems like heart murmurs and poor blood circulation.
● Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): A major risk factor for many heart-related conditions, including strokes and heart failure.