Medical dictionary

What is cardiac arrest? Cardiac arrest is when the heart suddenly stops beating. This means that blood is no longer being pumped around the body, which prevents oxygen from reaching the brain. Cardiac arrest is very serious and if the heart is not restarted promptly, it quickly results in the death of the individual. What's the difference between a heart attack and cardiac arres

What is cardiac ablation? Cardiac, or catheter ablation is a treatment which is used to treat heart rhythm problems such as atrial fibrillation. Cardiac ablation uses either heat energy (radiogrequency) or cold (cryoablation) to target diseased areas of the heart to treat heart rhythm abnormalities and prevent these from arising and triggering arrhythmias. Why is cardiac ablation perform

What are cardiac markers? Cardiac markers are substances released into the bloodstream when the heart is damaged or under stress. Analysing these markers can provide valuable information about heart health and diagnose various cardiac conditions. Why is cardiac marker analysis performed? Cardiac marker analysis is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring heart-related conditions such as

What are cardiac medications? Cardiac medications help keep your heart condition under control by either treating it or preventing your symptoms from worsening. There are many types and they all work differently; some can help lower your blood pressure and reduce cholesterol levels, whilst others help your body get rid of certain fluids that are preventing your heart from pumping blood cor

What is a cardiac MRI? MRI scans are a non-invasive diagnostic test. MRI uses powerful magnets, radio frequency pulses and a computer to create detailed pictures of soft tissues, organs, bone and other bodily structures. A cardiac MRI therefore produces images of the heart and surrounding tissue. Unlike X-ray, MRI does not use radiation. What does cardiac MRI consist of? An MRI machin

What is cardiac rehabilitation?Cardiac rehabilitation is a programme designed to help patients who have had a heart attack or undergone heart surgery to get back on their feet through exercise,lifestyle changes and being informed about how to overcome their cardiac problems. Cardiac rehabilitation is meant to be supportive for the patient and family to help them get back to day-to-day life.Why is

What is cardiac resynchronisation (CRT) therapy? Cardiac resynchronisation therapy is a treatment used to help the heartbeat achieve the right rhythm. Cardiac resynchronisation therapy uses a pacemaker to restore the normal rhythm of the heartbeat. The pacemaker coordinates the timing of the upper heart chambers and the lower heart chambers. It also improves the timing between the right and

Is there anything else I should know? It's essential to be well-informed about cardiac risk factors, as they can significantly impact your overall health. Understanding these factors can empower you to take proactive steps for a healthier heart. Why undergo the analysis? Cardiac risk analysis helps identify potential threats to your heart health, allowing for early intervention an

What is cardiac screening? Cardiac screening is the process of testing for possible medical conditions affecting the heart. Screening is often performed before symptoms have manifested to try and catch any possible problems as early as possible. What does cardiac screening consist of/involve? Cardiac screening can involve a number of tests that can give an indication that something is