General Cardiology

Arrhythmias :  An arrhythmia denotes an irregular heart rhythm, categorized into two types: bradycardia (when your heart rate is too slow, less than 60 beats per minute) and tachycardia (when your heart rate is too fast, more than 100 beats per minute). Bradycardia may result in insufficient blood supply to your body, while tachycardia can occur even at rest.

Cardiomyopathy : Cardiomyopathy is a condition that affects the heart muscle, leading to its stretching, thickening, or stiffening. Consequently, the heart loses its capacity to pump an adequate amount of blood throughout your body.

Coronary Artery Disease : This condition occurs when a waxy substance, called plaque, accumulates within the coronary arteries. Plaque narrows the arteries, hindering the flow of blood to the heart and causing angina or chest discomfort. Additionally, plaque can instigate blood clots, precipitating a heart attack.

Heart Failure : Contrary to its name, heart failure doesn’t signify that your heart has ceased functioning. It implies that your heart struggles to pump a sufficient volume of blood to meet your body’s needs. This can be attributed to the enlargement or thickening of the heart, which compromises its ability to contract and relax effectively.

Heart Valve Disease : Your heart comprises four valves, responsible for directing blood flow in the correct direction with each heartbeat. Heart valve disease arises when these valves do not function optimally, possibly due to stiffening or inadequate closure. This leads to increased strain on the heart.

Myxomas : Myxomas are non-cancerous growths within the heart. They can vary in size, from a few millimeters to several centimeters.

Pulmonary Hypertension : Pulmonary hypertension is a form of elevated blood pressure affecting the arteries supplying blood to your lungs. When these arteries narrow or stiffen, the right side of the heart has to work harder to pump blood into the lungs.

Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection (SCAD) : Spontaneous coronary artery dissection is characterized by the sudden formation of a tear within the layers of one or more coronary arteries. This tear can obstruct blood flow to the heart, resulting in a heart attack.

Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy (Broken Heart Syndrome) : Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, also known as “Broken Heart Syndrome,” involves a sudden weakening of the heart muscle. This condition is typically triggered by severe emotional or physical stress and is often temporary, with most individuals recovering within two months.  In your journey towards better heart health, it is essential to understand your specific heart condition, follow your treatment plan, and embrace a heart-healthy lifestyle. The choices you make today can significantly impact your future heart health.