Cardio-oncology
Overview - When to see a cardiologist - Symptoms - Causes - Treatment
Overview
Cancer treatments save lives but can sometimes lead to heart issues, both during and after treatment. These heart problems may be minor and manageable, but some can be more serious, even emerging years later.
Regular cardiac checkups are essential for early detection and intervention, both during and after cancer treatment.
When to See a Cardiologist
You may be referred to a cardiologist with expertise in cardio-oncology at different stages of your cancer journey. This could be before starting treatment, particularly if you already have a heart condition, cardiovascular risk factors (such as high blood pressure or diabetes), or are due to receive therapies known to affect the heart.
A cardiology review may also be recommended during or after cancer treatment if there are concerns about heart function, abnormal test results, or new cardiovascular symptoms. Survivors of cancer may benefit from longer-term follow-up to detect and manage late effects on the heart, sometimes years after treatment has finished.
Symptoms
Heart-related symptoms during or after cancer treatment can vary and may be subtle. They can include shortness of breath, chest discomfort, palpitations, dizziness, swelling of the ankles or legs, unusual fatigue, or reduced exercise tolerance. Some people may have no symptoms at all, with changes only detected on scans, blood tests, or heart rhythm monitoring.
Because these symptoms can overlap with the effects of cancer or its treatment, early assessment by a cardiologist is important to clarify the cause and guide appropriate care.
Treatments
Treatment in cardio-oncology depends on the individual’s heart health, cancer therapy, and overall risk profile. It may include regular heart imaging, ECGs, and blood tests to monitor cardiac function. Where needed, medications can be used to protect the heart, control blood pressure, manage heart rhythm problems, or treat heart failure.
Care is closely coordinated with the oncology team to allow cancer treatment to continue safely whenever possible. Lifestyle advice and long-term cardiovascular risk reduction are also key parts of care, supporting heart health well beyond the completion of cancer therapy.
Treatment
Treatment in cardio-oncology depends on the individual’s heart health, cancer therapy, and overall risk profile. It may include regular heart imaging, ECGs, and blood tests to monitor cardiac function. Where needed, medications can be used to protect the heart, control blood pressure, manage heart rhythm problems, or treat heart failure.
Care is closely coordinated with the oncology team to allow cancer treatment to continue safely whenever possible. Lifestyle advice and long-term cardiovascular risk reduction are also key parts of care, supporting heart health well beyond the completion of cancer therapy.