Private cardiology in Harley Street

Cardiology is a medical speciality that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and disorders related to the heart and blood vessels. Cardiologists are highly trained physicians who specialise in managing conditions such as heart attacks, heart failure, arrhythmias, and coronary artery disease. They utilise various diagnostic tests and procedures to assess cardiac health and develop personalised treatment plans for their patients. Additionally, cardiology plays a crucial role in promoting heart health through preventive measures like lifestyle modifications and risk factor management.

During a cardiology appointment, the cardiologist will typically review the patient's medical history and perform a relevant physical examination. They may also order diagnostic tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), an echocardiogram, or a stress test to assess the overall cardiac function. Additionally, the cardiologist may discuss lifestyle changes, prescribe medications, or recommend further treatment options, including interventional and non-interventional procedures. Interventional procedures may include angioplasty or stenting to open blocked arteries, while non-interventional options may involve lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, or optimal medication for conditions like high blood pressure or cholesterol. The cardiologist will also provide guidance on managing risk factors and offer preventive measures to maintain overall good heart health. 

If you are experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or an irregular heartbeat, it may be necessary to visit a cardiologist. Additionally, if you have a family history of heart disease or risk factors like high blood pressure or high cholesterol, seeking preventive care and screenings from a cardiologist is recommended. However, you may need to consult your primary care physician first, who can then refer you to a cardiologist if necessary. It is important to remember that only a medical professional can accurately assess your specific situation and determine if a visit to a cardiologist is needed. 

24 hours before:

• Eat normally but do not have anything that may contain caffeine for example, tea, coffee, fizzy drinks, or chocolate.
• You must not smoke or use products containing nicotine

On the day:

• You can drink plenty of water or juice to keep hydrated.
• Do not use lotion or oil on the chest area as this makes it difficult for the ECG electrodes to attach.

The best cardiac screening tests vary depending on the individual's risk factors and medical history. Some commonly recommended tests include the electrocardiogram (ECG), stress test, echocardiogram, coronary CT, and coronary angiography. These tests help evaluate heart function, detect abnormalities, and assess the risk of heart disease or other cardiac conditions. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine which screening tests are most appropriate for your specific situation. 

A cardiologist is a medical specialist who focuses specifically on diagnosing and treating diseases and conditions of the heart. On the other hand, "heart doctor" is a broader term that can refer to any healthcare professional, including cardiologists, who specialise in various aspects of heart health, such as cardiac surgery, cardiac electrophysiology, cardiac imaging, or interventional cardiology.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a global health issue that affects the heart and blood vessels. This category of diseases mainly includes conditions like coronary artery disease, heart failure, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. CVD is the leading cause of death worldwide, claiming countless lives each year. Risk factors for developing CVD are numerous and include high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, smoking, obesity, and leading a sedentary lifestyle. It's important to prioritise a healthy lifestyle and manage these risk factors to help prevent the onset of this deadly illness.

All patients are entitled to have a chaperone present for any consultation, examination, or procedure if they feel it is necessary. This chaperone may be a family member or friend. Sometimes it may be necessary for a formal chaperone (for example, a trained member of staff) to be present. Please let us know before your appointment if you would like a chaperone.