Common heart conditions
Conditions We Manage
Dr MacDonald manages the full spectrum of cardiac conditions, from common presentations to complex cases.
Hyperlipidaemia
Elevated cholesterol and lipid levels are a primary driver of atherosclerosis. Dr MacDonald provides detailed lipid assessment including advanced markers such as ApoB and Lipoprotein(a), and develops tailored treatment strategies using lifestyle modification, statins, and newer lipid-lowering therapies where appropriate.
Diabetes & Cardiometabolic Disease
Type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome are among the strongest drivers of cardiovascular risk. Dr MacDonald is a certified obesity physician and provides integrated cardiometabolic assessment and management, including advanced lipid profiling, glucose and insulin assessment, lifestyle optimisation, and coordination of pharmacological therapy with a focus on agents that lower both cardiovascular and metabolic risk. The aim is to treat the underlying driver of disease, not just the downstream cardiac consequences.
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Hypertension is one of the most common cardiovascular conditions and a major risk factor for heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and heart failure. It is often asymptomatic, which is why it is frequently called a “silent killer.” Dr MacDonald provides comprehensive assessment including ambulatory blood pressure monitoring to ensure accurate diagnosis, investigation for secondary causes, and personalised treatment plans.
Coronary Artery Disease
The build-up of atherosclerotic plaque in the coronary arteries can lead to angina (chest tightness or pain on exertion) or, if a plaque ruptures, a heart attack. Management includes medical therapy, lifestyle optimisation, and where indicated, interventional procedures such as coronary angioplasty and stenting. For suitable patients, Dr MacDonald also offers plaque stabilisation and reversal strategies.
Heart Failure
Heart failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood effectively to meet the body’s needs. It can result from previous heart attacks, long-standing hypertension, valve disease, or inherited conditions. Symptoms include breathlessness, fatigue, and fluid retention. Dr MacDonald trained at one of the UK’s specialist heart failure and transplant units and has extensive experience managing both acute and chronic heart failure, including advanced therapies and device-based treatments.
Atrial Fibrillation & Arrhythmias
Arrhythmias are abnormal heart rhythms that can range from benign extra beats to serious conditions requiring treatment. Atrial fibrillation is the most common sustained arrhythmia and significantly increases the risk of stroke. Management options include medication, cardioversion, catheter ablation, and anticoagulation therapy. Other arrhythmias managed include supraventricular tachycardia, ventricular tachycardia, and bradyarrhythmias.
Valvular Heart Disease
Heart valve conditions include stenosis (narrowing) and regurgitation (leaking) of the mitral, aortic, tricuspid, and pulmonary valves. These can be congenital, degenerative, or caused by infections such as rheumatic fever. Dr MacDonald uses echocardiography and cardiac MRI to assess valve disease and works closely with cardiac surgeons for patients requiring valve repair or replacement.
Inherited Heart Conditions
Some heart conditions are genetic, including familial hypercholesterolaemia, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, dilated cardiomyopathy, and inherited arrhythmia syndromes. Dr MacDonald provides assessment, genetic counselling coordination, and ongoing management for patients with heritable cardiac conditions, as well as screening of family members where appropriate.