The heart is one of the most important organs in your body. When it doesn’t function properly, it can lead to serious health issues. Knowing which specialists work in a heart clinic and understanding when you should visit can help you take better care of your health.
Just so you know, heart clinics focus on treating heart-related conditions and maintaining good heart health. Read more: https://cadenceheart.sg/.
This article will guide you through the different types of specialists you’ll meet at a heart clinic in Singapore. It will also explain when it’s time to visit one and what you can typically expect while at the facility.
What Types of Specialists Work in a Heart Clinic?
Heart clinics in Singapore have a team of medical professionals who focus on heart health. These specialists are trained to handle different heart conditions, from minor issues to complex diseases. Here are the key specialists you can expect to meet at a heart clinic.
- Cardiologist: The cardiologist is the main doctor you’ll see in a heart clinic. They are trained to manage heart conditions like heart attacks, arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), and coronary artery disease. Cardiologists may use a variety of tests, including blood work, ECGs (electrocardiograms), and stress tests, to evaluate heart health. Based on the results, they create tailored treatment plans.
- Cardiothoracic Surgeon: If a heart problem requires surgery, you may be referred to a cardiothoracic surgeon in an accredited heart clinic in Singapore. These surgeons are skilled in performing operations on the heart, lungs, and other chest organs. Common surgeries include heart bypass surgeries and valve repairs. Cardiothoracic surgeons also handle heart transplants when necessary.
- Interventional Cardiologist: An interventional cardiologist specializes in minimally invasive procedures to treat heart conditions. These procedures often involve inserting small tubes, known as catheters, into blood vessels to clear blockages or repair heart valves. Interventional cardiologists are skilled in performing angioplasties, stent placements, and other procedures that can help restore normal blood flow.
- Electrophysiologist: Electrophysiologists specialize in diagnosing and treating electrical issues in the heart, such as arrhythmias. These specialists perform tests to measure the heart’s electrical activity and can offer treatments like pacemakers or catheter ablation to regulate abnormal rhythms.
- Heart Failure Specialist: If you have a chronic heart failure, you may be referred to a heart failure specialist. These doctors are experts in managing long-term heart conditions that affect the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively. They work to manage symptoms and improve the patient’s quality of life through medications, lifestyle changes, and other therapies.
When Should You Visit a Heart Clinic?
Let’s face it, knowing when to visit a heart clinic can be tricky, especially if you are unsure whether your symptoms are serious. However, there are clear signs and symptoms that indicate you should seek medical help as soon as possible.
- Chest Pain or Discomfort: Chest pain can be caused by various conditions, including heart attack, angina (chest pain caused by reduced blood flow), or other heart diseases. Get checked if you feel pressure, squeezing, or a sharp pain in your chest. You should not ignore chest discomfort, especially if it is accompanied by shortness of breath or dizziness.
- Shortness of Breath: Feeling out of breath after even minor physical activity or while resting could indicate heart problems. This may be due to heart failure, arrhythmias, or fluid buildup in the lungs. If you experience this, visit a heart clinic for an evaluation.
- Irregular Heartbeat: An irregular heartbeat, or arrhythmia, can feel like fluttering, skipping beats, or a racing heart. These conditions can range from harmless to life-threatening. If you experience this symptom frequently or it is accompanied by dizziness, fainting, or chest pain, see a specialist right away.
- Swelling in the Legs or Abdomen: Swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen can be a sign of heart failure. This happens when the heart isn’t pumping blood effectively, causing fluid to build up in the body. If you notice unusual swelling, it’s important to consult a heart specialist.
- Fatigue and Weakness: Unexplained fatigue and weakness that persist for a long time can signal heart disease. This is especially true if it’s not related to physical activity or sleep issues. If your energy levels are significantly lower than usual, it’s worth visiting a heart clinic.
What Can You Expect During Your Visit to a Heart Clinic?
When you visit a heart clinic in Singapore, you can expect a thorough evaluation of your heart health. Your doctor will begin by asking about your medical history and current symptoms.
They’ll want to know about your lifestyle, family history of heart disease, any medications you’re taking, and if you have risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, or smoking. Be prepared to discuss your symptoms openly.
The specialist will perform a physical exam to check for any obvious signs of heart disease. This may involve listening to your heart with a stethoscope, checking your blood pressure, and examining your pulse.
Depending on your symptoms, the doctor may recommend several tests. These could include an electrocardiogram (ECG), which measures electrical activity in the heart, or an echocardiogram, which uses sound waves to create images of the heart.
If needed, more advanced tests like a stress test or a coronary angiogram may be ordered. After diagnosing any heart conditions, the specialist will create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
This could include medications, lifestyle changes, or referrals to other specialists. If necessary, the doctor may discuss surgical options or interventions to treat the condition.
In Closing
Heart clinics in Singapore offer specialized care for a variety of heart conditions. With experienced professionals like cardiologists, cardiothoracic surgeons, and electrophysiologists, you’ll receive comprehensive treatment. If you’re experiencing symptoms, don’t wait—seek medical help as soon as possible.
We understand how devastating heart conditions can be especially when misdiagnosed or not treated effectively. It is because of that reason that we pay attention to patient assessment and treatment personalization. To learn more about our approach and how we can help, call or visit us at;
Cadence Heart Centre (Dr Devinder Singh) | Heart Screening, Heart Check Up | Heart Arrhythmia3
Mount Elizabeth, Medical
Centre, 14-13, Singapore – 228510
Phone: +65 6369 8789
