There are many risk factors that cause long-term damage to the heart. Some of these are easily detectable and can be influenced. A preventive check-up is worthwhile from the age of around 50, or even earlier in the case of complaints or a family history of problems in this
area. Only those who know their risk factors can act with the appropriate foresight. Experienced heart specialists take their time and provide advice that is tailored to the patient. That’s because a heart-healthy lifestyle helps to achieve a lasting sense of well-being and can
prevent cardiovascular disease.

High blood pressure, for example, can be insidious as it often goes noticed. This excessive pressure damages vessel walls and places undue strain on the organs. It is a major risk factor for stroke, heart attack and heart failure. Lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and exercise can already help to improve blood pressure. If it cannot be lowered sufficiently by these methods alone, professionals should inform on potential medication and provide a course of treatment. Specialist doctors provide comprehensive support when it comes to advising and implementing the best possible preventive care.

The Hirslanden clinics have state-of-the-art medical technology at their disposal. When used judiciously, these facilitate comprehensive cardiac medical care. It is important to customise the choice of diagnostics, since the same investigations would not always make sense for every patient.

Thanks to the countless options when it comes to wearable diagnostic devices, cardiac monitoring is possible from a distance, too. These can be a huge help to those proactively working to effectively control risk factors such as blood pressure and sugar levels. Cardiac arrhythmias can be detected in ECGs recorded on a smartwatch and, if necessary, transmitted digitally to a trusted doctor. This simplifies diagnostics and provides assurance. The Hirslanden heart specialists are happy to offer assistance in selecting the right method.

Coronary heart disease and heart attacks were long considered diseases typically suffered by men. In fact, women are just as affected, but coronary disease often develops and presents differently in women. The required diagnosis and treatment of heart disease also often differs from that for men. Better awareness of “the little differences” when it comes to heart disease is essential and benefits female patients.

Cardiogenetics at “Hirslanden Precise” examines the genes that can be associated with heart disease. In an individual consultation, the effects of the gene profile on health are explained – for more effective prevention and treatment options.

Thanks to ongoing investment in research into cancer treatments, many types can now be treated and even cured. However, it is not uncommon for these therapies to have side effects and also damage the heart, among other consequences. Individual risk should therefore be assessed for each patient prior to such treatment. Support might then be required while undergoing treatment and in the long term during aftercare. Particular attention should always be paid to heart health, even if any cancer treatments took place many years ago.

If the heart is no longer performing properly, this has a massive impact on wellbeing and capabilities. The internationally renowned cardiologists at Hirslanden clinics offer the full range of cardiac therapies and set great store by a multidisciplinary approach. Short channels of communication allow for comprehensive and personal care by specialist doctors. The focus is on highly individualised treatment that is as gentle as possible. With the multitude of therapeutic options available, from treatment with drugs and catheter-based procedures to minimally invasive and conventional surgical interventions, a tailored selection is of central importance for therapeutic success.

Written by Dr Kathrin Zimmermann

Dr Daniel Liedtke is CEO of the Hirslanden Swiss Hospital Group and a member of the Executive Board of Mediclinic International. Previously, the 52-year-old was Chief Operating Officer (2015 to 2018) and Director (2008 to 2015) of Klinik Hirslanden Zürich. Under his leadership, Hirslanden has evolved from a pure hospital group into an integrated healthcare provider and major market player in highly specialised cancer, cardiac and musculoskeletal medicine, which is also making its mark in the field of digital health and with private-public partnerships.