A Matter of the Heart: When to See a Cardiologist
- 6 days ago
- 6 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
An Interview with: Dr Pinakin V Parekh | Founder and Medical Director of Trident Heart Centre
General and Interventional Cardiologist and Medical Director for Trident Heart Centre specialising in Coronary Artery Disease Management, Coronary Angiogram and Angioplasty Procedures, Preventive and General Cardiology, and Women's Heart Health
Hearts of Singapore
In a fast-paced city like Singapore, where long work hours and everyday stress have become the norm, heart health is often overlooked. Until something goes wrong. Yet, cardiovascular disease remains one of the leading causes of death among both men and women. Whether it’s climbing the stairs without losing breath, managing high cholesterol, or simply wanting to live longer for the people you love, caring for your heart should never be an afterthought. A healthy heart is not just about medical numbers; it’s about energy, balance, and the freedom to live life fully
Dr Pinakin V Parekh with patient at Trident Heart Centre
We interviewed the highly experienced Dr Pinakin Parekh of Trident Heart Center, where he emphasises on the importance of heart care and his passion for his patients.
What You Will Learn from This Article
Watch the Interview
Audio version coming soon on Spotify and PodBean
You can also read the full transcript here:
A Patient-Centred Approach from the First Visit
Stepping into Trident Heart Centre, patients immediately sense a calm, welcoming environment, a deliberate design choice.
“My first brief to my team was to create a space which is comfortable, so when you come into the clinic... [it] is calm and relaxing, a quiet, peaceful environment.” says Dr Parekh.
During a consultation, Dr Parekh spends time listening carefully, reviewing medical history, and ensuring that patients fully understand their condition before recommending any tests. He explains each diagnostic step, from ECGs and treadmill tests to CT scans, with clarity and patience. Using visual aids, he helps patients grasp why certain tests are needed and what each result means for their heart health.
Treadmill and ECG testing site
Silent Signs of Your Heart Calling for Help
Heart disease can develop silently, often showing few or no obvious symptoms until it becomes serious. Dr Pinakin emphasises that recognising early warning signs can make all the difference.
Common reasons to see a cardiologist include:
Chest pain or pressure that feels tight, heavy, or radiates to the arm, neck, or jaw
Shortness of breath, especially during light activity or at rest
Palpitations or irregular heartbeats that cause discomfort or dizziness
Persistent fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest
Swelling in the legs or ankles, which may suggest fluid retention
Unexplained fainting or near-fainting spells
Family history of heart disease, particularly if combined with high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol
Even without symptoms, regular check-ups are advised if you have risk factors such as smoking, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, or stress.
Understanding Women’s Heart Health
One of Dr Parekh’s key advocacies is increasing awareness of heart disease in women, an area often misunderstood or overlooked.
“[Women's] symptoms can be very vague... That's why it can be misdiagnosed or overlooked. They can be having a heart problem, but they describe in a noncreative manner and most of us might think it's something else, but actually they're hiding something inside.” he explains.
He also highlights the cardiovascular impact of menopause, a stage many women are unaware increases their heart risk. As people age, cholesterol and blood pressure can become more difficult to control. Dr Parekh encourages women in their 50s and beyond to schedule heart screenings, as the leading cause of death among postmenopausal women remains heart disease, not cancer.
A Calling Inspired by Compassion
For Dr Pinakin Parekh, cardiology is more than a profession; it is a lifelong calling shaped by personal experience and empathy. Coming from a family of doctors, he was introduced to the medical world early on. But it was his father’s heart surgery in his youth that truly inspired him to pursue medicine.
“What struck me in the medical profession is the ability to really make a difference to someone's life...You don’t make anyone richer, but you make them better and healthier.” he recalls.
Dr Pinakin V Parekh, General and Interventional
Cardiologist of Trident Heart Centre
That early exposure not only revealed the profound human connection between doctor and patient, but also instilled in him a deep respect for trust, a cornerstone of his medical practice today. As he advanced in his career, the increasing prevalence of heart disease among family and friends reinforced his decision to specialise in cardiology, where he could make a tangible impact.
Comprehensive Cardiac Care, Tailored to Every Heart
At Trident Heart Centre, Dr Parekh offers a complete range of cardiac diagnostic and interventional services. He likens the heart to a home, with walls, pipes, chambers, valves, and electrical wiring; all essential components that require careful monitoring.
To assess these, the clinic provides the following medical cardiology tests:
Electrocardiograms (ECG) for heart rhythm and electrical function
Wireless patch monitors for extended heart rhythm tracking (EKGs)
Treadmill stress tests to evaluate blood flow and detect narrowing
CT coronary angiograms to visualise arteries and measure calcium buildup
Each test or procedure is chosen based on individual needs, ensuring accuracy without unnecessary interventions. For patients with conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, or kidney issues, Dr Parekh takes extra care in recommending the safest and most effective approach.
“Medicines don’t cure. They are a control.” he says.
The Philosophy Behind Trident Heart Centre
When Dr Parekh established his own cardiology clinic, he wanted a name that reflected both his medical mission and personal values. He chose Trident Heart Centre, symbolising three guiding principles:
Strength in Knowledge
Staying at the forefront of cardiology advancements to provide patients with the most effective and minimally invasive treatments.
Protection Through Skill
Using his expertise in interventional cardiology to open blocked arteries and restore heart function safely.
Balance in Decision-Making
Helping patients understand their options and make informed, confident choices.
“Strength in knowledge. You really need to have knowledge to be able to treat patients very well... So I wanted to be able to provide patients with the necessary balance to make informed decisions [with my guidance].”
His clinic embodies this philosophy: offering evidence-based care through advanced, minimally invasive techniques while maintaining a holistic approach to patient well-being. Whether it’s prevention, general heart health, or complex cardiac interventions, Dr Parekh believes in equipping every patient with clarity and confidence.
FAQs
1. When should I see a cardiologist in Singapore?
You should see a cardiologist if you experience symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, dizziness, or unexplained fatigue. Even if you feel well, it’s wise to schedule a heart check if you have risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease. Early assessment can help detect silent heart issues before they become serious.
2. What happens during a heart check-up?
A typical heart screening may include a physical examination, a discussion of your medical history, and diagnostic tests such as an ECG, echocardiogram, treadmill stress test, or CT coronary angiogram. Your cardiologist will explain each test and its purpose, ensuring you understand your heart health and the next steps. With Dr. Pinakin at Trident Heart Centre, he will ensure that every patient is heard and is guided with utmost care and expertise.
3. What is the difference between a cardiologist and a general practitioner (GP)?
A GP can perform basic health screenings and identify potential heart risks, but a cardiologist specialises in diagnosing, treating, and managing heart conditions. If your GP detects abnormal heart rhythms, high blood pressure, or cholesterol concerns, they may refer you to a cardiologist for further evaluation and specialised care.
4. How can I keep my heart healthy?
A heart-healthy lifestyle includes regular exercise, a balanced diet low in saturated fats, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, and managing stress. Regular medical check-ups are also key, as many heart conditions develop silently without obvious symptoms.
5. How can I make an appointment with a cardiologist in Singapore?
Most cardiology clinics in Singapore offer multiple ways to book an appointment, you can call directly, send a WhatsApp message, or use an online booking form on the clinic’s website. Trident Heart Centre is one of Singapore's excellent cardiology clinics. Their information is listed below. If you’re unsure whether you need a referral, most private cardiologists accept both direct and referral-based consultations.
Connecting with Trident Heart Centre
Trident Heart Centre
#03-10 Gleneagles Medical Centre, 6 Napier Road, Singapore 258499
#15-16 Connexion, 1 Farrer Park Station Road, Singapore 217562
Website: https://tridentheart.sg/
WhatsApp: Landline:
6592 2922
Operating Hours:
Monday - Friday: 8:30am - 5:30pm
Saturday: 8:30pm - 12:30pm
Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays
Disclaimer
This interview is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice. Patients should consult a qualified dermatologist in Singapore for personalised care.
