Cardiology in Cyprus

Cardiology is a branch of medicine concerned with disorders of the heart. It is the study, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of such conditions as heart failure, coronary artery disease, congenital heart defects, and much more. Doctors who specialize in this branch of internal medicine are known as a cardiologist.

What Does Cardiology Involve?

Cardiology involves tests, including electrocardiogram to record the electrical activity of the heart, exercise test to see the changes of heart rhythm, echocardiogram that provides an ultrasound picture showing the structure of the heart, and cardiac catheterization to collect data and help relieve a blockage. There are numerous different treatments within cardiology for various different heart disorders, such as valvuloplasties, angioplasties, stenting, congenital heart defect corrections, as well as coronary thrombectomies. Nearly all treatments for heart diseases are major surgery and are performed under general anesthetic. 

How Long Should You Stay in Cyprus?

Your length of stay in Cyprus depends on which procedure you underwent. In general, you need to stay in the hospital for several days and also to stay in the country for an additional fourteen days or until your cardiologist allows you to travel home.

How Long is the Recovery Time?

The recovery period can be different from one person to another, depending on your overall health and any complications. You should expect to progressively regain your energy and go back to your normal activity level in about four to eight weeks after treatment, particularly following surgical treatments. 

What Aftercare Should You Consider?

You may need to attend regular follow-up appointments, either with your cardiologist in Cyprus or in your home country. You must make some lifestyle adjustments after you recover, including eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, stop smoking, and limit your alcohol intake, to prevent future heart disease or complications. Your cardiologist may recommend you to get a cardiac rehabilitation, which will improve your health after treatment and help you recover after surgery.

What is the Success Rate for Cardiology?

Generally, the success rate depends on the specific procedure and your specific condition. Cardiology has helped millions of people around the world and if performed by experts, the risk of serious complications is very low. However, just like any other treatment, there are some risks to be aware of, such as bleeding, stroke, heart rhythm problems, blood clots, infection, valve dysfunction, and death.

Are there Alternatives to Cardiology?

Those who suffer from heart disorders do not have any other alternatives besides going to a cardiologist. However, if you do not want to undergo surgery or take any medication, you need to talk to your surgeon for the best alternative for your specific case.

What Should You Expect Before and After the Procedure?

Disorders of the heart can be dangerous, life-threatening, cause painful symptoms, and interfere with your ability to perform daily activities. After you have been treated by a cardiologist, you may be cured of your disease and your symptoms are relieved. 

Cardiology in and around Cyprus

Cyprus is an island country in the Mediterranean Sea. The country is famous for its mineral wealth, splendid wines, dazzling beaches, and compelling culture. In addition, Cyprus is filled with classical ruins and century-old monasteries, and as the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, it is also steeped in mythology. Due to its huge array of modern private medical centers equipped with excellent service, cutting-edge technology, and skilled doctors, Cyprus is also a thriving medical tourism destination. Foreign patients from all around the globe come to this country for a vast range of medical treatments, particularly bariatric surgery, cardiology, cosmetic and plastic surgery, and fertility treatments. Its spa and well-being resorts are also welcoming an increasing number of international medical tourists.

Popular Parts of Cyprus

The majority of tourists start their trip to Cyprus in Larnaca, it is the oldest city in Cyprus. It has a vast array of historical monuments, including Ayios Lazaros (the Church of Saint Lazarus), Stavrovouni Monastery, and Larnaca Medieval Castle. Besides its ancient buildings, Mackenzie Beach and Larnaca Marina are also popular among tourists. Not too far from Larnaca is Paphos, a charming city with exquisite natural beauty and all sorts of ancient ruins. The most popular attractions in this city include the Tombs of the Kings, the Old Town, Early Christian Basilica-St Paul’s Pillar, and Paphos UNESCO Archaeological Park. Nicosia, Cyprus’ capital, is also a popular destination.

Weather and Climate in Cyprus

Cyprus experiences a Mediterranean climate with four seasons and over 300 days of sunshine a year. The summer is long, warm, and dry, lasting from mid-May to mid-October. The winter starts in December and ends in February, bringing mild temperatures and more rain showers. Autumn and spring are short, but there is good weather.

Getting around in Cyprus

The main international gateway to Cyprus is Larnaca International airport. It serves international flights to many cities around Europe and the Middle East, including Kyiv, Abu Dhabi, London, and Moscow. In the south, the intercity bus system is reliable and great, but in the north, the bus services are often unreliable and do not seem to follow a timetable. Taxis are a safe and relatively inexpensive option. In the south, there are three types of taxi services: urban, trans-urban or interurban (shared and can be booked), and rural. In the north, taxis are only available in the main towns. Inside towns, buses are the best way to get around for those looking for a more affordable option. Taxis are more expensive, but they do offer more flexibility.

Tourist Visas in Cyprus

Nationals of EU countries, the United States, Australia, Canada, Britain, Iceland, Japan, and several other countries do not need a visa to visit and stay in Cyprus for up to 90 days. Other countries not listed in the visa-free agreement need to apply for a visa before entering Cyprus. It is best to consult the Cypriot Ministry of Foreign Affairs or contact the embassy to learn more about visa requirements. 

Additional Information

1. Local Currency: The euro (€) has been the official currency of Cyprus since 1 January 2008. The exchange rate from €1 is approximately US$1.17.​​​​​​
2. Money & Payments: It is easy to find reliable ATMs in large towns and tourist areas. Major credit cards, such as Visa and MasterCard, are widely accepted in larger restaurants, shops, and hotels. However, if you plan to go to smaller towns or villages, it is best to ensure you have cash. Tipping is expected most of the time. Tip at least 10% of the bill, and at least 5% or round up to the nearest euro for taxi drivers.
3. Local Language: Around 80% of Cypriots speak Greek as their first language, while Turkish is spoken by 10% of the population. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. 
4. Local Culture and Religion: The main religion of Cyprus is Greek Orthodox, but Islam is the most prominent religion in the north.
5. Public holidays: Some of the most celebrated holidays in Cyprus include Ohi Day, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day, Epiphany, Clean Monday, Cyprus National Day, and Independence Day.