Ischaemic Heart Disease
Also known as: Ischemic heart disease, Myocardial ischaemia, IHD, Reduced blood flow to the heart, Myocardial infarction
Expert diagnosis and management at Complete Heart Centre. All consultations and diagnostic tests are 100% bulk billed through Medicare. All cardiology referrals accepted.
About Ischaemic Heart Disease
Ischaemic heart disease (IHD) occurs when the blood supply to the heart muscle is reduced, usually due to narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries. The word "ischaemia" means inadequate blood supply. When the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood, it can cause chest pain (angina), and if blood flow is severely or completely blocked, it can result in a heart attack (myocardial infarction). Ischaemic heart disease is the single leading cause of death in Australia and the most common form of heart disease worldwide. It encompasses a spectrum of conditions ranging from stable angina to acute coronary syndromes including unstable angina and heart attacks. Risk factors include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, obesity, physical inactivity, and a family history of premature heart disease.
Common Symptoms
- Chest pain, pressure, or heaviness — often triggered by physical exertion, emotional stress, or cold weather
- Pain that may radiate to the left arm, neck, jaw, back, or stomach
- Shortness of breath during activity or at rest in advanced cases
- Nausea, sweating, or light-headedness accompanying chest discomfort
- Fatigue and reduced ability to exercise compared to previously
- Some people — particularly women and people with diabetes — may experience atypical symptoms such as unusual tiredness, indigestion, or breathlessness without chest pain
When to See a Cardiologist
If you experience recurrent chest pain or tightness, particularly with exertion or stress, ask your GP for a referral to a cardiologist. If you have significant risk factors — such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, obesity, or a family history of heart disease — a specialist assessment can help determine your risk and whether further investigation is needed. If you experience sudden, severe chest pain that does not resolve within a few minutes, call 000 immediately as this may be a heart attack.
How We Investigate
Dr Grewal uses several tests to diagnose and assess ischaemic heart disease. A stress echocardiogram evaluates how the heart muscle performs under physical stress — areas of the heart that are not receiving adequate blood flow will show reduced movement during exercise. A CT coronary angiogram including calcium score produces detailed 3D images of the coronary arteries to directly visualise any narrowing, plaque build-up, or blockages. The coronary artery calcium score provides a numerical measure of calcified plaque burden, which is a strong predictor of future heart events. An echocardiogram assesses overall heart function and can detect areas of heart muscle damage from a previous heart attack. Dr Grewal holds Grade A accreditation in CT coronary angiography — the highest level available — and will recommend the most appropriate investigation based on your symptoms and risk profile. All consultations and in-clinic tests are fully bulk billed through Medicare.
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Your cost with Medicare
Related Diagnostic Services
Need Urgent Help?
If you are experiencing sudden or severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness, call 000 immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ischaemic heart disease.
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All consultations and diagnostic tests are 100% bulk billed through Medicare.
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Concerned About Ischaemic Heart Disease?
With a Medicare card and GP referral, your specialist consultation and all diagnostic tests are fully bulk billed. Book at our Sydenham, Bundoora or Williams Landing clinic.