Latest Advice & Insights in Cardiac Care
Evidence-based articles on cardiovascular health, written by our expert team at Dr Matthew Balerdi. Stay informed about the latest developments in cardiology and heart health.
How Long Is the NHS Wait for a Cardiologist?
The NHS wait for a first cardiology outpatient appointment is currently 18 to 52 weeks in many parts of England. The 18-week referral-to-treatment target...
By Dr Matthew Balerdi
Is a Stress Echo Better Than a Treadmill Test?
A stress echocardiogram is more accurate than a treadmill test for detecting coronary artery disease. The stress echo has a sensitivity of around 80–85%...
By Dr Matthew Balerdi
What Does a Cardiologist Do at Your First Appointment?
At a first private cardiology appointment, your cardiologist will take a detailed history, examine your heart and lungs, and perform a resting ECG. If...
By Dr Matthew Balerdi
Private Cardiologist Costs UK: ECG, Echo & Consultation Prices
A private cardiology consultation in the UK typically costs £150–£300. An echocardiogram costs £300–£450. Most patients pay for a consultation and, if...
By Dr Matthew Balerdi
Is It Worth Seeing a Private Cardiologist?
For many patients, seeing a private cardiologist is worth it primarily because of speed. NHS waiting times for a first cardiology appointment currently...
By Dr Matthew Balerdi
What Does a Stress Echo Show That a Normal Echo Doesn't?
A stress echocardiogram shows what a resting echocardiogram cannot: how the heart muscle behaves when it is working hard. Coronary artery disease —...
By Dr Matthew Balerdi
An Update on Lipoprotein(a): Testing, Treatment, and Guideline Recommendations
https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/Articles/2023/09/19/10/54/An-Update-on-Lipoprotein-a?t&utm_source=perplexity Quick Takes Lipoprotein(a)...
By Dr Matthew Balerdi
Understanding Your Lipoprotein(a) Result
Introduction If you've recently had a blood test that included Lipoprotein(a) — often written as Lp(a) — and your result came back elevated, you may be...
By Dr Matthew Balerdi
Vagus Nerve Reset: A Guide to the Stanley Rosenberg Exercises
The vagus nerve is the longest cranial nerve in the body, running from the brainstem through the neck, chest, and abdomen. It plays a crucial role in...
By Dr Matthew Balerdi
My New Tablets Are Making Me Feel Unwell — What Should I Do?
Overview Starting a new medication can sometimes cause side effects that make you feel unwell. Here is a step-by-step guide on what to do if you think...
By Dr Matthew Balerdi
Sleep Hygiene: Advice for Better Sleep
What is Sleep Hygiene? Sleep hygiene refers to the habits and practices that support regular, high-quality sleep. Good sleep hygiene can significantly...
By Dr Matthew Balerdi
Will I Experience Plaque Regression on Statins?
Introduction One of the most common questions patients ask when starting statin therapy is whether their existing coronary plaque will actually shrink....
By Dr Matthew Balerdi
White Coat Hypertension: What Does It Mean for My Future?
Introduction Being told you have "white coat hypertension" — blood pressure that is elevated in the clinic but normal at home — can be both reassuring and...
By Dr Matthew Balerdi
Intermittent Lightheadedness: Advice and Management
Overview Intermittent lightheadedness is a common symptom that can often be managed with simple lifestyle adjustments. The following advice is intended to...
By Dr Matthew Balerdi
FAQs
Intermittent lightheadedness advice Will I experience plaque regression on statins? My new tablets are making me feel unwell, what should I do? Sleep...
By Dr Matthew Balerdi
Coronary Calcification on a Lung Health Check: What should be done?
Introduction The Targeted Lung Health Check (TLHC) program was designed to detect lung caner in the early stages and improve outcomes. What we have seen...
By Dr Matthew Balerdi
The Truth of Chilling: Heart risks and benefits of cold water exposure
Introduction In clinic last week, a patient asked whether they could begin cold water swimming following their bout of a particular heart problem. Whilst...
By Dr Matthew Balerdi