Heart Disease

What is heart disease?

Heart disease – also referred to as coronary heart disease (CHD) – is an umbrella term that refers to a thickening of the heart arteries. While this can precipitate angina in some people many people don’t have any symptoms at all. This thickening process occurs over time and can make the risk of developing a heart attack steadily higher. It is important to diagnose and test for heart disease as soon as possible, as individualised treatment is required to halt and try to reverse the disease process, reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

How do you test for heart disease and how is it treated?

Treatment of heart disease within the NHS relies on calculating an individual’s chances of having the disease based on generic risk calculators. This algorithm approach is proven to be inaccurate for a large number of people. At Venturi we use state-of-the-art imaging and diagnostic technology to test for heart disease; allowing us to establish with certainty your level of risk. We may carry out a number of tests including an ECG or echo and we may also want to take some bloods. If you are deemed at risk, we utilise the following tests for heart disease – coronary artery calcium scores and CT coronary angiography to diagnose whether you have heart artery disease. Once we have a diagnosis we will be able to offer you personalised treatment strategies that will reduce your risk of heart attacks and strokes. This may involve medications and specific lifestyle interventions, depending on your unique physiology.

We understand that thinking about having tests for heart disease may seem daunting but they sooner it is diagnosed, the sooner you are able to make the changes you need to get your heart health back on track. At Venturi, we will support you every step of the way, providing a bespoke treatment plan based on your needs. If you would like to speak to us about the tests we are very happy to discuss any of them with you and put your mind at rest. The BHF also have a heart helpline which can offer additional support for those with questions about heart disease or the tests for heart disease.

For more information on all the tests available for heart disease click here

The British Heart Foundation also provides additional information and helpful video footage on the different diagnostics and tests for heart disease. Please visit their website for more information.

We see both privately insured and self funding patients.

Please see our packages for self funding rates. We offer video consultations for patients who do not want to travel.

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