Cardiology

Cardiology is a branch of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases related to the heart and blood vessels. Cardiologists conduct examinations within this field to assist patients in diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. In cases where factors like medication prove insufficient, interventional procedures such as angiography may be employed.

Conditions Addressed by Cardiology
The heart is undoubtedly one of the body's most vital organs. Responsible for pumping an adequate amount of blood throughout the body, the heart may, for various reasons, become unable to fulfill this critical function. One of the most commonly observed conditions arising from these challenges is heart failure. Cardiology, a specialized branch of medicine, is sought for the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up processes in various heart-related conditions, with a primary focus on heart failure. Cardiology addresses the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of the following conditions:

• Ischemic heart diseases
• Atherosclerosis
• Hypertension
• Acute coronary syndrome
• Mitral valve stenosis and insufficiency
• Aortic stenosis and insufficiency
• Myocardial infarction
• Pulmonary insufficiency and stenosis
• Tricuspid stenosis
• Endocardial diseases
• Cardiomyopathy
• Pericardial effusion
• Pericardial tamponade
• Cardiac and primary tumors
• Cardiac arrhythmias and arrest
• Atrial myxoma
• Atrial fibrillation
• Peripheral artery diseases
• Wolf Parkinson White Syndrome

Tests Performed by Cardiology

In the cardiology department, various tests are conducted to assess individuals' conditions and measure the extent of their ailments. Some of these tests include:

Exercise Stress Test (EST): This test focuses on evaluating the prevalence of coronary artery diseases, determining the disease's severity, and initiating an appropriate treatment process. 

Blood Tests: Blood tests examine heart values, including enzymes such as creatine kinase (CK), CK-MB, troponin, and hormone levels. Elevated levels of these markers may indicate heart issues. Additionally, cholesterol and sugar levels are assessed through specific tests.

Angiography: This procedure, conducted with the help of X-rays, examines arteries to identify potential constrictions. Angiography involves using a special dye to make blood flow visible, proving highly effective in diagnosing and treating diseases.

Echocardiography (ECHO): Also known as cardiac ultrasound, ECHO is used to detect heart abnormalities resulting from the death of heart muscle tissue.

Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): This test records the electrical activity of the heart using electrodes attached to the skin, helping identify signs of a heart attack and other cardiac issues. 

Holter Monitor: This device records continuous heart rhythm for 24 or 48 hours, providing valuable insights into irregularities. Despite its compact size, individuals must be cautious during its use, avoiding activities like bathing and using other electronic devices.

Radionuclide test: It is a medical examination conducted by injecting or administering radioactive isotopes into the body to assess organ functions or specific biological processes. By measuring the radiation emitted by radionuclides, information about the operational status of organs and metabolic rate is obtained.

Cardiac Catheterization: Used to diagnose coronary artery and heart diseases, this invasive test involves obtaining a biopsy and measuring heart chamber pressures through catheters.

Myocardial Perfusion Scintigraphy: This method utilizes gamma rays and is also known as a radionuclide imaging technique. It enables the examination and monitoring of heart conditions. Throughout the treatment process and post-treatment, this method is employed for tracking the affected area, providing valuable insights into the condition of the heart.