Cardiac Screening

Overview

Cardiac screening is a proactive group of tests designed to evaluate the health of your heart before serious problems arise. In India, heart disease is becoming increasingly common among younger adults due to rapid lifestyle changes, high-stress environments, and genetic factors. At Sanjeevi Hospital in Sangareddy, we focus on early identification of risks like high blood pressure, cholesterol imbalances, and rhythm irregularities. Heart disease often stays hidden, showing no signs until a major event occurs. By undergoing regular screenings, you allow our specialists to map your cardiovascular health and create a personalized plan to keep your heart strong. This is not just a medical test; it is a vital step toward a longer, healthier life for you and your family. We use the latest diagnostic tools to provide accurate results, ensuring that any potential issues are addressed with the right care and lifestyle adjustments at the earliest stage possible.

Symptoms to watch for

• Occasional mild chest discomfort or a feeling of heaviness during physical activity
• Feeling easily fatigued or out of breath after climbing stairs or walking short distances
• Slight swelling in the ankles or feet that worsens towards the evening
• Occasional episodes of rapid, fluttering, or skipping heartbeats
• Mild dizziness or lightheadedness when standing up quickly
• A persistent cough that does not go away, especially when lying down
• Occasional numbness or a cold feeling in the hands and legs
• Reduced stamina during regular household chores or exercise sessions

Causes & risk factors

• High intake of oily, fried foods and excessive salt common in modern diets
• Sedentary lifestyle with limited physical movement or daily exercise
• Genetic predisposition or a family history of heart attacks and strokes
• Unmanaged high blood pressure which puts constant strain on the heart walls
• High levels of 'bad' cholesterol leading to plaque buildup in the arteries
• Chronic stress from work or personal life affecting heart rhythm and pressure
• History of diabetes or high blood sugar which damages blood vessels over time
• Long-term habit of smoking or exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke

Diagnosis

• Electrocardiogram (ECG) to check the heart's electrical activity and rhythm
• Echocardiogram (2D Echo) to view the structure and pumping capacity of the heart
• Lipid Profile blood test to measure cholesterol and triglyceride levels
• Treadmill Test (TMT) to evaluate how the heart responds to physical stress
• Blood pressure monitoring to identify hypertension patterns over time
• HBA1C and Fasting Blood Sugar tests to assess metabolic heart risk
• Chest X-ray to examine the size of the heart and the condition of the lungs

Treatment options

Prevention & self-care

• Include more fiber-rich foods like whole grains, pulses, and green leafy vegetables in your meals
• Aim for at least 30 minutes of brisk walking or moderate exercise five days a week
• Restrict the use of 'Vanaspati' and reused cooking oils in your daily cooking
• Monitor your weight regularly and maintain a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI)
• Practice deep breathing or meditation for 10 minutes daily to manage stress levels
• Limit the intake of sugar-sweetened beverages and highly processed snacks
• Ensure you get 7-8 hours of restful sleep every night to allow heart recovery
• Schedule an annual cardiac screening even if you feel perfectly healthy and fit