Cardiology is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of heart and blood vessel diseases:
What it is
Cardiology is the study of the heart and circulatory system, which includes the blood vessels that pump oxygen and nutrients throughout the body.
What cardiologists do
Cardiologists are doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating heart and blood vessel conditions, such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, and heart rhythm problems. They also help prevent heart disease by managing risk factors and recommending lifestyle changes.
How cardiologists diagnose and treat
Cardiologists use a variety of tests and imaging techniques, including electrocardiography (ECG), echocardiography, stress tests, and angiography. They may also recommend medications or surgery.
Types of cardiology
There are several subspecialties within cardiology, including cardiac electrophysiology, echocardiography, interventional cardiology, and nuclear cardiology.
The word cardiology comes from the Greek words kardiā, which means "heart," and -logia, which means "study".