A cardiologist specializes in heart disease, the leading cause of death in America. Cardiologists can also work in more specialized areas, such as heart rhythm problems, heart failure, and congenital (from conception) conditions.
A cardiologist is a doctor who specializes in heart and blood vessel diseases. They can both treat and prevent you from developing heart disease.
After four years of medical school, cardiologists spend three and a half years learning general intern medicine as residents. They also have at least three years of additional specialized training.
After ten years of education, a cardiologist can take the Medicine test. Cardiologists continue learning as long as they are practicing, even after receiving board certification. They need to stay up-to-date with the latest techniques in order to provide the best medical care.
Where Do Cardiologists Work?
You might see a cardiologist at the hospital. Other cardiologists may also have their own offices where patients can be seen. They may refer patients to hospitals or other medical facilities for testing or procedures.
What Does The Cardiologist Do?
A cardiologist refers to a healthcare provider who can treat chest problems, high blood pressure, heart failure, high cholesterol, and other conditions related to the heart or vascular system. They can order tests such as an echocardiogram, CT (computed tomography), or electrocardiograms to diagnose what’s wrong. You can get medicine or help with your exercise and dietary habits.
A cardiologist can perform a physical exam on you and discuss your medical history. Because of the possibility of developing a problem in your heart, you must inform your cardiologist.
A basic overview can help your cardiologist provide valuable information about cardiovascular health.
- Weight
- Blood pressure
- Cholesterol levels
- Blood glucose (sugar) levels
Your provider will consider all of this information, along with any results from tests, to determine your risk factors. They will want to see if you smoke, exercise regularly, what you eat, and which medications you are taking.
What You Can Expect At a Visit To A Cardiologist?
A cardiologist will take a complete physical exam. They will pay special attention to your heart. They will check your blood flow and see if you have an irregular rhythm.
Prepare to answer questions about your family’s medical and personal history. Your cardiologist will need to know whether your parents, siblings, or any other family members have suffered from heart problems. This information can help your doctor determine what kind of heart conditions you may have.
Your provider may be able to:
- How long do you have been suffering from these symptoms?
- What does it feel and look like when you experience mild or severe symptoms?
- How did you cope with your symptoms (resting, exerting?
- Are there any things that make you feel better when you are experiencing symptoms?
- Have you ever had a procedure for your heart or another type of surgery?
- Do you have any documentation regarding scans?
What Are Your Current Medications?
An electrocardiogram may be performed if your cardiologist has the necessary equipment. This allows them to assess your heart rhythm and take an immediate reading. They may arrange a separate appointment for tests that take longer or require special scanning equipment.
You may suspect that you have heart disease because of new symptoms or signs you are experiencing. Make an appointment with a Denver heart doctor and top cardiologists to discuss your concerns.
