Coastal Cardiology

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

We often think of heart disease as something that happens later in life, but the reality is shifting. New data shows tha...
27/05/2026

We often think of heart disease as something that happens later in life, but the reality is shifting.

New data shows that cardiovascular deaths among working-age adults have risen by 18% since 2019 - a worrying trend that highlights how our lifestyles, stress levels, and health habits are impacting heart health much earlier than we might expect.

So, what’s behind this rise?
🩺 Sedentary lifestyles and long hours at desks.
🍔 Diets high in processed food.
😮‍💨 Chronic stress and poor sleep.
🚭 Smoking and rising obesity rates.

The good news? Most heart disease is preventable. And the earlier we act, the more powerful those choices become.

Start by:
- Moving your body every day (even a brisk 20-minute walk counts!)
- Prioritising sleep and stress management.
- Getting regular blood pressure, cholesterol, and heart checks - especially if you’re over 40.

Heart health isn’t just something to think about “later.” The choices you make today can protect your future.

May is National Walking Month so let’s talk heart health! As a cardiologist, I can't stress this enough: walking is one ...
20/05/2026

May is National Walking Month so let’s talk heart health!

As a cardiologist, I can't stress this enough: walking is one of the simplest and most effective ways to care for your heart.

Just 30 minutes a day can:
✔️ Lower blood pressure
✔️ Improve circulation
✔️ Reduce stress
✔️ Support healthy cholesterol levels
✔️ Help manage weight You don’t need a gym membership or fancy equipment, just a pair of shoes and a little commitment.

Whether it’s a stroll at lunch, walking meetings, or evening walks with family, every step counts. Your heart will thank you!

The proverb "prevention is better than cure", is often very true when it comes to dealing with cardiology issues. The ba...
12/05/2026

The proverb "prevention is better than cure", is often very true when it comes to dealing with cardiology issues.

The basics of tests can often uncover very minor issues, that if managed then and there, can prevent any further damage being caused. Of course that's not to say that I advise having tests unnecessarily, but if you have a history of heart disease in your family or have any niggling symptoms, it is better to get them checked sooner rather than later.

Did you know we offer a private members area of our website? This exclusive space is offered on an annual subscription b...
06/05/2026

Did you know we offer a private members area of our website?

This exclusive space is offered on an annual subscription basis and gives members access to a backlog of articles and blog posts dating back to 2018, which is added to, and updated, on a weekly basis.

If you are someone with an interest in the medical world, particularly anything heart related, or perhaps you want to optimise your life to live with good health for as long as you are able, this could be for you.

To see an example of the content included, visit https://www.coastalcardiology.co.uk/join-the-coastal-cardiology-private-members-area/.

‘Knowledge is power’ may sound cliché, but by reading my weekly articles and watching my videos, so many members have been successful in making positive changes - it is inspirational to hear their stories and feedback.

I recently saw a patient who, after some tests, discovered she had hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a potentially serious co...
29/04/2026

I recently saw a patient who, after some tests, discovered she had hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a potentially serious condition which in some cases can be associated with sudden cardiac death.

Like most people, she went home and immediately Googled 'hypertrophic cardiomyopathy'. Google is a fortress of information, but giving good advice about inherited heart conditions is not often something it does well. All it did was make her more scared, reading about cases such as footballers, who have dropped dead of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy on the football pitch.

Fortunately, she also came across my own website and booked in to see me privately. We had an hour-long consultation together, thoroughly explaining her condition, and debunking many of the things she had read online. Based on a complex algorithm that cardiologists use to measure risk, I was able to give her personalised advice and reassure her that her risk was very small.

There is so much misconception and bad advice out there, so be sure you get yours from a reputable source. Whilst the internet is a wonderful thing, Dr Google cannot replace seeing an expert.

Did you know that April is Stress Awareness Month? As a cardiologist, I can't emphasise enough how much stress can impa...
22/04/2026

Did you know that April is Stress Awareness Month?

As a cardiologist, I can't emphasise enough how much stress can impact your heart health. Chronic stress has been linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, and other cardiovascular issues.

Taking time to prioritise your mental well-being is just as important as taking care of your physical health. This month, let’s focus on managing stress in healthy ways:
- Practice mindfulness or meditation
- Get regular physical activity
- Maintain a balanced diet
- Prioritise quality sleep.

Your heart deserves the best care - let’s work together to manage stress and keep our hearts healthy!

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.

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Nuffield Hospital Bournemouth 67 Lansdowne Road Bournemouth
Bournemouth
BH11RW

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