Contents
Heart Disease
Overview
Heart disease (cardiovascular disease) includes conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels—coronary artery disease, heart failure, rhythm problems and valve disorders. Left unchecked, it can lead to heart attack, heart failure and stroke, but most risks are manageable with timely diagnosis and targeted treatment.
At The New Foscote Hospital, Banbury you’ll receive consultant‑led assessment, swift blood testing, access to advanced imaging, tailored medication plans and structured outpatient rehabilitation—all in one calm, private setting.
Why Early Action Matters
- Prevents heart attack, stroke and sudden cardiac death
- Controls high blood pressure and cholesterol before they damage arteries
- Reduces chest pain, breathlessness and fatigue so you can stay active
- Protects kidneys, brain and eyesight from vascular damage
- Improves quality of life and long‑term independence
Symptoms You Might Notice
- Chest tightness, pressure or discomfort—especially with exertion or stress
- Shortness of breath, swollen ankles or sudden rapid weight gain
- Palpitations, fluttering or irregular heartbeats
- Dizziness, fainting or near‑fainting spells
- Leg pain when walking (claudication) or cold, pale toes
- Persistent high blood pressure readings at home
Call 999 immediately if you experience crushing chest pain, sudden weakness on one side, facial droop or speech difficulty.
Who Is Most At Risk?
- High blood pressure, high “bad” (LDL) cholesterol or diabetes
- Smoking, vaping nicotine or heavy alcohol use
- Overweight—particularly central (abdominal) weight gain
- Family history of early heart attack or stroke (men <55, women <65)
- Sedentary lifestyle and ultra‑processed, high‑salt diets
- Chronic kidney disease, autoimmune disorders or long‑term steroid use
- Obstructive sleep apnoea and chronic stress
When To Book An Assessment
Phone 01295 252 281 if you:
- Have ongoing chest discomfort, breathlessness or palpitations
- Want a comprehensive heart and stroke‑risk evaluation
- Need cardiology clearance before surgery or long‑haul travel
- Struggle to reach blood‑pressure or cholesterol targets despite medication
How We Diagnose And Monitor Heart Disease
- Consultant Cardiology Review – detailed history, medication check and examination in our Cardiology Service.
- Rapid Laboratory Testing – lipid profile, HbA1c, kidney and thyroid function via our Blood‑Testing Service, typically back within 24 hours.
- Imaging And Functional Tests – echocardiography, stress tests and cardiac MRI arranged promptly; CT coronary angiography or calcium scoring organised the same day at our sister site (The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital) when needed.
- Rhythm Monitoring – 24‑hour Holter or event recorders to capture intermittent arrhythmias.
- Blood‑Pressure Profiling – ambulatory or home BP validation to fine‑tune targets.
- Structured Follow‑Up – reviews every 3–12 months (individualised to your risk profile and treatment plan).
Treatment And Ongoing Support
Lifestyle & Prevention
- Mediterranean‑style nutrition, salt reduction and weight management with our Dietetic Team
- Supervised exercise and strength training through the Cardiac & Stroke Rehabilitation service available at our sister site
- Smoking cessation, alcohol moderation and sleep optimisation via our Private GP Service
Medication Optimisation
- Statins, ezetimibe or PCSK9 inhibitors to drive LDL cholesterol down
- ACE inhibitors/ARBs, calcium‑channel blockers or beta‑blockers for blood‑pressure control
- Antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy where clot risk is high (e.g., atrial fibrillation)
- SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP‑1 receptor agonists for people with diabetes and cardiovascular risk
Procedural Pathways (If Required)
- Rapid referral to regional centres for angioplasty, stenting, pacemaker/ICD implantation or valve intervention—with pre‑ and post‑procedure care coordinated back at The New Foscote Hospital.
Why Choose The New Foscote Hospital
- Consultant‑delivered cardiology clinics with appointments usually available within one week
- Swift blood testing and imaging access in one convenient location
- Integrated dietetics, rehabilitation and pain services—no need for multiple sites
- Seamless links to our sister hospital for CT and to regional cardiac units for procedures
- Free parking, flexible appointment times and a tranquil environment
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Heart Disease Be Reversed?
Plaque can stabilise and sometimes regress with intensive lifestyle change and optimal medication, significantly cutting event risk.
Do I Need A CT Scan Or MRI?
Not everyone does. We choose tests that change management—your cardiologist will advise on the most informative, least invasive options.
What Numbers Should I Aim For?
Many high‑risk adults aim for BP <130/80 mmHg and LDL cholesterol well below 2.0 mmol/L. Targets are tailored to individual needs.
Protect Your Heart And Brain
Call 01295 252 281 or enquire online to arrange your heart‑disease assessment and personalised prevention plan.
24 July 2025