Cardiology

Cardiology

CARDIOLOGY

Cardiology (derived from Greek, meaning the study of the heart) is a medical specialty that originates from internal medicine. It studies and treats both congenital and acquired diseases of the heart and circulation, as well as conducts screening tests to prevent these conditions. Cardiovascular diseases are among the leading causes of death worldwide and account for more than half of all fatalities in Hungary. The most common conditions include coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, chest pain, stroke, and heart failure. In most cases, heart disease manifests late, making prevention and early diagnosis of great importance.

Although electrocardiography (ECG) is only a small part of cardiological diagnostics as it examines the electrical function of the heart, it is widely recognized as synonymous with cardiology. The 1970s marked the beginning of its use, and by the 1980s, ECG had become a fundamental examination in cardiology, representing a milestone in non-invasive cardiology. While the ECG is an important tool in cardiological diagnostics, it is not a comprehensive examination method. In the 1980s, cardiological knowledge expanded significantly, leading to the introduction of new cardiological devices and diagnostic methods.