How do doctors examine the blocking of the heart?
The heart is one of the most critical components of the human body, which is responsible for life. It is only due to the functions of the heart that a human being can sustain adequately. In such a type of situation,
The heart is one of the most critical components of the human body, which is responsible for life. It is only due to the functions of the heart that a human being can sustain adequately. In such a type of situation, it becomes crucial to mention that sometimes due to the clotting of the blood or due to the thickening of the blood, the arteries, which are responsible for bringing the blood and taking away the blood from and away from the heart, get blocked.
Issues that matter
A human being develops the risk of contracting coronary artery diseases and vein blockage problems because of this problem. As a part of this particular problem, it becomes technically impossible for the individual to receive proper blood to the heart and even take away the impure blood from the heart.
In light of these problems, the quantity of oxygen supplied to the heart in the form of blood reduces significantly. Due to all of these problems, the risk of heart failure increases. That is why doctors mainly used certain conditions of examinations to conduct a regular assessment of the heart and find the same blocking.
Why do blockages occur?
The heart is composed of many essential cells that continuously beat to keep the body alive. As a result, it requires a lot of nutrients and oxygen. In such a situation, if the channels that bring the nutrients and the oxygen to the heart get clogged, the necessary supply would not be made to nature, and ultimately, the heart would start depleting. It can also result in the on-the-spot death of the person.
How do doctors examine the blocking of the heart?
CT scan is commonly used as a proper scanning method of the heart in which different parts are examined, including the different types of arteries and veins. As a part of this test, it becomes possible for the doctor to conduct an ultrasound to investigate the possibility of blocking inside the heart. It is also helpful to determine the risk of cardiovascular diseases a particular person faces. In light of these changes, even different heart functioning types are examined. An attempt is also made to determine blood flow to the heart. Accordingly, the extent to which the artery and the vein have been blocked gets accessible with the help of this test.
When is there a need to conduct a CT scan?
Once a person starts developing coronary artery disease, many different symptoms develop in that person. The body cannot respond appropriately in most situations, and there are various indications that the heart of the person is not functioning well. The list of the essential types of symptoms that must be observed in the first place has been given in the following way.
Breathlessness
A person cannot breathe correctly, and an individual may fall and breathe even in a very mild activity. In such a situation, it becomes essential to discover that something is incorrect with the body and has to be examined instantly.
Heart attack
Heart attack is considered one of the most common symptoms that directly indicate the occurrence of Des particular kind of disease in the human body. It is essential to understand that developing the risk of heart attack due to the blockages is very common, and most of the time, these blockages are opened with the help of a stunt.
Conclusion
The heart is one of the most crucial organs in the body, and proper monitoring of it is necessary to keep it in good shape. CT scan is used to identify the calcium deposit and blockages in the heart arteries.
Learn About The Serious Risks Posed By A Silent Heart Attack
If you are wondering, what’s a silent heart attack? It’s nothing but a minor heart attack that doesn’t show any symptoms of a regular heart attack. If you get diagnosed on time, these heart attacks can help you
If you are wondering, what’s a silent heart attack? It’s nothing but a minor heart attack that doesn’t show any symptoms of a regular heart attack. If you get diagnosed on time, these heart attacks can help you figure out the blockage you have in your arteries. However, it is difficult to get these attacks diagnosed since they don’t come with any symptoms. But, is there anything to be scared of with these heart attacks, given they can’t be fatal? Yes, even though these attacks can’t be fatal, they pose serious risks to your health. What are the risks? Let’s discuss it.
Risks Posed By A Silent Heart Attack
More Heart Attacks In The Future
A silent heart attack is an indication of the blockages you are beginning to form in your arteries. If they are left unchecked and no lifestyle changes are done accordingly, the blockages are increased, and you will be much more susceptible to serious heart attacks. A full-fledged heart attack can be fatal, so getting regular checkups is the only way for you to diagnose if you have silent heart attacks. This stands for anyone that is at a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Deadlier Heart Attacks
When you have any heart attack, be it silent or a full-fledged one. It scars your heart muscles and can’t function at 100% efficiency anymore. So, when you go through a silent heart attack, it weakens the muscles of your heart, and you also become susceptible to more attacks in the future. When your heart is becoming weaker every time, the risk of a full-fledged heart attack being fatal for you increases many folds. So, you must take care of your heart health from the get-go and take any symptoms related to your heart health very seriously.
Complicates Your Cardiac Health
When you go through a silent heart attack, it has ill effects on your heart muscles, which leads to complications arising in your cardiovascular system. Your existing cardiovascular conditions can grow worse over time unless these problems are addressed. If left unchecked, it increases your risk for a future complete heart failure. This is undoubtedly going to be the cause of your death if left unchecked. So, for you to contain the risk, the only way is to get regular medical checkups and adequate medically advised lifestyle changes.
Now that you know the risks of a silent heart attack let’s learn about who is at risk of silent heart attacks.
Who Is At Risk For Silent Heart Attacks?
The risk of a silent heart attack is the same for people at risk of a regular heart attack. However, a silent heart attack can often be the predecessor of a regular heart attack, so if diagnosed on time, it can save your life potentially. So, let’s look at a detailed list of conditions that could make you most susceptible to a silent heart attack.
The diabetic levels of a patient
The weight of a patient
The blood pressure and cholesterol levels of a patient
Tobacco and alcohol consumption of a patient
The sedentary lifestyle of a patient
The genetic predisposition to heart diseases of a patient
These risks would make you most susceptible to a silent heart attack and, in turn, even a regular one. It is essential to your safety that you understand these risks and take adequate medical attention to get over these risk factors.
Conclusion
Standing in the 21st century, taking care of your heart health is crucial for your overall well-being. So, to stay safe, you must try to exercise daily, consume a balanced diet, and quit smoking. These lifestyle changes go a long way toward helping you live a long and fulfilling life. For people suffering from cardiovascular disease, feel free to visit MediPulse hospital for consultation regarding your condition. You can find more information about the cardiology department at MediPulse on the hospital website.
What is the job of a Cardiologist, and when should you see one
A cardiologist treats and deals with any problems in your cardiovascular system. They are specialists in treating heart problems. But that’s a very rudimentary understanding of what it is to be a cardiologist. It
A cardiologist treats and deals with any problems in your cardiovascular system. They are specialists in treating heart problems. But that’s a very rudimentary understanding of what it is to be a cardiologist. It takes a medical student at least 7 - 10 years to become a cardiologist, so with all due respect to the countless lives they save on a daily basis. Let’s delve deep into what is the job of a cardiologist and when you should visit one.
What Is The Job Of A Cardiologist?
A cardiologist is your one-stop doctor for all things related to your heart and circulatory system; They are uniquely trained to help you treat problems ranging from chest pain to heart failure. Their job is to read your symptoms and try to figure out the underlying condition that is causing you to have the problems. A cardiologist orders various tests to try and figure out the internal problems of your heart and circulatory system. Listed below are some of the most common problems treated by cardiologists and some of the tests used by cardiologists to diagnose patients.
Conditions Treated By Cardiologists
Chest pain
Problems with your blood vessels
High blood pressure
High cholesterol levels
Heart failure
Cardiovascular diseases
Problems with heart valves
Diagnostic Tests Used By Cardiologists To Treat Patients
Electrocardiograms
Echocardiograms
Computed Tomography
Stress Echocardiography
Exercise Stress Test
Coronary Angiogram
Nuclear Stress Tests
A cardiologist first listens to your symptoms and then asks you about your family history of cardiovascular diseases. Then they ask you about your lifestyle and your smoking or drinking habits. Following the questionnaire, cardiologists conduct a physical exam to assess your condition. Based on the results, they would ask you to go for the diagnostic tests mentioned above or prescribe you medication to aid your symptoms. So, that’s all you need to know about the job of a cardiologist. If you want to learn more, you check out other resources about Cardiologists on the official website of MediPulse hospital. Now, let’s discuss the situations where you should visit a cardiologist.
When Should You Visit A Cardiologist?
When Your General Doctor Recommends
It is not advised that you directly visit specialists with your symptoms. It’s best to visit a cardiologist when your general doctor recommends it.
If You Are A Smoker
Whether it is a single smoke a day or many, smoking causes serious damage to your heart, and it is crucial that you quit in time. So, to help you quit and assess the damage of smoking on your cardiovascular system, you should visit a cardiologist.
If You Are Diabetic
The different types of diabetes are one of the leading causes of heart disease today. Diabetes and heart diseases are often cross-linked; one comes with the other. So, it is important that you get yourself to a cardiologist for a checkup if you have recently been diagnosed with diabetes.
If You Have A Genetic Predisposition (Family History) Of Heart Diseases
Family history and genetics can often predispose you to cardiovascular diseases even if you live a moderately healthy life. So, if you have cardiovascular problems in your heredity, it is essential you get yourself checked in time to assess your risk factors and address them before they can act up.
If You Are Experiencing Heart Pain
Pain in your heart can never be for anything good. So, if you are experiencing sharp pain in your heart or pain that is persistent, you must immediately visit a cardiologist to diagnose your problems.
Conclusion
So, that are some of the reasons you should visit a cardiologist. Cardiologists are one of the most in-demand doctors nowadays, given the increasing number of people suffering from cardiovascular diseases. So, if you want to get treated by the best cardiologists with years of experience and state-of-the-art infrastructure, visit MediPulse hospital.
What is a Heart Attack & what you should know about it
The term heart attack has become a common medical term that everyone knows. In India, it is estimated that every year over 30 lakh people suffer heart attacks, of which over 50% suffer from fatal heart attacks.
The term heart attack has become a common medical term that everyone knows. In India, it is estimated that every year over 30 lakh people suffer heart attacks, of which over 50% suffer from fatal heart attacks. The increasing rate of the population suffering from cardiovascular diseases has also increased the number of people that suffer from heart attacks drastically. Today in India, cardiovascular diseases are the number one reason for people’s death, and over 80% of those deaths occur due to heart attacks. This problem is not just in India but globally as well; cardiovascular diseases, which lead to heart attacks, are the leading cause of death among people of various age groups. So, what is a heart attack, and why is it so lethal? Let’s find out!
What is a Heart Attack?
A heart attack (also known as myocardial infarction) is a condition where the blood flow to your heart is restricted, causing your heart to stop functioning due to the lack of oxygen. When your heart stops functioning, the blood flow of your entire body comes to a stop. This causes tissue death in your heart, which can cause serious damage to the muscles of your heart and even death.
What Are The Causes of a Heart Attack?
Heart attacks are caused by the restriction of blood flow to the heart. The condition can be caused by various factors, but it is mainly due to the person suffering from any cardiovascular disease. The main arteries that provide oxygenated blood to your heart are the coronary arteries. When these arteries are blocked due to the build-up of plaque on the artery walls, you can experience a heart attack. The plaque build-up is caused due to coronary artery diseases.
In other scenarios, you can also suffer from a heart attack if there is a spasm in your coronary artery, which cuts off the blood supply to your heart. The spasm can be caused by a condition known as ischemia. This condition can cause people who don’t suffer from any cardiovascular diseases also to suffer from a heart attack. However, you should know that ischemia is rare and doesn’t occur commonly, even among heart attack patients.
What Are The Tell-Tale Symptoms of a Heart Attack?
The symptoms of a heart attack can differ according to your gender, so here are the tell-tale signs of a heart attack.
Heart Attack Symptoms for Men
Discomfort, heaviness, or pressure in your chest
Sharp pain in your chest below your breastbone or your arm
Shortness of breath, dizziness, and physical weakness
Uneven heartbeat
The feeling of choking or heartburn
Vomiting, sweating, and upset stomach
Heart Attack Symptoms for Women
Breathlessness
Lightheadedness or dizziness
Nausea and/or vomiting
Discomfort or pressure in your upper back or neck
Feelings of indigestion or discomfort in your gut
What Are The Treatment Options for a Heart Attack?
The treatment of a heart attack depends on its severity. For a mild heart attack, doctors might prescribe you medication to stop blood clots from forming in your arteries and ease the strain on your heart. However, in case if you have a serious heart attack, you need to be rushed into the emergency, and you might need surgical intervention. These are some of the common surgical procedures performed on heart attack patients.
Balloon angioplasty
Bypass surgery
Stent placement
How Can You Prevent a Heart Attack?
You have to ensure optimum heart health as you age to keep yourself safe from a heart attack. This includes
Regular exercising
An active lifestyle
A focus on a healthy diet
Abstinence from smoking and excessive drinking
These are some of the key practices that will help you prevent heart attacks and keep your heart healthy.
As heart attacks become more common, awareness of their risk is crucial among people. Additionally, it is necessary for people over 30 to go through regular doctor visits to ensure their heart health is optimum. Awareness and changes in lifestyle are crucial to keeping your heart healthy. So, if you or your loved ones are suffering from any cardiovascular diseases or you would like to learn more about lifestyle changes that would help you keep your heart healthy, feel free to visit Medipulse hospital. Medipulse is the best tertiary care hospital in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. You can check out the hospital website for more information.
Understanding the lifecycle of a stent in the heart
Whenever there is a new implant in your body, several questions can arise in your mind. Often people think if the implant can cause any adverse reaction in the body or if it can prove to be fatal. That's why it is crucial
Whenever there is a new implant in your body, several questions can arise in your mind. Often people think if the implant can cause any adverse reaction in the body or if it can prove to be fatal. That's why it is crucial to understand every aspect of different implants, including the stents added to the heart or the blood vessel.
It is one of the most common surgical procedures to remove the heart block and restore blood flow. Unlike the traditional angioplasty, where a balloon is used, the stent is a metal mesh tube left in the blocked region to keep the vessel distended and allow proper blood flow.
Although a stent is considered permanent, it has a particular lifetime. The word "permanent" is associated due to its maximum longevity over other objects used in different types of angioplasty. Many people do not understand the proper lifecycle of the stents. Therefore, this blog describes everything you need to know about the stent lifecycle or longevity once placed in the heart.
How is a stent installed in the heart or the blood vessels?
First, the proper location of the clot is detected as it can be resent in the coronary artery, the aorta, or any other blood vessel, and the valves present in the heart and at the base of two blood vessels leaving the organ. Once the location is detected, a catheter is inserted from an incision in the wrist. It is pushed further inside the blood vessel until it reaches where the block is present.
The metal mesh tube, called the stent, is released into the location. As soon as it is released, the metal tube adheres to the inside of the blood vessel and enlarges it. Since the blocked area is opened wide, blood flows properly. The tube is left behind, and the catheter is taken out. Unlike the balloon or any other angioplasty component, the stent can last for a long, ensuring maximum longevity and an almost permanent system of block removal in the blood vessels.
On what factors will the stent’s longevity depend?
The stent's longevity depends on several factors. If you do not follow the doctor's instructions correctly, the stent is likely to suffer damage or lead to stenosis. For this reason, you should be aware of the factors that decide how long the stent can stay in the blood vessels and function just the way it should.
1. You need to maintain a healthy lifestyle. It would help if you refrained from lifting heavy objects, be it a large water jar or weights. Lifting heavy weight can cause further problems while causing the stent to get displaced from its position.
2. If the doctor has used a bare stent, its longevity is slightly less than that of the chemical or drug-coated stent.
3. It would help if you did not smoke or drink alcohol. These can adversely impact your health, causing the stent to perform abnormally. Besides, you will be at a higher risk of heart attack or stroke.
4. It would help if you got enough sleep, and depression or stress will affect your health. So, be very sure about the sleep routine you are following.
5. Diet is another factor on which the stent’s lifetime depends. For instance, you need to follow a proper diet that will not have too many fats, especially unsaturated ones. You can take the mono-saturated fatty acids as they are helpful and lower the LDL amount in your blood.
So, the lifetime of the stents and the factors on which it depends are described briefly above. You should follow your doctor’s instructions without thinking about anything. If you face any difficulty, like chest pain, do not wait much and immediately take medical assistance. you can also visit Medipulse hospital or can consult with our Doctors to get the best and most updated information.
Things to know about angioplasty and stent placement
Heart block is one of the most common cardiac problems that most people are diagnosed with. It occurs for various reasons, from high cholesterol in the blood to plaque formation on the inner walls of the arteries
Heart block is one of the most common cardiac problems that most people are diagnosed with. It occurs for various reasons, from high cholesterol in the blood to plaque formation on the inner walls of the arteries or veins. The blocks can be treated with medicines and a strict lifestyle when diagnosed in the initial stages.
But if the diagnosis is done later and the blood flow is restricted, doctors need to go for surgical methods. Angioplasty is the most common treatment method to remove the block and restore the original blood flow in the vessels. However, it has several drawbacks and is also considered to be an obsolete treatment process.
This is where angioplasty with a stent is considered the latest and newest form of treatment for heart and vessel blocks. Specific facts about angioplasty with a stent for better clarification have been mentioned below.
What is angioplasty? How is it different from stent placement?
Angioplasty is a process through which a catheter is first inserted into the artery. It is then moved towards the block's position, and a balloon is blown inside. It widens the lumen of the vessel and allows the blood to flow. However, this method is temporary. That's why it is usually used to remove small-sized blocks.
However, angioplasty with stent placement is chosen when the block is large and can threaten the patient's life. In this process, a mesh metal tube is inserted into the blood vessel with the help of the catheter. Once it reaches the spot where the block is formed, it is released and left in the area to widen the blood vessels. As it remains inside the blood vessels, the stent is a permanent solution that allows a better and unhindered blood flow.
Risks of angioplasty with stent
Since you are now aware of angioplasty with a stent, you should also know the associated risks to prevent any misconception from forming in your mind. In this below section, we have described the risks you should be aware of.
1. Sometimes, bleeding can happen at the place from where the catheter is inserted into the body, like the wrist and groin.
2. Blood may clot at the location of the stent placement. This is one of the most significant risk factors as this can block the blood flow, preventing the heart to work properly.
3. Abnormal heart rhythms are also concerning after angioplasty surgery with stent placement. However, this is a rare scenario and does not usually happen in patients.
4. Infection at the site of catheter insertion is a common risk factor that doctors are always wary of. Due to the infection, the patient may experience fever.
5. If typical angioplasty is performed, there are higher chances of complete coronary artery closure, causing more problems. It further leads to immediate open-heart surgery.
6. Since some stents are coated with a protective layer to prevent stenosis, the chemical can cause rashes and allergic reactions.
7. Abnormal chest pain is associated with angioplasty surgery, with or without stents. It may lead to strokes or heart attacks.
Lifestyle after angioplasty or stent placement
You should know the lifestyle changes to undergo once the angioplasty or stent placement surgery is done. Following are the precautions you should exercise:
1. You won't be allowed to do any heavy exercise, whether lifting something or exercising.
2. Also, you have to put a big no to smoking and alcohol consumption as that can adversely affect the stent.
3. You will be given several medications that you need to take without fail.
4. The diet will also be restricted as you won't be allowed to eat oily, too much fat, fried items, etc.
The above information briefly explains angioplasty and the stent placement process. If you have more concerns, you must consult your doctor about your doubts, especially the eligibility for the surgery and the risks. You can visit Medipulse hospital for treatments.
Understanding the role of stent in treating heart diseases
The heart is the most crucial organ in our body, also called life's source. Although it is considered one of the strongest organs, there are certain cases where the heart weakens and suffer from some comorbid diseases.
The heart is the most crucial organ in our body, also called life's source. Although it is considered one of the strongest organs, there are certain cases where the heart weakens and suffer from some comorbid diseases. One such problem is blocks.
The blocks can form in the major blood vessels like the pulmonary artery or aorta, normal vessels, coronary artery, or the valves inside the heart. Blocks occur due to a myriad of reasons, from obesity to atherosclerosis. It is not easy to treat the blocks, especially when they are so huge that the blood flow is restricted.
Over the years, several new treatment processes have been introduced to the medical industry, from angioplasty to surgeries. However, they do not have a much higher success rate. This is why doctors usually prefer to go for stent placement to reduce the block and widen the area through which blood flows.
Below, we will explain specific facts about stent treatment that every person should know, regardless of whether he is a heart patient.
What is stent treatment and how it is done?
A stent is a cylindrical mesh metal tube inserted in the blood vessel or the part of the heart where there is a block. An incision is made at the wrist, the leg, or the groin based on the block's location. From this small cut, a catheter is inserted along the blood vessel until it reaches the block's location.
Once done, the metal tube is released and allowed to expand. Its position is adjusted to ensure the blood vessel is distended without the block interfering with the blood flow. As the tube extends in diameter, the blood flow is restored, ensuring no more hassles or life risks.
The stent is left behind in the blood vessels, whereas the catheter is drawn out from the incision area. As a result, you won't feel anything inside your body. Doctors often define stent angioplasty as a permanent process because the stent is left behind permanently until it suffers corrosion and needs replacement.
Types of stents used in cardiac block treatment
Usually, two different types of stents are used in treating heart block. These are:
1. Bare metal stent: This is a regular metallic stent with no coating present on the surface. These are often termed first-generation stents. Although they are cheaper and readily available, the chances of the blood vessel closing are much more.
2. Drug-eluting stent: Coated with a particular medicine on the walls, this stent is the newest one used in cardiac treatment for vessel and heart blocks. The chemical prevents the re-narrowing of the blood vessels, offering more longevity.
Benefits of stent treatment
To have a clear picture of the stent treatment, it is imperative to know its benefits, which we have explained in the section below.
1. The stent is left at the place of the blockage to ensure the blood vessel remains distended for the wrong time.
2. It does not interfere with blood flow. Instead, it increases the vessels' lumen and allows proper blood flow.
3. There is no need to replace the stent every month because they have higher longevity and can last for at least 6 months.
4. Stent treatment is more promising for reducing heart and blood vessel blocks than any other form of angioplasty.
Over the years, several studies have emerged concerning the productivity and efficiency of cardiac stents. These treat blocks in different parts of the cardiac system, like the coronary arteries and the heart valves. Once the stents are placed, patients must be careful of their lifestyle and ensure they do not start smoking, consume alcohol, or introduce irregularity in the diet plan. For more information, be sure to visit the hospital’s website.
What are the signs of a heart attack?
Myocardial infarction, commonly termed heart attack, is one of the most common cardiac problems. It can occur for various reasons, from hypertension to obesity and diabetes. Since it is a life-threatening cardiac
Myocardial infarction, commonly termed heart attack, is one of the most common cardiac problems. It can occur for various reasons, from hypertension to obesity and diabetes. Since it is a life-threatening cardiac issue, having proper knowledge about the causes, symptoms, actions, and treatment is crucial.
If the patient suffered from a heart attack receives proper treatment on time, the chances of survival; are more. But if there is a gap in between, it won’t be possible for doctors to save the life. People often fail to recognize the signs of heart attack as the general symptoms are almost similar to that of digestive diseases, costochondritis, etc.
Keeping this in mind, we have described some of the most crucial facts you must know about heart attacks, from the probable causes to the signs you should look for.
What are the causes of a heart attack?
Several reasons exist for a person suffering from a heart attack. You won't be able to differentiate the symptoms with ease if you are not aware of the causes in the first place. Therefore, we have discussed the most common heart attack issues as per the surveys.
1. Type I heart attack is a medical condition when plaque builds up on the inner walls of the heart and the blood vessels, restricting blood flow and forcing the heart to apply high pressure to distribute the blood.
2. Type II heart attack is said to be when the coronary artery does not receive enough oxygen. As a result, the tissues of the cardiac muscles deaden temporarily, causing myocardial infarction.
3. Sometimes, misuse of drugs, especially the ones containing components like alprazolam, clonazepam, and so on, can lead to heart attacks.
How to identify if it is a heart attack?
There are several types of symptoms that signify the person is suffering from a heart attack. To begin with, pain in the left or central part of the chest, just beside the sternum, can symbolize a heart attack. But in most cases, the pain happens due to neural problems in the cardiac muscles, costochondritis in the rib cages and costal muscles, or ingestion.
Therefore, you cannot consider chest pain the sole indicator of a heart attack. In this following section, we have discussed the signs you must look for.
1. Shortness of breath: As the heart cannot pump blood into the lungs, oxygen won't reach the tissues; hence, you will feel difficulties in breathing.
2. Pain radiating in the left arm: Another confusing but proper indicator of heart attack is the radiating chest pain along the left arm. However, this pain is excruciating, as if someone squeezes the hands tight. If someone has a tingling sensation, it is mainly a neural problem.
3. Excessive and profuse sweating is also another cause of heart attack. The cells cannot distribute the heat evenly, which increases the body's temperature, causing excessive sweating.
4. Dizziness and blurred vision: Often, during a heart attack, the brain cells do not receive the appropriate oxygen level. As a result, the patient may feel dizzy. It is often accompanied by blurred vision due to the less active neurons.
What steps should you follow if you identify a heart attack?
Once you identify these symptoms in a patient, you should immediately take the person to the hospital without wasting time. Use the oximeter to check whether the oxygen levels are dropping. If it is below 80, the condition is severe, and the patient will need immediate oxygen supply, which may lead to heart failure.
Conclusion
In this brief, we have shared the symptoms that can lead to a heart attack. Often people confuse these signs with that of indigestion or angina. Therefore, do remember the medical history. If the patient suffers from depression and stress or has a history of obesity, high blood pressure, and more, they will be at higher risk. For more information, visit the hospital’s official website.
Everything you need to know about heart valve repair and replacement surgery
The primary function of the heart valves is to allow the blood to flow in one direction only. Humans have four valves in the heart, mainly the bicuspid, tricuspid, pulmonary semilunar, and aortic semilunar.
The primary function of the heart valves is to allow the blood to flow in one direction only. Humans have four valves in the heart, mainly the bicuspid, tricuspid, pulmonary semilunar, and aortic semilunar. These operate like doors. Once blood passes through, the flaps close, preventing the backflow of blood due to the cardiac pressure generated in the walls.
However, sometimes, these valves may function differently. For example, they do not close on time or have irregular opening and closing times. When they start malfunctioning, doctors opt for surgeries because irregular functioning of these muscular doors can lead to several other consequences.
Most people don't know what happens in valve replacement and repair surgeries. Perhaps that's why they stall the procedure for as long as possible. Many people even get so apprehensive that they can suffer from depression. Keeping this in mind, we have described some facts about this surgical procedure through which the valves are repaired.
What is heart valve repair and replacement surgery?
Heart valves can easily malfunction owing to an array of reasons. They can quickly repair the issue in the early stages and ensure the doors start functioning normally. For example, if the flaps are not closing due to fat deposition, doctors will remove them and ensure the flaps start closing right on time.
But when it comes to conditions where the repair is impossible, doctors repair the original valves with artificial ones and ensure they work properly. There are two options for replacing the valves:
1. Mechanical valves: These are artificial and function just like mechanical doors. If the doctor uses this valve, the patient must take blood-thinning medications to prevent blood clotting, heart stroke, or myocardial infarction.
2. Biological tissue valve: In this, the tissues of cows, pigs, or the human cardiac muscles are used to make the flaps of the valves. You do not need to take thinning blood medicines for this case. However, the replacements can wear down due to tissue degeneration and require replacement.
What are the risks associated with heart valve repair and replacement surgery?
Like all types of surgeries, there are several risks associated with heart valve repair and replacement surgeries. Besides, the risks are higher in this case because the heart is involved and flaps of the valves play a crucial role in managing the entire process of blood purification.
So, before you agree to the surgery, you must be aware of the risks associated with this surgery.
1. Infection at the sight of surgery is one of the most common risks, especially if the process involves open heart surgery.
2. You should be aware of the intramuscular bleeding at the location of the stitches. Although it is not a fatal condition, doctors usually monitor the stitches and the surgical wound to prevent any clotting.
3. The stitches can get ruptured, causing profuse bleeding. It can even lead to heart attacks or strokes.
4. The replacement valves sometimes fail to function as they are expected to. As a result, the patient may suffer from critical medical conditions.
5. Irregular heart patterns or pulse rate is another risk involved with heart valve repair and replacement surgeries.
What is the average recovery time for heart valve repair and replacement surgery?
There is no fixed time to recover the heart valve repair and replacement surgery. It depends on the criticality of the surgery, the lifestyle you follow the next day, and so on. This is why you should follow the doctors' instructions properly without fail.
Conclusion
Heart valve surgery or Heart valve repair and replacement surgery is a standard procedure, owing to the advanced medical science and the availability of different alternatives. However, you should be aware of the risks associated with the surgery and the recovery lifestyle to be followed. You can also visit Medipulse hospital for more information and treatment.
ICU treatment in neurosurgery and neurology in RGHS
RGHS is a new initiative from the Rajasthan Government taken to ensure every person residing in the state can get monetary aid for proper health treatment.
RGHS is a new initiative from the Rajasthan Government taken to ensure every person residing in the state can get monetary aid for proper health treatment.
As many people are in a dilemma about this new scheme, we have put forth some of the main details about how RGHS can be used for medical and ICU costs during neurological treatments,
Why are neurological and neurosurgical costs so high?
Several reasons govern the total medical costs and overheads for neurological and neurosurgical treatments. Before discussing how RGHS can cover the expenses in Rajasthan, first, let's understand why the costs are so high.
a. Neurological treatment is not the same as that of other departments. Doctors must rely on a holistic approach, combining medicinal, surgical, exercises, and therapeutical treatments to ensure perfect results.
b. The tests done to assess neurological diseases or imparities are pretty costly. Regular blood tests or X-rays cannot determine the real-time status of damaged or injured nerves. Tests like MRI scans, CT scans, and more are conducted to determine the neural health of a patient.
c. It is no wonder how extensive neurological treatments are. The patients need to consider charges for therapies like physiotherapies, speech therapies, and so on. To say the charges are high would be an understatement.
d. In addition, patients who need to be hospitalized earliest due to neurological problems need to pay a lot more per basis, especially if it is ICU admission.
What is RGHS, and can it help in neurological treatments?
RGHS or Rajasthan Government Health Scheme is a recently launched initiative to ensure everyone can receive quality treatments at private and government hospitals. It is mainly suitable for politicians and other associated roles, government officials, and pensioners. Government officials and employees receive an array of benefits in the neurological health sector, like
a. Neurological treatment at OPD for outdoor patients
b. Daycare services with cashless transactions
c. Inpatient treatment charges
d. Surgical and post-surgery treatment charges
Once your registration is complete, you can raise a claim for the limited amount mentioned per your scheme quota. The claim is approved almost immediately. As a government employee and the policy owner of the health scheme, you will have more allowances. Regarding the beneficiaries, the amount granted for neurological and neurosurgical treatments is less.
Areas covered under RGHS for neurological treatments
The RGHS scheme covers several areas for neurological and neurosurgical treatments. Here we have presented a brief about the sectors where you can get allowances.
| S. No. | Medical treatment and expense area | Covered / Not covered in RGHS |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Admission Charges | ✓ |
| 2. | Room charges | ✓ |
| 3. | ICU charges (if any) | ✓ |
| 4. | Dr. visit | ✓ |
| 5. | Nursing charges | ✓ |
| 6. | Patient diet | ✓ |
| 7. | Investigation charges | ✓ |
| 8. | Pharmacy charges - Non Surgical items | ✓ |
| 9. | OT charges (if any) | ✓ |
| 10. | CSSD | ✓ |
| 11. | Oxygen, ventilator, DVT pump other equipment | ✓ |
| 12. | Special medical Instrument charges | ✓ |
| 13. | Implant, Mesh, IOL, Special surgical items, Stent | ✓ |
| 14. | Non-medical consumable items in ICU treatment/ medical management | X |
| 15. | Air Bed/DVT Pumps etc. | X |
| 16. | High end implants like titanium, valves etc that are not covered under the standard category | X |
| 17. | OT consumables that are not included in the package | X |
| 18. | Discharge Medicine (Covered in OPD) | X |
Apart from these, RGHS also covers surgical charges and all associated expenses. Therefore, people can quickly get the best treatment with this new healthcare scheme.
Rheumatoid vs Orthopedic surgeons: a brief explanation
Although each medical branch differs from others, there are certain areas where they overlap. Most people fail to understand this simple fact and consider the almost relatable medical lines to be the same
Although each medical branch differs from others, there are certain areas where they overlap. Most people fail to understand this simple fact and consider the almost relatable medical lines to be the same. The two most confusing branches are orthopedic and rheumatology.
Rheumatology vs Orthopedic: definition
When the medical problem concerns bones, cartilages, tendons, and ligaments, the medical branch dealing with these issues is termed orthopedics. For example, medical professionals in this department deal with arthritis, bone fractures, joint replacement, and so on.
On the other hand, the rheumatological department is concerned with an inflammatory autoimmune disease where the body's immune cells attack the healthy cells only and result in swells. Rheumatoid diseases can occur externally and internally, leading to a wide range of symptoms that everyone needs to be aware of.
Rheumatology vs Orthopedic: health concerns
You must know the disease types further to understand the differences between these two medical areas. This will help you to decide which medical professional you must see and when. It will reduce time, and you won't have to waste too much money on the wrong treatment.
Rheumatoid disease types
Rheumatoid arthritis
Lupus
Sjogren's syndrome
Gout
Scleroderma
Infectious arthritis
Polymyalgia rheumatica
Orthopedic disease types
Osteoarthritis
Hip and knee replacement
Trauma to the bones
Scoliosis
Plantar fasciitis
Bursitis
Dislocated joints
Rheumatology vs Orthopedic: medical professionals
As you now know the basics of these two areas of medical science, it is time to learn more about medical professionals and their way of conducting diagnoses.
Rheumatologist
A rheumatologist looks after any health problems caused due to inflamed cartilages and bones. The best way to identify is through a series of blood tests like the RA factor, antibody B, etc. X-rays are also conducted to check which areas of the bones and cartilage are affected the most and whether they can be treated with medicines only. There are certain cases when meds don't work. In this case, surgical removal of the affected cartilage is preferred.
Orthopedist
Orthopedists are of two types: An orthopedic surgeon is concerned with any disease occurring in the bones. They not only deal with acquired or developed diseases like osteoarthritis or bone tumors, but they are also concerned with treating broken and fractured bones, joint replacements, and so on.
Regular orthopedic professionals look after the health conditions where the bones can be treated with medicines and exercises.
Orthopedic surgeons are the ones who need to deal with bone replacement, joint surgeries, and so on. They handle the advanced cases when medicines and exercises fail to show positive responses in the patients. They are also concerned with handling emergencies where a person may suffer from broken bones due to accidents.
Rheumatology vs orthopedic: comparison
Most diseases falling under these two medical branches are degenerative. What doctors can do is stop the further degeneration through medicines and exercise. It means no medicine or exercise routine can restore the original condition.
While rheumatology can be treated with a lifestyle change, the same cannot be said for orthopedic problems.
Most patients suffering from rheumatology need to bear the intense pain in different parts of the body, from fingers to the cartilages between rib bones. On the other hand, if we consider the patients suffering from orthopedic problems, the pain can go away if the bone is replaced or a fracture is repaired.
Conclusion
Only medical reports can reveal whether you need an orthopedic surgeon or a rheumatologist. Now that you know the differences between orthopedic and rheumatology, you won't have to bear the consequences of visiting the wrong doctor. Just study the symptoms you are facing and get the tests done at the earliest. and you can also visit Medipulse hospital for more information and treatment.
Who are Rheumatologists & when should you visit them?
All of these scenarios require assessment and diagnosis by a rheumatologist. In accordance with the above scenarios, you must also visit a rheumatologist if you have an autoimmune condition such as RA in
In India, rheumatoid arthritis is a very common autoimmune disease that affects up to 1% of the entire country’s population. Even though it may not seem high, due to the high population of India, 1% of its population accounts for a staggering number of people that suffer from this incurable disease. As you can imagine by now, rheumatologists are specialized doctors that treat patients that suffer from Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and other related musculoskeletal diseases. But, there’s a lot more you should know about them to understand when you should visit them. So, let’s learn more about rheumatologists and when you should visit them.
Who are Rheumatologists?
If you suffer from autoimmune diseases such as RA, your primary care doctor can assess your condition and help you cope with your problems on a preliminary level. However, when it comes to treatment options and comprehensive assessment of your condition to determine the severity of your disease, you need a rheumatologist. As mentioned before, rheumatologists are specialized doctors who are trained to care for and treat patients suffering from various problems such as
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Musculoskeletal diseases
Swelling, pain, stiffness, or deformities in bones, joints, organs, or supporting muscles.
Let’s dive deeper and learn about the various specific conditions that rheumatologists can specifically assess, diagnose, and treat.
Osteoporosis
Gout
Osteoarthritis
Fibromyalgia
Tendonitis
Lupus
Myositis
Rheumatoid arthritis
Back pain and muscle strains
Scleroderma
When should you visit a Rheumatologist?
If you are suffering from severe pain in your joints, bones, back, or muscles, you may need to visit a rheumatologist. If you are suffering from these problems, initially, they can be treated or assessed by general physicians as well. However, when they start to persist or worsen over time, that’s when you need to consider visiting a rheumatologist.
There are also other specific situations where you need to visit a rheumatologist; some of them are discussed below.
You are over 50 years of age, and you go through intense headaches or muscle spams regularly.
You have muscle/joint pain that persists and is accompanied by bouts of fever, morning stiffness, rashes, and fatigue.
You suffer from new joint pains every now and then without having any injury.
You have persistent muscle pain that just doesn’t go away.
You suffer from severe pain in multiple joints in your body.
All of these scenarios require assessment and diagnosis by a rheumatologist. In accordance with the above scenarios, you must also visit a rheumatologist if you have an autoimmune condition such as RA in your genetics. Getting a thorough diagnosis will help you eliminate the risk factors you might have or make necessary lifestyle changes to ensure you are safe from the genetic diseases you might carry
Conclusion
Given the prevalence of RA in India, rheumatologists are in high demand always. Given the advancements in medical science and technology today, there are finally some treatment options for patients suffering from autoimmune conditions like RA. So, if you are suffering from RA or are going through any of the symptoms/scenarios mentioned in this article, be sure to get yourself checked. You can visit the top rheumatologists from Rajasthan and India at Medipulse hospital in Jodhpur. For more information, be sure to visit the hospital’s website.