Undoubtedly, maintaining good cardiovascular health is very important. Cardiovascular diseases rank as the leading cause of mortality for both men and women in the United States. Patients of various age groups seek cardiologists’ services for many reasons. However, determining the appropriate timing for working with a cardiologist and identifying cases where another physician is more suitable may be challenging.
This guide by experts from Friendswood Community Hospital focuses on what a cardiologist is, some of the symptoms that signal the need to see a cardiologist, the criteria for selecting a cardiologist, when to see a cardiologist, etc. Continue reading for more information.
Who Is A Cardiologist?
A cardiologist is a medical specialist specializing in diagnosing and treating illnesses and disorders affecting the cardiovascular system, including the blood vessels and heart. Cardiologists have received specialized training to deliver comprehensive medical treatment for individuals with a diverse array of cardiovascular diseases, mainly encompassing common conditions like hypertension and coronary artery disease, as well as more intricate conditions like arrhythmias, heart failure, and congenital heart abnormalities. They use a range of diagnostic tests and procedures, such as electrocardiograms (ECGs), echocardiograms, stress tests, and cardiac catheterization, to assess cardiac function and create individualized treatment strategies for their patients. It is of great importance that cardiologists play a role in maintaining heart health, avoiding cardiovascular disease, and enhancing outcomes for individuals with heart-related disorders through medical care, lifestyle adjustments, and innovative therapies.
Do I Need to See a Cardiologist?
Symptoms that could require a referral to a cardiologist involve symptoms such as:
- Anomalous heart rate, either too rapid or too slow
- Chest pain
- Dizziness or fainting
- Hypertension (HBP)
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling of your legs
The cardiologist will assess your symptoms, examine your medical history, and suggest diagnostic testing to accurately identify the underlying cause of your symptoms and assist your cardiology care team in determining the most suitable treatment approach for you.
Types of Cardiologists
- General Cardiologist – Manages overall heart health and treats common heart conditions.
- Interventional Cardiologist – Performs procedures like angioplasty and stent placement.
- Cardiac Imaging Specialist – Uses imaging techniques like echocardiograms and MRIs to diagnose heart conditions.
- Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialist – Guides patients through recovery and lifestyle changes post-heart surgery or heart attack.
- Cardiothoracic Surgeon – Performs surgeries on the heart, lungs, and chest, like bypass surgery.
- Congenital Heart Disease Specialist – Treats adults with congenital heart defects from birth.
- Electrophysiologist – Specializes in heart rhythm disorders and performs procedures like ablations.
- Heart Failure Specialist – Focuses on managing advanced heart failure and related conditions.
- Pediatric Cardiologist – Treats heart conditions in children, including congenital heart defects.
- Preventive Cardiologist – Focuses on preventing heart disease through lifestyle and medical interventions.
Should your cardiologist determine that surgery is necessary, you may be referred to a specialized cardiovascular surgeon particularly trained in performing procedures on the heart, lungs, and blood vessels. Following your postoperative recovery, you will be sent back to your cardiologist for further monitoring and treatment.
Criteria for Selecting a Cardiologist
The selection of a cardiologist should not be taken casually. When faced with a list of choices, formulate the following questions to refine your selection.
What are the qualifications of the cardiologist?
Importantly, cardiologists must get board certification in cardiology from the American Board of Internal Medicine. Furthermore, some cardiologists affix the abbreviation F.A.C.C. to their name. The acronym FACEC represents Fellow of the American College of Cardiology, which is an optional designation contingent upon achievements, credentials, and contributions to the cardiology discipline.
Where is the cardiologist’s office situated?
If you have an ongoing cardiovascular condition, you often visit the office for medical examinations and diagnostic procedures. An optimal location is crucial if you like to avoid long-distance driving.
Does my insurance cover the services of the cardiologist?
The significance lies in the fact that nobody wants surprise medical bills. Verify with your insurance provider or ask the cardiology office to confirm if your insurance covers their services.
When To See a Cardiologist
If your primary care physician identifies any cardiac or vascular issues requiring further attention, then it is time to see a cardiologist. Also, experiencing specific symptoms like chest discomfort, dizziness, or shortness of breath may necessitate seeing a cardiologist.
Partner with a Cardiologist Today—Visit Friendswood Community Hospital for Expert Care!
Friendswood Community Hospital boasts a consortium of seasoned experts who provide specialized cardiac care to the residents of Friendswood and beyond. Our team of highly skilled cardiologists, nurse practitioners, and front desk personnel is dedicated to prioritizing your health above everything else. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or for any inquiries.