Heart Care for Cancer Patients

To protect your heart after a cancer diagnosis, rely on the cardio-oncology experts at OSF HealthCare Cardiovascular Institute in Peoria and Rockford. Your team will help prevent, monitor and treat heart disease to improve your long-term outcome.

Why should I see a cardio-oncologist?

Cancer therapies can cause heart damage, especially if you’re already at risk of heart disease. So, your provider may refer you to a cardio-oncologist. This heart doctor has special training to care for people with cancer. The professional will help you manage both conditions in partnership with your cancer team and established heart doctor (if you have one).

What to Expect

You’ll meet with one of our cardio-oncologists to receive a complete health evaluation and care plan. Before, during and after radiation or chemotherapy, this professional may:

Identify your risk of heart disease based on your lifestyle and personal and family health history
Assess the risk of heart damage from certain cancer treatments
Watch for signs of heart problems, such as irregular heartbeats or a weakened heart
Recommend lifestyle changes and treatment to improve your cardiovascular health
Help you prevent and manage heart-related side effects
Evaluate cardiac tumors

If you don’t live in the Peoria or Rockford area, ask about the option to schedule video visits with a cardio-oncologist.

Heart Imaging During Cancer Treatment

To help your care team monitor and protect your heart, you may receive imaging tests such as:

Computed tomography angiography (CTA) – Delivers X-rays from different angles to create detailed images
Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – Uses magnets and a computer (not radiation) to create detailed pictures of your heart and arteries
Cardiac positron emission tomography (PET) – Shows areas of low blood flow and injured heart tissue
Echocardiogram – Uses sound waves to create 3D images