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Yeah, we know, the headline seems corny! This article is not a song about that Australian pop group Indecent Obsession. This story is about Filipino cardiologists who can fix broken heart syndrome and other cardiovascular diseases.
We might pull some Karaoke tunes at the bottom of this article. But for now, we will discuss topics that revolve around cardiology, symptoms, diagnostics, treatments, and prevention. We will also discuss the broken heart syndrome to justify our headline.
What is Cardiology?
Cardiology is an internal medicine medical specialty that deals with diagnosing, treating, and preventing heart disease. Cardiology is divided into three main branches: cardiology, cardiovascular medicine, and vascular medicine.
Cardiovascular diseases are among the most common causes of death in men and women worldwide. They include coronary artery disease (CAD), stroke, angina pectoris, peripheral arterial disease (PAD), heart failure, arrhythmia, and sudden cardiac death. The definition of cardiology may vary depending on who you ask, which country, and their educational background. But generally, it refers to the study and treatment of diseases and disorders of the heart and blood vessels.
The primary goal of cardiology is to prevent or reduce the severity of these cardiovascular diseases.
What is a Cardiologist?
A cardiologist is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of heart disease. They are responsible for diagnosing and treating heart problems, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias. They may also specialize in other areas of cardiology, such as cardiac surgery or heart rhythm disorders. Cardiologists typically work in medical centers or clinics, but they may also work in private practice.
What is Broken Heart Syndrome? How Filipino Cardiologists Can Help?
Broken heart syndrome is a condition that results when the heart becomes unable to pump blood effectively. There are several factors that impact a person’s health with broken heart syndrome, including an irregular heartbeat, a congenital heart defect, or a previous heart attack. Cardiologists are responsible for diagnosing and treating broken heart syndrome. They may prescribe medications to help the heart pump more effectively or surgery to correct the underlying cause of the problem. In some cases, cardiologists may also recommend cardiac rehabilitation to help patients regain their strength and fitness after a broken heart.
Filipino Cardiologists: What Illness Do They Treat?
What are the common treatments for cardiovascular diseases?
Heart disease is the number one cause of death in Asia and the Pacific. It is also the leading cause of death for Filipinos. The most common heart disease is coronary artery disease when plaque build-up in the arteries causes them to narrow or block blood flow to the heart. There are many treatments for cardiovascular diseases, and each patient’s treatment depends on their situation. Some treatments include medications, surgery, and lifestyle changes.
Heart attack
A heart attack is a medical emergency that can happen when the heart muscle becomes damaged. Heart attack can cause excruciating chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. A person experiencing a heart attack will experience sudden and severe pain in the chest that a blocked artery can cause. A cardiologist can help by placing a stent in the artery to open it up and relieve the pressure. If left untreated, a heart attack can lead to death.
Most heart attacks occur in people who are older than 65 years old. But anyone can experience a heart attack, regardless of their age or health condition. Filipino cardiologists are experts at treating heart attacks and other cardiovascular problems. They may use traditional methods such as surgery or medication to fix the problem. Or they may recommend lifestyle changes such as exercise or weight loss to help improve your overall health.
Heart failure
Heart failure is a condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. Many different things may cause heart failure, including age, heart disease, and other health problems. Filipino cardiologists are experts in treating heart failure and can help patients stay healthy and live longer. They use a variety of treatments to help restore blood flow to the heart and improve overall health.
Heart valve disease
Heart valve disease is a condition that affects the heart’s valves. The valves are small pieces of tissue that allow blood to flow from the left ventricle (the largest chamber in the heart) to the right ventricle (the most miniature chamber in the heart). Valve disease can cause problems with blood flow, which can lead to heart failure. Filipino cardiologists are experts in treating valve disease and other cardiac issues. They can help patients restore normal blood flow and improve their quality of life.
Arrhythmia
Arrhythmia is a medical condition that refers to the irregular and uncontrolled beating of the heart. When Arrhythmia occurs in patients with heart disease, it can lead to serious health complications. There are various factors that lead to Arrhythmia, including genetics, lifestyle choices, and medical conditions. Filipino cardiologists are well-trained in diagnosing and treating Arrhythmia. They can help patients restore their heart health and prevent further complications.
High blood pressure
High blood pressure is a condition in which the blood vessels in the heart and other organs are too narrow, causing the blood to flow too quickly through them. This can damage these organs, leading to heart disease, stroke, and even death.
Many factors can contribute to high blood pressure, including obesity, genetics, age, and lifestyle choices. Filipino cardiologists are well-equipped to treat this condition with a combination of medications and lifestyle changes. By working together with patients to identify their individual risk factors and treat them accordingly, Filipino cardiologists can help prevent or reduce the severity of high blood pressure episodes.
Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis is a condition that affects the arteries, leading to heart disease. It’s caused by the build-up of plaque and fat on the walls of the arteries. Filipino cardiologists are well-trained in treating atherosclerosis, and they can help restore your artery health and prevent heart disease.
Atrial fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation is a condition in which the heart’s upper chambers (atria) quiver and shake instead of beating in a regular rhythm. It can be life-threatening, and Filipino cardiologists are well-equipped to treat it.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the Philippines, and atrial fibrillation is one of the most common heart problems there. In fact, it’s so common that almost half of all Filipino adults will experience it at some point in their lives.
Most people with atrial fibrillation have no symptoms until the condition becomes life-threatening. As the quivering and shaking become more frequent, the heart may start to lose its ability to pump blood effectively. If left untreated, atrial fibrillation can lead to heart failure and death.
Arrhythmias
Arrhythmias are medical conditions that affect the heart rhythm. They can range from mild to life-threatening and can occur at any age. They can help restore a healthy heart rhythm by using medications and procedures such as cardiac ablation or catheterization. Filipino cardiologists are well-trained in diagnosing and treating arrhythmias, which is why they are so important in the treatment of heart disease.
Congenital heart disease
Congenital heart disease (CHD) is a congenital disability in the heart that can be fatal if not treated. CHD affects births in the Philippines, and it is more common in males than females. There are four types of CHD: single ventricle, double ventricle, tricuspid atresia, and pulmonary atresia. In single ventricle CHD, the left ventricle (the big muscle that pumps blood out of your heart) is smaller than usual and doesn’t work correctly. This can cause low blood pressure and problems with oxygen supply to the body. In double ventricle CHD, there are two smaller left ventricles instead of one and tricuspid atresia; the third valve between the two ventricles is missing. This can lead to high blood pressure, a lack of oxygen supply to the body, and death. In pulmonary atresia, the fourth valve between the left and right ventricles isn’t present. This can cause low blood pressure and problems with oxygen supply to the body.
Coronary heart disease
Coronary heart disease is a condition in which the heart becomes diseased and can no longer pump blood effectively. It is the number one killer in Asia, and it disproportionately affects people from ethnic minority groups, such as Filipinos. Filipino cardiologists have a wealth of experience treating heart disease, and they are well-equipped to help patients recover from their condition. They can prescribe medications and treatments to improve circulation and reduce inflammation in the heart and provide support during cardiac rehabilitation programs. By working with Filipino cardiologists, patients can ensure that they receive the best possible care for their heart condition.
Congestive heart disease
Congestive heart disease (CHD) is a condition that affects the heart and circulatory system. It is the most common cardiovascular disease, leading to heart failure, stroke, and death. CHD is caused by a build-up of plaque in the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle. Over time, this can cause blockages in the arteries, which can cause chest pain or difficulty breathing.
Filipino cardiologists are well-trained in diagnosing and treating CHD. They may use various treatments, including medications, surgery, and angioplasty (a procedure used to open up blocked arteries). Filipino cardiologists are also skilled at providing ongoing care for patients with CHD.
High blood cholesterol and triglycerides
High blood cholesterol and triglycerides are two critical indicators of heart disease. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including obesity, genetics, and lifestyle choices. High blood cholesterol and triglycerides can increase your risk for heart disease, stroke, and other serious health problems if left untreated.
Filipino cardiologists can help you get your blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels under control. They may recommend lifestyle changes such as weight loss or exercise, or they may prescribe medication to lower your levels. If you have high blood cholesterol or triglycerides, it’s essential to see a Filipino cardiologist as soon as possible to start treatment.
Hypertension
Hypertension is a condition in which the blood pressure is higher than average. It can be caused by many things, including obesity, smoking, and a high cholesterol level.
Many Filipino cardiologists are experts in diagnosing and treating hypertension. They may prescribe medications to lower blood pressure, or they may recommend lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise to help prevent it from becoming a problem in the future.
Pericarditis
Pericarditis is a condition that affects the pericardium, the sac that surrounds the heart. It can be caused by some factors, including viruses, bacteria, and other irritants. When pericarditis is severe, it can cause chest pain and shortness of breath. Filipino cardiologists are experts in diagnosing and treating pericarditis, and they can help patients improve their health quickly.
Ventricular tachycardia
Ventricular tachycardia is a heart rhythm disorder that can cause an individual’s heart rate to increase rapidly and unpredictably. This can be a life-threatening condition, and Filipino cardiologists are well-equipped to treat it. They may use medications or devices to restore the heart’s normal rhythm, or they may surgically implant a pacemaker. In some cases, ventricular tachycardia can be treated with ablation (burning) of the heart’s electrical impulses.
Visiting Several Filipino Cardiologists: What to Expect?
If you are experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeat, it is crucial to see a health professional as soon as possible. A cardiologist is an excellent resource for diagnosing and treating heart conditions.
A typical visit to the cardiologist may include a medical history and physical exam. The cardiologist may also perform tests to measure heart function and blood pressure. If the doctor suspects a heart problem, he or she may order tests to confirm the diagnosis.
Here are some tests that Filipino cardiologists will conduct during your visit
EKG
There are many reasons why Filipino cardiologists are using electrocardiography (EKG / ECG). One reason is that EKG can be used to diagnose heart problems. EKG can also help cardiologists determine the severity of a heart problem and help plan the best course of treatment. Additionally, EKG can be used to monitor patients during treatment.
Cardiac catheterization
Cardiac catheterization allows doctors to diagnose and treat problems with the heart quickly and effectively. Filipino cardiologists are using cardiac catheterization more often than other cardiologists in the United States. This is likely because Filipino patients have a higher incidence of heart disease and heart failure.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound is a type of medical imaging that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of internal body structures. Filipino cardiologists often use ultrasound to diagnose and treat heart disease, as the sound waves penetrate the skin and tissues more quickly than other types of imaging techniques. Ultrasound can also be used to measure heart size and function, determine the presence or absence of tumors, and image the heart muscle.
Cardiac biopsy
There are many reasons why Filipino cardiologists are using cardiac biopsy. One reason is that cardiac biopsy is a more accurate way to diagnose heart disease than other methods, such as x-rays or scans. A cardiac biopsy also allows cardiologists to see the inside of a person’s heart and identify any problems with it. This information can help them treat the person’s heart condition and prevent further damage.
Stress test
The use of stress tests by Filipino cardiologists is due to the high incidence of heart disease and stroke in the Philippines. In fact, heart disease and stroke are the leading causes of death in the Philippines. The use of stress tests can help identify people who are at a higher risk for developing heart disease or stroke.
When Should Patients See Filipino Cardiologists?
When it comes to heart health, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. That’s why, in addition to working with other specialists as needed, Filipino cardiologists often treat patients with heart conditions.
One of the most common issues Filipino cardiologists can help with is a broken heart. This is due to the fact that Filipino culture places a lot of emphasis on family and relationships. When a loved one experiences a broken heart, it can lead to significant physical and emotional damage.
If you’re experiencing symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath, see a Filipino cardiologist as soon as possible. They may be able to help you get back on your feet and live a healthy life.
Common Types of Cardiovascular Diseases Among Filipinos
There are different types of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) that affect Filipinos, which is why it is vital for Filipino cardiologists to be familiar with these conditions. Some of the most common CVDs in the Philippines include coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke, and hypertension.
It is also important to note that Filipinos have a higher risk of developing these conditions because of their genetics and lifestyle choices. For example, people who are overweight or obese are at a higher risk for developing CHD, while people who consume high levels of saturated fats and cholesterol are also at risk for stroke.
In addition, Filipino women have a higher incidence of hypertension than women in other countries, which may be due to factors such as diet and stress.
The prevalence of CVDs in the Philippines is high because Filipino love to eat unhealthy food. For example, most birthday parties and celebrations in the Philippines will have a roast pig (also known as Lechon), deep-fried pork leg (crispy pata), and tons of sweets. Another culprit is the side dishes during drinks and spirits. Filipino love to eat fried pork skin (chicharon) and salty crisps on the side.
What to Expect at an Appointment With a Pinoy Cardiologist?
When you visit a Filipino cardiologist, you may expect to undergo a physical exam, have blood drawn and urine tested, and have a chest x-ray. The Pinoy cardiology physician may discuss your health history and symptoms and recommend tests or treatments during your appointment. The cardiologist may also perform an electrocardiogram (ECG) or cardiac catheterization if you have heart disease.
Conclusion: Filipino Cardiologists
Filipino cardiologists are some of the best in the world when it comes to diagnosing, treating, and preventing heart diseases. This is due to the fact that they have a lot of experience in the field and are well-trained in the latest medical techniques. They also use the latest technology to help them make accurate diagnoses.
While there is always room for improvement, Filipino cardiologists have proven time and time again that they are up for the challenge. With their expertise and passion for medicine, they will continue to help people live healthier lives by “fixing a broken heart.”
Sources:
- Harvard Medical School
- American Heart Association
- Johns Hopkins Medicine
- Massachusetts Medical Society
- American Medical Association
- The American Journal of Cardiology
- American College of Cardiology
- University of Utah Health
- University of Rochester Medical Center Rochester
- Cleaveland Clinic
- Philippine Heart Association
- Philippine Heart Center
