Heart Specialist Care in Singapore

If you’re experiencing heart-related symptoms or have been diagnosed with a cardiac condition, seeking care from a qualified heart specialist is crucial for your cardiovascular health. Heart specialists, also known as cardiologists, are medical professionals who specialise in diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases of the heart and blood vessels. In Singapore, MOH-accredited cardiologists provide comprehensive cardiac care using established diagnostic tools and treatment approaches to help patients maintain heart health and manage various cardiovascular conditions.

*Individual results and treatment outcomes may vary.*

Dr. Kua Jieli

Senior Consultant
Cardiologist (Intervention)

MBBS (SG) | MRCP (UK) | MMed (Internal Med) (SG) | FAMS (Cardiology, SG)

Who Should See a Heart Specialist? Diagnostic Services Conditions Process Treatment Benefits Risks Cost FAQ Conclusion

What is a Heart Specialist?

A heart specialist or cardiologist is a medical doctor who has completed additional training in cardiovascular medicine. These healthcare professionals focus on the heart and circulatory system, with knowledge of cardiac anatomy, physiology, and pathology. In Singapore, cardiologists must complete training after medical school, including internal medicine and cardiology fellowships.

Heart specialists diagnose and treat a range of cardiovascular conditions, from issues like high blood pressure and coronary artery disease to heart rhythm disorders and heart failure. They use diagnostic techniques including electrocardiograms (ECGs), echocardiography, stress tests, and cardiac catheterisation to assess heart function and identify abnormalities.

Cardiologists also play a role in preventive medicine. They may help patients understand their cardiovascular risk factors and develop strategies to maintain heart health through lifestyle modifications, medication management, and regular monitoring.

Who Should See a Heart Specialist?

Ideal Candidates for Cardiology Consultation

Individuals experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations
Patients with diagnosed high blood pressure or high cholesterol
Those with a family history of heart disease or sudden cardiac death
People with diabetes or other conditions that may increase cardiovascular risk
Individuals seeking preventive cardiac screening
Patients with known heart conditions requiring ongoing management
Those experiencing fatigue, dizziness, or fainting episodes
People with abnormal results from routine heart tests

When Immediate Consultation is Necessary

Severe chest pain or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Difficulty breathing accompanied by chest discomfort
Rapid or irregular heartbeat with dizziness or weakness
Sudden swelling in legs, ankles, or feet
Unexplained fainting or near-fainting episodes

A cardiologist can help determine whether your symptoms may indicate a cardiac condition requiring intervention or if they stem from other causes. Early consultation can support better outcomes and provide more treatment options.

*Individual results and timelines may vary. This consultation is part of a comprehensive assessment supervised by a healthcare professional.*

Cardiac Diagnostic Services & Assessments


Non-Invasive Cardiac Tests	Cardiologists use various non-invasive diagnostic tools to evaluate cardiac function and detect abnormalities. Electrocardiography (ECG) records the heart’s electrical activity and can identify irregular rhythms, previous heart attacks, and other cardiac issues. Echocardiography uses ultrasound technology to create detailed images of the heart’s structure and function, revealing valve problems, heart muscle abnormalities, and fluid accumulation.
Stress Testing & Advanced Imaging	Exercise stress tests evaluate how the heart performs under physical exertion, helping identify coronary artery disease and assess exercise capacity. For patients unable to exercise, pharmacological stress tests achieve similar results using medications. Advanced imaging techniques like cardiac CT scans and cardiac MRI provide detailed anatomical and functional information about the heart and blood vessels.
Invasive Diagnostic Procedures	When non-invasive tests are insufficient, cardiologists may recommend cardiac catheterisation. This procedure involves threading a thin tube through blood vessels to the heart, allowing direct measurement of pressures and oxygen levels. Coronary angiography, performed during catheterisation, visualises the coronary arteries to detect blockages or narrowing.

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Common Heart Conditions Treated

Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries supplying blood to the heart muscle. Cardiologists may manage this condition through lifestyle modifications, medications to control risk factors, and procedures like angioplasty or bypass surgery when necessary. Regular monitoring can help prevent heart attacks and support long-term management.
Heart Rhythm Disorders

Arrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats, range from benign palpitations to serious conditions. Cardiologists diagnose these disorders using monitoring devices and may treat them with medications, catheter ablation procedures, or implantable devices like pacemakers and defibrillators.
Heart Failure Management

Heart failure requires comprehensive management to support quality of life and reduce hospitalisation risk. Cardiologists develop individualised treatment plans incorporating medications, dietary modifications, exercise programmes, and device therapy when appropriate. Regular follow-up aims to ensure appropriate medication dosing and early detection of changes.
Valvular Heart Disease

Heart valve problems can affect blood flow through the heart. Cardiologists monitor valve function and determine timing for intervention, whether through medication management, minimally invasive procedures, or surgical valve repair or replacement.

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The Cardiology Consultation Process

Pre-Consultation Preparation

Before your appointment, gather relevant medical records, including previous test results, current medications, and family medical history. Document your symptoms, noting when they occur, their severity, and any triggering factors. Prepare questions about your condition and treatment options. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for physical examination.

During the Consultation

The cardiologist will review your medical history and conduct a thorough physical examination, focusing on cardiovascular signs. They’ll listen to your heart and lungs, check blood pressure and pulse, and examine for signs of fluid retention or circulation problems. Based on initial findings, they may recommend tests like an ECG or schedule additional diagnostic procedures as appropriate.

Post-Consultation Follow-up

After reviewing test results, your cardiologist will discuss findings and treatment recommendations. They’ll explain your condition in understandable terms and outline management strategies. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor progress and adjust treatments as needed. You’ll receive guidance on lifestyle modifications and warning signs that may require medical attention.

*Individual treatment plans and outcomes may vary.*

Treatment Approaches in Cardiology

Medical Management

Many cardiac conditions may respond to medication therapy. Cardiologists prescribe and monitor various medications including blood pressure drugs, cholesterol-lowering agents, anticoagulants, and heart rhythm medications. They carefully balance effectiveness with potential side effects, adjusting dosages based on response and tolerance.

*Individual results and treatment responses may vary.*
Interventional Procedures

Contemporary cardiology offers numerous minimally invasive procedures performed in cardiac catheterisation laboratories. Coronary angioplasty opens blocked arteries using balloon catheters and stents. Catheter ablation treats certain arrhythmias by destroying small areas of heart tissue causing irregular rhythms. These procedures may provide symptom relief with shorter recovery times than traditional surgery.

*The extent and durability of improvement vary by individual anatomy and condition severity.*
Surgical Interventions

When less invasive options are insufficient, cardiologists work with cardiac surgeons to determine if surgical intervention is necessary. They provide pre-operative assessment, post-operative care coordination, and long-term follow-up to support surgical outcomes and recovery.
Cardiac Rehabilitation

Comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation programmes supervised by cardiologists help patients recover from heart events and procedures. These programmes combine supervised exercise, education, and counselling to improve cardiovascular fitness, reduce risk factors, and enhance quality of life.

*This treatment is administered as part of a comprehensive plan supervised by a healthcare professional.*

Find out which treatment approach may be suitable for your heart condition.

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Benefits of Regular Cardiac Care

Regular consultations with a MOH-accredited cardiologist may provide advantages for cardiovascular health. Early detection of cardiac issues may allow for timely intervention, which could help reduce the risk of complications like heart attacks or strokes. Ongoing monitoring aims to ensure that treatments remain effective and are adjusted as conditions change.

Cardiologists can provide personalised risk assessment, helping patients understand their individual cardiovascular risk profile and consider appropriate preventive measures. They offer guidance on lifestyle modifications, including diet, exercise, stress management, and smoking cessation, tailored to each patient’s specific needs and capabilities.

For those with established heart conditions, regular specialist care aims to optimise medication regimens, which may help reduce symptoms and support quality of life. Cardiologists coordinate care with other healthcare providers, aiming to ensure comprehensive management of conditions that affect heart health, such as diabetes or kidney disease.

*Individual results and treatment outcomes may vary. This care is provided as part of a comprehensive plan supervised by a healthcare professional.*

Potential Risks & Considerations

Common Side Effects of Cardiac Medications

Cardiac medications may be associated with side effects such as fatigue, dizziness, or cough in some patients. Healthcare professionals monitor for these effects and may adjust medications accordingly. They can provide strategies that aim to minimise side effects while maintaining therapeutic benefits. Regular blood tests help ensure medications are not affecting kidney or liver function.

Procedural Risks

Cardiac procedures carry potential risks. Diagnostic catheterisation may involve risks such as bleeding, infection, or allergic reactions to contrast dye. Interventional procedures have additional potential risks including blood vessel damage or need for emergency surgery. Healthcare professionals discuss these risks and take precautions that aim to minimise complications.

Your healthcare professional will carefully weigh the benefits and risks of any recommended procedure, considering your overall health status and specific cardiac condition. They will ensure you understand all aspects of proposed treatments before proceeding.

*Individual results and outcomes may vary.*

Cost Considerations

Cardiac care costs vary depending on your condition’s complexity and required treatments. Initial consultations typically include physical examination and basic tests like ECG. Additional diagnostic procedures, ongoing monitoring, and treatments incur separate charges. Factors affecting cost include the type and number of tests needed, whether procedures are performed, and frequency of follow-up visits.

Many cardiac conditions require long-term management, making cost planning important. Your cardiologist can provide estimates for recommended treatments and discuss options for managing expenses. Cardiac care represents an approach to health management that may help in monitoring and managing cardiovascular conditions.

*Individual treatment plans and associated costs may vary. Consult with your healthcare professional for personalised advice regarding your specific condition and treatment options.*

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When should I see a heart specialist versus a general practitioner?

General practitioners can manage basic cardiovascular risk factors like mild hypertension or cholesterol. You may consider seeing a cardiologist if you have persistent cardiac symptoms, multiple risk factors, abnormal test results, or a strong family history of heart disease. Your GP may refer you to a cardiologist when your condition requires specialised expertise or if initial treatments aren’t providing adequate control.

How often should I have cardiac check-ups?

The frequency of cardiac check-ups depends on your risk factors and existing conditions. Healthy adults with no risk factors might need screening periodically after age 40. Those with risk factors like diabetes or family history may need more frequent assessments. Patients with established heart disease typically require follow-up, though this varies based on condition stability and treatment response.

*Individual results and timelines may vary.*

What can I expect during a cardiac stress test?

During an exercise stress test, you’ll walk on a treadmill or pedal a stationary bike while your heart rhythm, blood pressure, and symptoms are monitored. The test starts at a slow pace and gradually increases in speed and incline. The test stops when you reach target heart rate, develop symptoms, or become too tired to continue. Results help determine if your heart receives adequate blood flow during exertion.

Can heart disease be reversed through lifestyle changes?

Advanced heart disease cannot be completely reversed, but lifestyle modifications may help slow progression and improve symptoms. Regular exercise, heart-healthy diet, weight management, and stress reduction can improve cardiac function and reduce risk factors. Some patients may experience improvement through dedicated lifestyle changes combined with appropriate medical therapy. Your cardiologist will guide you on realistic goals based on your specific situation.

*Individual results and timelines may vary.*

What’s the difference between a heart attack and angina?

*Indiv

Angina is temporary chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart, typically during exertion or stress. The pain usually subsides with rest or medication. A heart attack occurs when blood flow to part of the heart is completely blocked, causing permanent muscle damage. Heart attack pain is typically more severe, lasts longer, and doesn’t improve with rest. Both conditions require medical attention, but a heart attack is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment.

Do I need to stop all activities if diagnosed with a heart condition?

Many patients with heart conditions can maintain active lifestyles with appropriate modifications. Your cardiologist will provide specific guidance based on your condition and overall health. Many cardiac patients may benefit from regular exercise as part of their treatment plan. The key is finding the right type and intensity of activity that’s safe and beneficial for your specific situation. Cardiac rehabilitation programmes help patients return to activities safely after heart events or procedures.

*Individual results and timelines may vary.*

Conclusion

Consulting with a heart specialist in Singapore provides access to comprehensive cardiovascular care tailored to your individual needs. Whether you’re seeking preventive screening, managing risk factors, or treating an existing heart condition, MOH-accredited cardiologists offer experience in modern diagnostic techniques and evidence-based treatments. Regular cardiac care may help maintain heart health, manage chronic conditions, and support overall quality of life. Taking proactive steps to address cardiovascular health today may help prevent serious complications tomorrow.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re concerned about your heart health or have been experiencing cardiac symptoms, our MOH-accredited cardiologists can provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment plans. With experience in managing all aspects of cardiovascular disease, we provide compassionate care throughout your cardiac health journey.

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Dr. Kua Jieli

Senior Consultant
Cardiologist (Intervention)

MBBS (SG)|MRCP (UK)|MMed (Internal Med) (SG)|FAMS (Cardiology, SG)

A Senior Consultant Cardiologist specialising in interventional cardiology and serves as the Medical Director at Carrington Cardiology, located at Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre in Singapore.

Dr. Kua obtained his MBBS from the National University of Singapore. He furthered his medical education by earning an MRCP in the UK and an MMed in Internal Medicine from NUS. He completed advanced training in interventional cardiology at Hammersmith Hospital in London.
Dr. Kua’s international training at Hammersmith Hospital provided him with extensive experience in complex coronary interventions and exposure to advanced cardiovascular research. He served as an International Cardiology Fellow and Honorary Consultant during his tenure there.

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