Conditions We Manage
Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary artery disease occurs when fatty deposits, known as plaque, build up inside the coronary arteries - the blood vessels that supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. Over time, this build-up can cause the arteries to narrow or become blocked, reducing blood flow to the heart. Some people experience chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath, fatigue or reduced exercise tolerance, while others may have no warning symptoms. If a plaque ruptures and suddenly blocks an artery, it can cause a heart attack. Coronary artery disease usually develops gradually and is influenced by factors such as cholesterol, blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, family history and age.
High Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a fatty substance carried through the bloodstream. The body needs a certain amount of cholesterol to make healthy cells and hormones, but having too much LDL - or “bad” - cholesterol can lead to fatty deposits building up inside the arteries. HDL, often called “good” cholesterol, helps carry cholesterol away from the arteries. High cholesterol usually causes no symptoms, which means many people are unaware they have it until it is detected through a blood test. Over time, untreated high cholesterol can increase the risk of coronary artery disease, heart attack and stroke. Cholesterol levels can be affected by diet, activity levels, genetics, age and other health conditions.
Heart Valve Disease
The heart contains four valves that open and close with each heartbeat, keeping blood moving in the correct direction. Heart valve disease occurs when one or more valves become narrowed and cannot open fully, or when a valve does not close properly and allows blood to leak backwards. This can make the heart work harder to circulate blood around the body. Mild valve disease may cause no symptoms for many years, while more significant disease can cause breathlessness, fatigue, chest discomfort, dizziness, fainting, palpitations or swelling in the ankles and legs. Valve problems may be present from birth or develop later because of ageing, infection or other heart conditions.
Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation, commonly known as AF, is a heart rhythm condition affecting the upper chambers of the heart. Instead of contracting in a regular, coordinated way, these chambers quiver or beat irregularly. This can cause the heartbeat to become fast, uneven or both. Some people notice palpitations, breathlessness, tiredness, dizziness or reduced exercise capacity, while others have no noticeable symptoms. AF can come and go or become persistent. Because the upper chambers may not empty completely, blood can pool and form a clot. If a clot travels to the brain, it can cause a stroke, which is why atrial fibrillation is an important condition to recognise and monitor.
Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy is a group of conditions that affect the heart muscle. Depending on the type, the heart muscle may become enlarged, thickened, stretched, weakened or unusually stiff. These changes can make it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively or relax and fill normally. Cardiomyopathy may cause breathlessness, fatigue, chest discomfort, palpitations, dizziness, fainting or swelling in the legs and ankles, although some people have few or no symptoms. Certain forms of cardiomyopathy can run in families, while others may be associated with infection, alcohol, pregnancy, medication or other medical conditions. In some cases, the cause remains unknown.
Hypertension
Hypertension is the medical term for high blood pressure. Blood pressure measures the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps. When this pressure remains consistently too high, it places extra strain on the heart and can gradually damage the blood vessels and other organs. Hypertension often causes no obvious symptoms, which is why it is sometimes called a “silent” condition. Over time, uncontrolled high blood pressure can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, kidney disease and vision problems. Blood pressure can be influenced by genetics, age, diet, activity levels, weight, stress, alcohol, smoking and certain medical conditions.
Heart Failure
Heart failure does not mean that the heart has stopped working. It means the heart is unable to pump blood as effectively as the body needs, or that it has become too stiff to fill properly. As a result, fluid can build up in the lungs or other parts of the body. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, tiredness, reduced exercise capacity, swelling in the ankles or legs, rapid weight gain from fluid retention and difficulty breathing when lying flat. Heart failure can develop because of coronary artery disease, a previous heart attack, high blood pressure, valve disease, cardiomyopathy or an abnormal heart rhythm. It is generally a long-term condition that can vary considerably in severity.
Syncope and Arrhythmias
Syncope is the medical term for a temporary loss of consciousness caused by a brief reduction in blood flow to the brain. It is commonly described as fainting. Many episodes are harmless, but syncope can sometimes be related to low blood pressure, dehydration, medication, structural heart disease or an abnormal heart rhythm. Arrhythmias occur when the heart’s electrical system causes it to beat too quickly, too slowly or irregularly. They may cause palpitations, dizziness, breathlessness, chest discomfort, weakness or fainting, although some cause no symptoms. There are many different types of arrhythmia, ranging from minor rhythm disturbances to conditions that require prompt medical attention.
Congenital Heart Disease
Congenital heart disease refers to a difference in the structure of the heart or the major blood vessels that is present from birth. It develops while the heart is forming during pregnancy and can affect the heart’s chambers, valves, walls or blood vessels. Some congenital heart differences are mild and may never cause significant problems, while others can affect blood flow and require treatment early in life. Advances in medical and surgical care mean that many people with congenital heart disease now live well into adulthood. Even after childhood treatment, some people may develop valve problems, abnormal heart rhythms or changes in heart function later in life.
Pre-Operative Cardiac Assessment
A pre-operative cardiac assessment is an evaluation of a person’s heart health before undergoing an operation or anaesthetic. It may be recommended for people with an existing heart condition, cardiovascular risk factors, concerning symptoms or those preparing for major surgery. The assessment considers the type of operation planned, the person’s medical history, current medications, symptoms and usual level of physical activity. Depending on the individual circumstances, it may also involve an examination, electrocardiogram, blood tests or other cardiac investigations. Its purpose is to identify heart-related risks and provide the surgical and anaesthetic teams with the information needed to plan the procedure safely.
