A cardiologist can determine if a heart condition is the cause . These symptoms may be a sign of abnormal heart rhythm or coronary artery disease. You have diabetes. There is a strong correlation between cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
When should you see a cardiologist?
If you notice a pattern of heart disease , including high cholesterol and high blood pressure, take action and get checked by a cardiologist. 3. High Blood Pressure. Regular blood pressure checks should occur from age 20 on.
Why would you be referred to a cardiologist?
A cardiologist is a heart doctor. They specialize in treating heart conditions and diseases as well as helping patients manage their heart conditions as much as possible. A cardiologist will treat any symptoms of heart conditions that you have and diagnose any possible conditions.
Why would a cardiologist want to see me?
Multiple risk factors such as high blood pressure or cholesterol levels , being diabetic or smoking are all grounds for a referral to a heart doctor. So are things like being obese or overweight, a lack of physical activity and an unhealthy diet.
What can a cardiologist diagnose?
- atherosclerosis.
- atrial fibrillation.
- arrhythmias.
- congenital heart disease.
- coronary heart disease.
- congestive heart disease.
- high blood cholesterol and triglycerides.
- hypertension.
What are the signs of an unhealthy heart?
- Chest pain, chest tightness, chest pressure and chest discomfort (angina)
- Shortness of breath.
- Pain, numbness, weakness or coldness in your legs or arms if the blood vessels in those parts of your body are narrowed.
- Pain in the neck, jaw, throat, upper abdomen or back.
Do heart palpitations show up on an ECG?
A 12-lead ECG evaluation is appropriate in all patients who complain of palpitations. In the event that the patient is experiencing palpitations at the time of the ECG, the physician may be able to confirm the diagnosis of arrhythmia. Many ECG findings warrant further cardiac investigation.
What does a cardiologist do on the first visit?
Your cardiac nurse or cardiologist will check your vital signs and perform a physical exam . They may also order a number of tests and diagnostic procedures, depending on your symptoms, risk factors and health history.
What happens at first cardiology appointment?
At your first visit to a cardiologist you will get a thorough review of your medical history and assessment of risk factors of coronary artery disease . Blood pressure, heart rate and electrocardiogram will be obtained. You will have a complete cardiac/vascular exam.
What happens at a cardiology appointment?
Patients attending a cardiology (heart) outpatient appointment will commonly require one or more of the following tests: ECG (electrocardiogram) , which records the rhythm and electrical activity of the heart. exercise test (treadmill test)
Does having high blood pressure mean you have heart disease?
High blood pressure can damage your arteries by making them less elastic , which decreases the flow of blood and oxygen to your heart and leads to heart disease. In addition, decreased blood flow to the heart can cause: Chest pain, also called angina.
What do you wear to a cardiologist appointment?
Please wear loose comfortable clothing (i.e. tee shirt) and shoes . Shorts or slacks are appropriate. Ladies: No one piece dresses, long line bras, high heels or bras with underwire please. The exam will take approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
What can a doctor tell by listening to your heart?
Heart: By listening carefully to your heartbeat, a doctor can know right away if you have a heart murmur , which is another word for an unusual wooshing or swishing sound in your heart. Most murmurs are normal, but some can indicate problems such as a fever, anemia, high blood pressure, or an overactive thyroid.
What is the best test to check for heart problems?
An echocardiogram is a common test. It gives a picture of your heart using ultrasound, a type of X-ray. It uses a probe either on your chest or down your oesophagus (throat). It helps your doctor check if there are any problems with your heart’s valves and chambers, and see how strongly your heart pumps blood.
Why would a cardiologist order blood work?
Blood tests help us diagnose, treat, and manage heart disease . Your blood provides many hidden clues about your heart health. For example, high levels of “bad” cholesterol in your blood can be a sign that you’re at increased risk of having a heart attack.
What is a cardiac test?
Exercise cardiac stress test (also called a cardiac stress test or exercise electrocardiogram) which involves walking on a treadmill or pedaling a stationary bike at increasing levels of difficulty, while heart rate and rhythm, blood pressure and the electrical activity of the heart (using electrocardiography) are ...
