Cardiology and Cardiothoracic Surgery Services in Penang
Cardiology is a specialty that deals with disorders of the heart. This includes disorders of coronary circulation, heart valves, myocardium, pericardium, congenital heart disease, cardiac arrest, and vascular diseases.
Subspecialties in Cardiology
Our cardiologists also subspecialise in one or more of the following disciplines:
- Cardiac electrophysiology – Study of the rhythm of the heart
- Echocardiography – Study of the structure and mechanical function of the heart using ultrasound
- Interventional cardiology – A minimally invasive method of treatment for structural, coronary, and vascular disorders with the use of small catheters, stents, and/or mechanical devices.
Treatment for Heart and Vascular Conditions
Pantai Hospital’s Penang cardiology department treats a wide range of heart and vascular conditions, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and structural heart conditions such as valve disorders.
- Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
- Heart Failure
- Arrhythmias
- Valvular Heart Disease (e.g., Severe Aortic Stenosis, treated with TAVI)
- Cardiomyopathy
- Congenital Heart Defects
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
Cardiothoracic Surgery
Cardiothoracic surgeons work closely with cardiologists and are trained to perform surgery on the heart, lungs, chest wall, and diaphragm.
This specialty focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, trauma, and congenital or acquired deformities to the heart and major blood vessels.
Conditions that may require cardiothoracic surgery include:
- Coronary artery blockage
- Valvular heart disease
- Aortic aneurysm
- Congenital heart defects
Each patient receives care from a multidisciplinary team of cardiothoracic surgeons, cardiologists, anaesthetists, and intensivists to ensure safe and successful outcomes.
When To See a Cardiologist
Heart health is vital for overall well-being, and recognising early warning signs can help prevent serious complications. You should consider consulting a cardiologist if you experience:
- Chest pain or discomfort – Persistent pressure, tightness, or pain in your chest could indicate angina or a heart attack and requires immediate medical attention.
- Shortness of breath – Feeling breathless during light activity or at rest may signal an underlying heart condition that needs further evaluation.
- Irregular heartbeat or palpitations – A fluttering or rapid heartbeat may be a sign of arrhythmia, especially if it occurs often or is accompanied by dizziness or chest pain.
- Unexplained fatigue or swelling – Persistent tiredness or swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet (oedema) could indicate heart failure or poor circulation.
- High blood pressure or family history of heart disease – Hypertension and genetic risk factors increase your chances of heart disease, so regular screenings are important.
If you are experiencing any of these warning signs, schedule a consultation with our cardiology team at Pantai Hospital Penang for early diagnosis and expert care.