A healthy heart is vital for overall well-being. So, regular check-ups with a heart doctor in Singapore, as advised by your GP or other specialists, are crucial.
This is because maintaining heart health involves a combination of factors. In fact, ignoring appointments might lead to overlooked warning signs of potential issues.
These appointments allow for early detection and management of conditions to prevent complications that may otherwise turn deadly. Keep reading to see how the heart doctor can tell if your heart is failing and most importantly, how to prepare for an appointment with a heart doctor, also known as the cardiologist.
How can Doctors Tell if your Heart is failing?
Usually, you can expect your GP to only refer you to a specialist like a heart doctor in Singapore if you’re dealing with a complex issue beyond their scope of their specialization. So, if you’ve just been recommended an appointment with a cardiologist you may wonder; what is one of the first signs of heart failure? And how do you confirm heart failure or how can doctors tell if your heart is failing?
When it comes to maintaining a healthy heart, there is no better way to be able to recognize the early signs of heart failure. And that best explains why so many people ask; what is one of the first signs of heart failure?
Now, one of the first signs of heart failure is shortness of breath, especially during activity or while lying down. This symptom could indicate the heart struggling to pump effectively. Other than shortness of breath, the other symptoms of potential heart failure include;
- Persistent fatigue
- Swelling in the legs, abdomen, or other areas which indicates fluid retention
- Sudden weight gain and a persistent cough, often with pink or white phlegm
- Increased heart rate
- Dizziness, and
- Difficulty concentrating
If you notice these warning signs in you or a loved one, seek medical attention as soon as possible. As with many other conditions, early detection of heart disease allows for tailored treatments for the best treatment outcomes.
Now that you understand the first signs of a potentially failing heart you may be wondering; how do you confirm heart failure? Here’s a roundup of how your heart doctor in Singapore can confirm or tell if your heart is failing;
An assessment of symptoms and risk factors
To tell if your heart is failing, the first things your heart doctor in Singapore will want to look at are the symptoms. This means that you may be asked if you’ve been experiencing symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs which can all be indicative of heart failure.
Besides the symptoms, a good heart doctor in Singapore will also explore your medical and family history among other risk factors. This assessment allows for a comprehensive understanding of potential triggers.
Use of Assessments
To confirm heart failure, your heart doctor may turn to assessments like advanced imaging. Here is a summary of the tests that can be used to confirm heart failure;
- Echocardiograms: These tests use sound waves to create detailed images of your heart’s structure and function. The images created here help in assessing the pumping ability and identifying abnormalities.
- B-type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) blood test: This tool measures a hormone released during heart failure.
- Electrocardiograms (ECG or EKG): These tests record the heart’s electrical activity to pinpoint irregularities. Stress tests may also be used to evaluate heart function during exertion to pinpoint issues not apparent at rest. Holter monitors track heart activity over 24 hours, aiding in diagnosing intermittent problems.
- Cardiac catheterization: These tests involve the insertion of a thin tube into blood vessels. It allows for direct measurement of pressure and identifying blockages.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): In heart health assessment, this tool helps gather detailed images which can also help in pinpointing structural issues.
A crucial aspect is the evaluation of ejection fraction which measures the heart’s pumping efficiency. Also, chest X-rays may be used to reveal heart enlargement or fluid buildup.
How do you prepare for a Heart Check-up?
Being recommended a visit to a heart doctor in Singapore doesn’t necessarily reveal that your heart is failing so, do not panic. The tests you get at the facility will be key in getting a clear picture of the condition of your heart. That said, here are some tips to prepare for a heart checkup.
Understand Your Family History and Medical Background
Begin by gathering information about your family’s heart health history. Note any instances of heart disease, high blood pressure, or other cardiovascular issues among close relatives.
Your heart doctor will need this insight to assess potential genetic predispositions. Also, compile your personal medical history. This includes any previous heart-related concerns, surgeries, or medications you’ve had or used.
Maintain a Detailed Symptom Log
In the days leading to your appointment, you will want to keep a detailed record of any symptoms you may be experiencing. In this symptom log, note the frequency, duration, and intensity of symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue.
This log serves as valuable information for your healthcare provider. It can help with accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning, so be honest and specific about your symptoms, even if they seem minor.
Review and Organize Medications
Compile a list of all the medications you are currently taking. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements.
Ensure you provide accurate information about dosages and frequency. This medication list is integral for assessing potential interactions or side effects that might impact your heart health. Importantly, your heart doctor in Singapore will need this information to tailor their recommendations and prescriptions based on your specific needs.
Prepare Questions and Concerns
A good heart doctor in Singapore will be willing to answer questions and address any concerns you may have about you or your loved one’s heart health. So, feel free to compile a list of questions and concerns to discuss with the doctor during the heart check-up.
This might include queries about your overall heart health, potential risk factors, lifestyle modifications, or treatment options. You will want to address these concerns to enhance the effectiveness of the appointment and ensure open communication between you and your healthcare team. Also, don’t hesitate to seek clarification on any medical jargon or concepts you find challenging to grasp.
In Closing
There are several things that your heart doctor in Singapore can do to check if your heart is failing. Provided that you find a board-certified heart doctor, you can count on them to help you get to the root of your heart health.
To learn more about how your heart doctor can help, or schedule an appointment for thorough assessments, call or visit us at;
Cadence Heart Center
Mt Elizabeth Hospital, 3 Mount Elizabeth #14-13
Mt Elizabeth Medical Centre, Singapore 228510
(65) 8318 9884
(65) 6369 8789
(65) 6369 2789
enquiry@cadenceheart.sg
https://cadenceheart.sg/