Coastal Cardiology

Coastal Cardiology Dr Chris Critoph Consultant Cardiologist based in Bournemouth, Dorset.

Every patient and every case is different so when you come to see me at Coastal Cardiology, you will receive a personali...
15/04/2026

Every patient and every case is different so when you come to see me at Coastal Cardiology, you will receive a personalised service just for you.

We will take the time to discuss your symptoms in detail, carry out all the necessary tests to reach a diagnosis, have a full consultation to discuss the results and make a clear and concise plan to move forward.

You are guaranteed a warm reception at the clinic, which is in a nice environment, and we are used to putting people at ease. You also get to see me at your convenience; just book an appointment to see me at a time that suits you. I look forward to seeing you.

Salt, or more specifically the sodium in salt, can have a significant impact on your heart health. Here’s how: Raises Bl...
08/04/2026

Salt, or more specifically the sodium in salt, can have a significant impact on your heart health.

Here’s how:

Raises Blood Pressure: Excess sodium in your diet causes your body to retain water, which increases the volume of blood in your bloodstream. This, in turn, raises your blood pressure. High blood pressure (hypertension) puts extra strain on your heart and arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage.

Increases Risk of Heart Disease: Over time, consistently high blood pressure can damage the walls of your arteries, leading to atherosclerosis (narrowing and hardening of the arteries). This reduces blood flow to the heart and increases the risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular problems.

Imbalances Fluid Levels: Too much salt can disrupt the balance of fluids in your body, making your heart work harder to pump blood. This can lead to fluid retention, causing swelling in your legs, ankles, and even your lungs, which puts additional strain on the heart.

Impaired Kidney Function: The kidneys help regulate blood pressure by managing sodium levels. If you consume too much salt, your kidneys may struggle to keep up, contributing to high blood pressure and putting extra pressure on the heart.

Weakens the Heart Over Time: Chronic high sodium intake can lead to a condition called "left ventricular hypertrophy," where the heart’s left chamber thickens and enlarges, making it less efficient at pumping blood. This condition can eventually lead to heart failure if not managed.

For heart health, it’s recommended to limit your salt intake to no more than 6g per day (about one teaspoon). Cutting back on processed foods, which are often high in sodium, and cooking fresh meals at home can help you manage your salt intake.

Remember, a little goes a long way when it comes to salt – and your heart will thank you for the effort!

If you’re suffering from any symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pains, dizziness or palpitations you may be suf...
02/04/2026

If you’re suffering from any symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pains, dizziness or palpitations you may be suffering from heart problems.

There are lots of different types of chest pain, and most people will have it at some point in their lives. Many of the causes are not serious, but it is important that if you have chest pain, you get it checked out. This is because some pains can come from the heart and if not treated quickly can turn serious.

It might be nothing, but you should never ignore any of these symptoms.

Why not download my free guide to discover the possible underlying causes and treatments for these symptoms. https://www.coastalcardiology.co.uk/guide/

From where I stand (in operating theatres and cardiac clinics), this is a conversation that really matters.Obesity isn’t...
26/03/2026

From where I stand (in operating theatres and cardiac clinics), this is a conversation that really matters.

Obesity isn’t just about weight. It’s one of the biggest risk factors for heart disease, increasing the likelihood of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, blocked arteries, heart attacks, and the need for major surgery.

Many of the procedures I perform could be prevented or delayed with earlier lifestyle support and intervention.

But this isn’t about blame. It’s about awareness and action.

Obesity is complex. It’s influenced by genetics, environment, mental health, access to nutritious food, time pressures, and more. Real change comes from education, support, and small, sustainable steps, not shame.

From a heart health perspective, even modest weight loss can significantly reduce strain on the heart. Regular movement, balanced nutrition, good sleep, and routine health checks can make a real difference over time.

Your heart works tirelessly for you every second of every day. Looking after it doesn’t have to start with a big change, just a small step in the right direction.

As a cardiologist, I talk about heart health every day, but I want to share something more personal. I have - in the pas...
19/02/2026

As a cardiologist, I talk about heart health every day, but I want to share something more personal.

I have - in the past - had to perform CPR at a party I was attending. Not in a hospital. Not with monitors and a full team. Just people, panic, and seconds that mattered.

That moment reinforced something I’ve always known: cardiac arrest doesn’t wait for the “right” setting. It happens in homes, at celebrations, at work, in everyday life. And the difference between life and death often comes down to whether someone nearby knows what to do.

CPR isn’t complicated. You don’t need to be a doctor. You just need the confidence to act.

Early CPR can double, even triple, survival rates. Learning CPR is one of the most powerful, practical skills you can ever have. You may never need it… but if you do, you’ll never regret knowing it.

Please consider taking a CPR course. You could save a life - maybe someone you love.

This Valentine’s Day, let’s talk about the most important love of all -As a cardiologist, I see every day how much your ...
14/02/2026

This Valentine’s Day, let’s talk about the most important love of all -

As a cardiologist, I see every day how much your heart does for you without asking for anything in return. It works through stress, late nights, busy lives, and big emotions - quietly and constantly.

Valentine’s Day is a lovely reminder to show care and appreciation, not just to others, but to yourself too. Small choices matter: moving your body, managing stress, eating well, resting properly, and getting checked when something doesn’t feel right.

Love isn’t just roses and chocolates. Sometimes, it’s choosing habits that protect your heart for the long run. Take a moment today to do something kind for your heart - it’s been showing up for you your whole life.

Oestrogen affects the heart positively, by strengthening the walls of the arteries and other blood vessels, and reduces ...
05/02/2026

Oestrogen affects the heart positively, by strengthening the walls of the arteries and other blood vessels, and reduces the build-up of fatty deposits.

Lower oestrogen levels related to menopause can raise blood cholesterol, increase blood pressure, reduce bone mineral density, impact mood and libido.

Changing hormone levels can also cause palpitations. An early menopause (

Blood pressure is one of the simplest, and most important, indicators of heart health. But do you really know what those...
28/01/2026

Blood pressure is one of the simplest, and most important, indicators of heart health. But do you really know what those numbers mean?

💙 Systolic Pressure (Top Number): This measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats. Higher numbers can indicate your heart is working harder than it should.
💙 Diastolic Pressure (Bottom Number): This measures the pressure in your arteries between beats, when your heart is resting. Consistently high numbers here may signal your arteries are under strain even at rest.
💙 What’s Considered “Normal”?
• Normal: around 120/80 mmHg
• Elevated: 120–129 /

Heart health is full of fascinating facts — and some might surprise you! Here are a few to keep in mind: - Your heart be...
21/01/2026

Heart health is full of fascinating facts — and some might surprise you!

Here are a few to keep in mind:
- Your heart beats around 100,000 times a day — that’s over 35 million times a year!
- The heart can continue beating even when it’s disconnected from the body, as long as it has oxygen.
- Regular walking for just 30 minutes a day can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease.
- High blood pressure is often called the “silent killer” because it can cause serious damage without obvious symptoms.

Taking small steps toward a heart-healthy lifestyle can make a huge difference over time.

You’ve probably heard of cholesterol and know it has something to do with heart health, but what is it really?Cholestero...
14/01/2026

You’ve probably heard of cholesterol and know it has something to do with heart health, but what is it really?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that your body genuinely needs. It helps build cells, produce hormones, and make vitamin D. The issue isn’t cholesterol itself - it’s how it’s carried around your bloodstream.

Your cholesterol travels in particles called lipoproteins:

• LDL (low-density lipoprotein)
These particles tend to deposit cholesterol in the artery wall. Over time, this can contribute to plaque build-up, narrowing the arteries and increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.

• HDL (high-density lipoprotein)
These particles help transport cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver for processing and removal.

Neither LDL nor HDL is “good” or “bad” in isolation, it’s the balance between them, and the overall context of your metabolism, that matters.

The good news? Diet, exercise, sleep, and lifestyle choices can meaningfully shift these levels in the right direction.

Understanding your cholesterol profile is one of the simplest and most powerful steps you can take to protect your heart for the long term.

At Coastal Cardiology, your heart health is our priority. We offer comprehensive cardiac care services, including heart ...
07/01/2026

At Coastal Cardiology, your heart health is our priority.

We offer comprehensive cardiac care services, including heart health check-ups, diagnostic tests, and personalised treatment plans. Whether you need routine monitoring or specialised care, we're here to help you every step of the way.

Visit www.coastalcadiology.co.uk to find out more about our services and book your appointment today.

Your heart deserves the best care.

Wishing you all a wonderful New year and may 2026 be your best year yet.
31/12/2025

Wishing you all a wonderful New year and may 2026 be your best year yet.

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Nuffield Hospital Bournemouth 67 Lansdowne Road Bournemouth
Bournemouth
BH11RW

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