Angina is a feeling of pressure, squeezing or tightness in the chest that can feel like a dull, uncomfortable ache or a sharp pain. This pain could radiate to the shoulders, arms, jaw, neck or back. If you are experiencing angina, you may also feel:

• sick
• fatigue
• dizziness
• shortness of breath

Angina is itself a symptom of reduced blood flow to the heart. This is not dangerous but can signal a problem with the heart, like coronary heart disease, and requires further investigation by a cardiology specialist.

If you have not been diagnosed with angina, but are experiencing chest pain that stops after a few minutes of resting, please book an urgent appointment with our team. If the pain does not stop after a few minutes of rest, call 999 immediately.

Aortic stenosis is the narrowing of the aortic valve and/or the area immediately surrounding it. The aorta is responsible for taking freshly oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body. The aortic valve prevents blood from flowing the wrong way from the aorta and back into the heart’s left ventricle.

A build-up of calcium can narrow the aortic valve, which tends to happen as we age. When the aortic valve is thickened and hardened by this build-up, the valve can no longer function properly and restricts the flow of oxygenated blood out of the heart and into the aorta. This causes pressure build up in the heart, which must also then compensate to supply adequate blood flow.

Initially, you may not notice any symptoms, but as the condition progresses, patients may experience:

• Breathlessness during activity
• Chest pain
• A feeling of pressure or tightening in the chest that spreads to the shoulders, neck, stomach and arms
• Blackouts during periods of exertion

Aortic stenosis is typically diagnosed using an echocardiogram and may require surgery depending on the severity to relieve the pressure on the heart. This condition is non-reversible; however, with simple lifestyle changes, patients can reduce the strain on the heart during treatment.

Arrhythmia is an abnormality in the heart’s rhythm and rate. Symptoms of arrhythmia include:

• palpitations
• lightheadedness
• chest pain
• fainting

Diagnosis of this condition involves medical history assessment, physical examination, and tests like electrocardiogram (ECG) and Holter monitoring. Treatment of arrhythmia depends on the severity of the patient’s condition and may include lifestyle changes, medications, pacemaker/ICD implantation or procedures like catheter ablation. Prompt medical attention is crucial to manage arrhythmia, reduce symptoms, and minimise complications.

Atherosclerosis is characterised by plaque build-up inside the arteries, which can lead to the hardening and narrowing of blood vessels. Plaque consists of cholesterol, fat, calcium, and other substances. Symptoms may not be noticeable until the arteries narrow or block, potentially leading to chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, or even heart attack or stroke.

Diagnosis of atherosclerosis typically involves assessing medical history, performing a physical exam, and utilising diagnostic tests. Tests such as cholesterol screening, stress tests, electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, or angiography may be conducted to evaluate the extent of plaque build-up and assess the overall condition of the arteries.

Treatment for atherosclerosis aims to manage symptoms, reduce the risk of complications, and slow down the progression of the disease. Lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, smoking cessation and weight management, play a crucial role. In addition, medications may be prescribed to control cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, or prevent blood clots. In some cases, procedures like angioplasty with stent placement or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) may be necessary to restore proper blood flow to the heart.

Early detection, lifestyle modifications, and appropriate medical interventions are vital in managing atherosclerosis effectively and reducing the risk of life-threatening events such as heart attack or stroke.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a heart condition characterised by irregular and rapid electrical signals in the heart’s upper chambers (atria), causing an irregular heartbeat. Symptoms of AF may include:

• palpitations
• shortness of breath
• fatigue, dizziness
• chest discomfort

However, some individuals may not experience any noticeable symptoms.

Diagnosing atrial fibrillation involves medical history assessment, physical examination, and various tests. An electrocardiogram (ECG) is commonly used to detect and confirm AF. Additional tests like echocardiography, stress tests, or Holter monitoring may be conducted to evaluate the underlying causes and assess the overall condition of the heart.

Treatment for atrial fibrillation aims to restore and maintain a normal heart rhythm, control heart rate, and reduce the risk of complications. Depending on the individual’s condition, treatment options may include medications to control heart rhythm or rate, blood thinners to prevent blood clots and lifestyle changes such as reducing alcohol and caffeine intake. In some cases, procedures like cardioversion (restoring normal rhythm with electric shocks), catheter ablation, or surgical interventions may be recommended.

Bradycardia is a condition that causes an abnormally slow heart rate, typically below 60 beats per minute. In some cases, bradycardia may not cause any noticeable symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they may include fatigue, dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, shortness of breath and chest discomfort.

Diagnosing bradycardia involves a thorough medical history assessment, physical examination, and various tests such as an electrocardiogram or stress tests.

Treatment for bradycardia depends on the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause. Mild cases may not require treatment, while more severe or symptomatic cases may necessitate medical interventions. Treatment options may include lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding triggers like certain medications or substances or avoiding strenuous physical activity. In some cases, medications like beta-blockers or pacemaker implantation may be recommended to regulate and maintain a normal heart rate.

Heart cancer, also known as a primary cardiac tumour, is an extremely rare condition where cancerous cells develop in the tissues of the heart. It differs from tumours that spread to the heart from other body parts. Symptoms of heart cancer can vary depending on the tumour’s location, size and extent. Common signs may include chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, palpitations and fluid retention.

Diagnosing heart cancer is challenging due to its rarity and nonspecific symptoms. Medical professionals may conduct a thorough medical history assessment and physical examination and utilise various diagnostic tests. These tests may include imaging studies such as echocardiography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or computed tomography (CT) scans to visualise the tumour and evaluate its characteristics. A biopsy, where a tumour sample is obtained for laboratory analysis, may also be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment options for heart cancer depend on factors like the type, size, location, and stage of the tumour and the individual’s overall health. Treatment may involve a combination of surgery to remove the tumour, radiation therapy to target cancer cells, and chemotherapy to destroy cancerous cells.

Due to the rarity and complexity of heart cancer, a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals specialising in cardiology, oncology, and cardiac surgery is often involved in the management and treatment decisions.

It is important to note that secondary tumours or metastases from other organs are more common in the heart than primary cardiac tumours. If you suspect any cardiac abnormalities or symptoms, it is essential to consult with our healthcare professional for proper evaluation, diagnosis, and appropriate management.

Cardiac imaging refers to various techniques used to visualise the heart and its structures for diagnostic and treatment purposes. It is crucial in assessing heart health, detecting abnormalities and guiding interventions. Several imaging modalities are commonly employed in cardiac imaging, including echocardiography, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and nuclear imaging.

Echocardiography utilises sound waves to create real-time images of the heart’s structures and assess its function. It provides valuable information about the heart’s chambers, valves, and overall pumping efficiency. Stress echocardiography is also employed to evaluate the heart’s response to exercise or medications.

CT scans use X-rays and computer processing to generate detailed cross-sectional images of the heart and blood vessels. It is useful for assessing coronary artery disease, evaluating the heart’s anatomy, detecting calcium deposits, and analysing blood flow.

MRI utilises magnetic fields and radio waves to produce high-resolution images of the heart. It provides detailed information about the heart’s structure, function, blood flow, and tissue characteristics. Cardiac MRI is particularly valuable in evaluating congenital heart diseases, myocardial viability and cardiac tumours.

Nuclear imaging involves the injection of radioactive tracers into the bloodstream to evaluate heart function and blood flow. Techniques such as single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) or positron emission tomography (PET) can assess myocardial perfusion, viability and metabolism.

Cardiomyopathy refers to a group of diseases that affect the heart muscle, impairing its ability to pump blood effectively. Different types of cardiomyopathy include dilated, hypertrophic, restrictive and arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy.

Symptoms of cardiomyopathy can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common signs include:

• fatigue
• shortness of breath
• chest pain
• palpitations
• swelling of the legs and ankles
• fainting

Diagnosing cardiomyopathy involves a comprehensive medical history assessment, physical examination, and various tests. These tests may include an electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess the heart’s electrical activity, echocardiography to evaluate the heart’s structure and function, cardiac MRI or CT scans to obtain detailed images of the heart and blood tests to check for specific markers of heart damage or genetic abnormalities.

Treatment for cardiomyopathy aims to manage symptoms, slow disease progression, and prevent complications. The approach may involve lifestyle changes such as adopting a heart-healthy diet, exercising regularly, avoiding alcohol and tobacco and managing stress. Medications may be prescribed to improve heart function, control blood pressure, or manage arrhythmias. In some cases, surgical interventions like the implantation of a pacemaker, implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) or heart transplant may be necessary.

Congenital heart disease (CHD) refers to structural abnormalities of the heart that are present at birth. These abnormalities can affect the heart’s walls, valves, or blood vessels, disrupting the normal blood flow through the heart.

Symptoms and severity of CHD vary depending on the specific type and extent of the heart defect. Common symptoms include:

• cyanosis (bluish skin colour)
• rapid breathing
• poor feeding
• fatigue
• delayed growth and development
• recurrent respiratory infections

Diagnosing CHD involves a combination of prenatal screenings, physical examinations, and diagnostic tests. Prenatal ultrasounds may detect certain heart defects before birth. After birth, doctors may use techniques such as echocardiography, electrocardiography (ECG), chest X-rays, and cardiac catheterisation to evaluate the heart’s structure and function, identify specific defects and determine the severity of the condition.

Treatment options for CHD depend on the type and severity of the defect. In mild cases, regular monitoring and observation may be sufficient. In more complex cases, interventions may be necessary. Treatment can include medications to manage symptoms, surgical procedures to repair or correct defects and catheter-based interventions.

Coronary heart disease (CHD), also known as coronary artery disease (CAD), is a condition that occurs when the blood vessels supplying the heart (coronary arteries) become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of plaque. This can restrict blood flow to the heart muscle, leading to various complications.

Symptoms of coronary heart disease can vary. Common signs include:

• chest pain or discomfort (angina)
• shortness of breath
• fatigue
• rapid heartbeat
• weakness

Diagnosing coronary heart disease involves assessing medical history, conducting a physical examination and performing diagnostic tests. Tests may include an electrocardiogram (ECG) to evaluate the heart’s electrical activity, stress tests to assess the heart’s response to exercise, coronary angiography to visualise the coronary arteries and imaging tests such as CT scans or cardiac MRI to evaluate the heart’s structure and blood flow.

Treatment for coronary heart disease aims to relieve symptoms, reduce the risk of complications, and improve overall heart health. Lifestyle changes play a crucial role and may involve adopting a heart-healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, quitting smoking, and managing stress. Medications may be prescribed to control blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, prevent blood clots, or relieve angina symptoms. In more severe cases, procedures such as angioplasty with stent placement or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) may be necessary to restore proper blood flow to the heart.

A heart attack, also known as myocardial infarction (MI), occurs when the blood flow to a section of the heart muscle is severely reduced or completely blocked. This is usually due to the sudden rupture of a plaque build-up in one of the coronary arteries that supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart.

The symptoms of a heart attack can vary, but common signs include:

• chest pain or discomfort (often described as a squeezing or crushing sensation)
• shortness of breath
• pain or discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
• nausea
• lightheadedness
• cold sweats

Prompt recognition and seeking immediate medical attention are crucial for better outcomes. Call 999 if you are experiencing these symptoms or suspect you are having a heart attack.

Diagnosing a heart attack involves a combination of assessing symptoms, medical history, and performing diagnostic tests. An electrocardiogram (ECG) is typically the initial test used to evaluate the heart’s electrical activity and identify any abnormalities.

Treatment for a heart attack aims to restore blood flow to the affected area of the heart as quickly as possible. This is often done through a procedure called percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or angioplasty, where a balloon is used to open the blocked artery, and a stent may be placed to keep it open. Thrombolytic therapy (clot-busting medication) may be used if PCI is not immediately available.

Heart failure, also known as congestive heart failure, is a chronic condition in which the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. It occurs when the heart muscle becomes weakened or damaged, often as a result of conditions such as coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, or heart valve problems.

The symptoms of heart failure can vary but commonly include shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen (oedema), persistent cough or wheezing, rapid or irregular heartbeat and reduced ability to exercise.

Diagnosing heart failure involves a thorough medical history assessment, physical examination, and various diagnostic tests such as blood and imaging tests. Treatment for heart failure aims to alleviate symptoms, slow disease progression, and improve overall heart function. Medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms, lower blood pressure, reduce fluid retention and improve heart function. Lifestyle modifications such as following a low-sodium diet, limiting fluid intake, quitting smoking and engaging in regular physical activity are also recommended.

A heart murmur is an abnormal sound heard during the heartbeat cycle, typically through a stethoscope, indicating turbulent blood flow within the heart or blood vessels near the heart. It is not a disease itself but rather a symptom that various underlying conditions can cause.

Heart murmurs can be innocent (benign) or pathological. Innocent heart murmurs are common in children and often do not signify any structural abnormalities or health concerns. On the other hand, pathological heart murmurs may indicate an underlying heart condition, such as a heart valve problem, congenital heart defect or other structural abnormalities.

Symptoms of heart murmurs can vary depending on the underlying cause and severity. Innocent heart murmurs typically do not cause symptoms or pose any health risks. Pathological heart murmurs may be accompanied by symptoms such as:

• chest pain
• fatigue
• shortness of breath
• dizziness
• fainting

Diagnosing a heart murmur involves a thorough medical history assessment, physical examination and additional tests. Treatment for heart murmurs depends on the underlying condition. Innocent heart murmurs typically do not require treatment and often resolve independently over time. Pathological heart murmurs may require interventions to address the underlying cause. Treatment options can include medications to manage symptoms, and repairing or replacing damaged heart valves through surgery or minimally invasive procedures.

Heart palpitations are sensations of a rapid, fluttering, or pounding heartbeat. They may feel like their heart is racing, skipping beats or beating irregularly. Heart palpitations can occur due to various factors, including stress, anxiety, caffeine or nicotine intake, hormonal changes, medications or underlying heart conditions.

The symptoms of heart palpitations can vary from person to person. Some individuals may experience a brief episode of palpitations, while others may have more frequent or prolonged episodes. Palpitations may be accompanied by other symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, shortness of breath, chest discomfort or fainting.

Diagnosing the cause of heart palpitations involves a thorough medical history assessment, physical examination, and sometimes additional tests. Your Buckinghamshire Private Healthcare provider may inquire about your symptoms, triggers, and any underlying medical conditions. Tests such as electrocardiography (ECG), echocardiography, stress tests, or Holter monitoring (a continuous ECG recording) may be recommended to evaluate the heart’s electrical activity, structure, and rhythm.

Treatment for heart palpitations depends on the underlying cause. If palpitations are due to non-cardiac factors such as stress or caffeine, lifestyle modifications may be suggested, such as stress reduction techniques, avoiding triggers or reducing caffeine intake. In cases where an underlying heart condition is identified, treatment may involve managing the underlying condition through medications, procedures, or surgery.

Heart valve disease refers to conditions in which one or more of the heart’s valves are affected, leading to impaired blood flow through the heart. The heart valves are crucial in ensuring blood flows in the correct direction.

Symptoms of heart valve disease can vary depending on the specific valve affected and the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

• shortness of breath
• fatigue
• chest pain or discomfort
• palpitations
• swelling in the ankles, feet, or abdomen (oedema)
• lightheadedness or fainting

Diagnosing heart valve disease involves a comprehensive evaluation that may include a medical history assessment, physical examination, imaging tests such as echocardiography, electrocardiography (ECG), cardiac catheterisation and stress tests. These tests help assess the structure and function of the heart valves, determine the severity of the disease and evaluate any associated complications.

Treatment options for heart valve disease depend on the type and severity of the condition. In mild cases, regular monitoring and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms or control underlying conditions. Surgical interventions such as valve repair or replacement may be necessary for more severe cases.

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a chronic condition characterised by persistently elevated blood pressure levels. It occurs when the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high, putting extra strain on the heart and blood vessels.

High blood pressure often does not cause noticeable symptoms, earning it the nickname “the silent killer.” However, it can lead to serious health complications over time, including an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney problems and other cardiovascular conditions.

Diagnosing high blood pressure involves measuring blood pressure using a blood pressure cuff, a stethoscope or an automated device. Blood pressure readings are recorded as systolic pressure (the top number) and diastolic pressure (the bottom number). Normal blood pressure is typically around 120/80 mmHg. Consistently elevated readings of 130/80 mmHg or higher may indicate high blood pressure.

Treatment for high blood pressure aims to lower and control blood pressure levels to reduce the risk of complications. Lifestyle modifications play a significant role, including adopting a healthy diet, reducing sodium intake, regular physical activity, weight management, limiting alcohol consumption and quitting smoking.

High cholesterol refers to elevated levels of cholesterol in the blood. Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance essential for the body’s normal functioning. However, when levels become too high, it can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart disease and stroke.

High cholesterol often does not cause noticeable symptoms on its own. Instead, it is typically diagnosed through a blood test that measures the levels of different types of cholesterol, including low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and triglycerides.

Treatment for high cholesterol involves a combination of lifestyle modifications and, in some cases, medications. Lifestyle changes may include adopting a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fats, trans fats and cholesterol while emphasising fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. Regular exercise, weight management, and smoking cessation are essential in managing cholesterol levels.

Medications may be prescribed to lower cholesterol levels, mainly when lifestyle changes alone are insufficient. Commonly prescribed medications include statins, which help reduce LDL cholesterol production in the liver, and other drugs targeting specific aspects of cholesterol metabolism.

Myocarditis is a condition characterised by inflammation of the heart muscle, known as the myocardium. It can occur due to various causes, including viral or bacterial infections, certain medications, autoimmune disorders or exposure to toxins.

The symptoms of myocarditis can vary widely and range from mild to severe. Some individuals may experience flu-like symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, muscle aches, and sore throat. Others may have symptoms related to the heart, including chest pain or discomfort, rapid or irregular heartbeat (arrhythmias), shortness of breath, swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet (oedema) and fainting.

Diagnosing myocarditis involves a combination of medical history assessment, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. Blood tests may be conducted to check for signs of inflammation, infection, or specific antibodies. Imaging tests, such as echocardiography or cardiac MRI, can help evaluate the structure and function of the heart. In some cases, a heart biopsy may be performed to examine a small tissue sample for signs of inflammation.

Treatment for myocarditis focuses on managing symptoms, reducing inflammation, and supporting heart function. Rest, over-the-counter pain relievers and close monitoring may be sufficient in mild cases. In more severe cases or when complications arise, hospitalisation may be required. Medications, such as anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants, or medications to support heart function, may be prescribed. Advanced interventions, such as ventricular assist devices (VADs) or heart transplantation, may be necessary in rare instances.

Pericarditis is a condition characterised by inflammation of the pericardium, the thin sac-like membrane surrounding and protecting the heart. Various factors, including viral or bacterial infections, autoimmune disorders, certain medications or underlying medical conditions, can cause it.

The symptoms of pericarditis can vary in severity and duration. Common symptoms include sharp or stabbing chest pain, which may worsen with deep breathing or lying down, a low-grade fever, fatigue, shortness of breath and a dry or productive cough. Some individuals may also experience a sensation of palpitations or a feeling of heaviness in the chest.

Diagnosing pericarditis involves a combination of medical history assessment, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. Using a stethoscope, your Buckinghamshire Private Healthcare provider may listen to the heart for abnormal sounds. Additional tests, such as electrocardiography (ECG), echocardiography, blood tests or imaging studies like a chest X-ray or cardiac MRI, may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and evaluate the extent of inflammation.

Treatment for pericarditis aims to relieve symptoms, reduce inflammation, and prevent complications. In mild cases, over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or aspirin, may be recommended to manage pain and reduce inflammation. In more severe cases or when symptoms persist, prescription-strength medications, such as colchicine or corticosteroids, may be prescribed. Antibiotic or antiviral medications may be necessary if an underlying infection is present.

Ventricular fibrillation is a life-threatening cardiac arrhythmia characterised by rapid and chaotic electrical activity in the ventricles, the heart’s lower chambers. This abnormal rhythm prevents the heart from effectively pumping blood to the body and can lead to cardiac arrest.

Ventricular fibrillation typically occurs due to underlying heart conditions, such as coronary artery disease, heart attack, heart failure or certain inherited heart disorders.

The symptoms of ventricular fibrillation include sudden loss of consciousness, lack of pulse, and cessation of normal breathing. VF is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention to restore a normal heart rhythm and prevent irreversible damage or death.

The immediate treatment for ventricular fibrillation is cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) followed by defibrillation. After defibrillation, advanced cardiac life support measures are initiated to stabilise the patient, address the underlying cause, and prevent a recurrence. Long-term management after experiencing ventricular fibrillation involves identifying and treating any underlying heart conditions. This may include medications to control blood pressure, cholesterol, or heart rhythm and lifestyle modifications like adopting a heart-healthy diet, exercising regularly and avoiding triggers such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption.

Ventricular tachycardia (VT) is a rapid heart rhythm originating from the ventricles (the heart’s lower chambers). It is characterised by a series of consecutive, fast heartbeats that exceed the normal resting heart rate.

Ventricular tachycardia often occurs due to underlying heart conditions, such as coronary artery disease, heart attack, heart failure or structural abnormalities in the heart. Certain factors, including electrolyte imbalances, drug side effects or inherited heart disorders, can also contribute to the development of this condition.

Symptoms of ventricular tachycardia can vary depending on the duration and rapidity of the heart rhythm. Some individuals may experience palpitations, a rapid and irregular pulse, dizziness, lightheadedness, chest discomfort or shortness of breath. In some cases, ventricular tachycardia may lead to loss of consciousness or even cardiac arrest.

Diagnosing ventricular tachycardia involves a combination of medical history assessment, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. The treatment of ventricular tachycardia aims to restore a normal heart rhythm, alleviate symptoms, and prevent complications. Treatment choice depends on the individual’s clinical condition, underlying heart disease and the frequency and severity of VT episodes.