Your primary care physician is responsible for conducting regular examinations, administering vaccinations, and providing medical care during periods of illness. However, in the event of a heart problem, your primary care physician may lack comprehensive knowledge and expertise. Seeking consultation with a cardiologist who specializes in cardiac disorders may be necessary.
This guide by experts from Friendswood Community Hospital provides more information about cardiologists, including who they are, their roles, the conditions that they manage, their types, and more. Continue reading for more information.
What is a Cardiologist?
Cardiologists are a class of doctors who specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of heart conditions. They possess specialized knowledge of the heart muscles and the arterial and venous systems responsible for blood circulation.
Primary care doctors encounter a wide range of medical conditions in their daily practice, while cardiologists specialize only in heart conditions. Their services are highly recommended for those seeking to mitigate their risk of heart disease effectively or for those who have already been diagnosed with heart conditions.
What is The Role of a Cardiologist?
A cardiologist specializes in treating chest discomfort, hypertension, heart failure, cardiac abnormalities, vascular disorders, and other cardiovascular and vascular conditions. They have the option to request several diagnostic procedures, such as echocardiograms, electrocardiograms, CTs, etc., in order to determine the underlying cause. Armed with their diagnosis, they have the ability to prescribe medication, assist in establishing exercise and dietary practices, or perform cardiac catheterization. Should you need cardiac surgery, a cardiologist has the ability to direct you to a cardiothoracic surgeon.
Some basic information may provide your cardiologist with a vital understanding of your blood vessel and heart health, such as your:
- Blood sugar levels
- Blood pressure.
- Cholesterol levels.
- Weight
Specific Conditions That Can Be Handled By Cardiologists
Cardiologists have the specialization to address a broad spectrum of cardiac and vascular disorders, including:
Angina (chest discomfort).
Aortic disorders such as aneurysm or stenosis (narrowing of the aorta).
Arterial disorders, including subclavian artery disease, peripheral artery disease, coronary artery disease, and renal artery disease.
Atherosclerosis
Atrial fibrillation and other heart rhythm disorders.
Blood clots.
Cardiac arrest.
Cardiogenic shock
Cardiomyopathy
Congenital disorders occuring at birth.
Elevated cholesterol levels.
Endocarditis
Heart valve abnormalities.
Heart anomalies.
Heart failure.
Hypertension HBP.
Pericardial disorders, such as pericarditis.
Types of Cardiologists
- General Cardiologist – Manages overall heart health and treats common heart conditions.
- Interventional Cardiologist – Performs procedures like angioplasty and stent placement.
- 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.
- Cardiothoracic Surgeon – Performs surgeries on the heart, lungs, and chest, like bypass surgery.
- Cardiac Imaging Specialist – Uses imaging techniques like echocardiograms and MRIs to diagnose heart conditions.
- Preventive Cardiologist – Focuses on preventing heart disease through lifestyle and medical interventions.
- Congenital Heart Disease Specialist – Treats adults with congenital heart defects from birth.
- Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialist – Guides patients through recovery and lifestyle changes post-heart surgery or heart attack.
Reaching a Decision to Consult a Cardiologist
Most individuals begin their selection of a cardiologist by consulting a primary care physician. Patients presenting with specific symptoms or those with a familial predisposition to heart disease may undergo diagnostic testing to assess the presence of heart disease. Should these tests indicate the presence of cardiovascular disease, your primary care physician will probably make a referral to a cardiologist. Consultation with a cardiologist is recommended if you have:
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Hypertension
- Familial history of cardiac issues
- Previous smoking history or present smoking status
Alternatively, you may want to seek the services of a cardiologist if you have had a previous cardiac issue, such as a heart condition during childhood or pregnancy. Both of these previous issues may pose an elevated chance for the development of another cardiovascular condition in the future.
Consult Expert Cardiologists Today at Friendswood Community Hospital in Friendswood, TX!
Attending a greater number of patients with cardiac conditions than any other hospital in Friendswood, Texas, Friendswood Community Hospital serves as a cornerstone institution for heart health. The exceptional quality of treatment delivered by our highly proficient cardiologists, acclaimed cardiac nurses, and specifically trained cardiac technicians clearly demonstrates our dedication to excellence. At Friendswood Community Hospital, we place a high priority on providing patient-centered care and diligently work to surpass expectations at every opportunity. Our interdisciplinary team collaborates to use the latest cutting-edge treatment methods, guaranteeing that every patient gets individualized care tailored to their specific requirements. Our approach to cardiac care is comprehensive, including diagnostic evaluations and novel treatments, guided by a commitment to enhancing patient outcomes and characterized by compassion. Selecting Friendswood Community Hospital for your cardiac care requirements not only grants you access to state-of-the-art treatment methods but also entails being part of a community of people dedicated to your health.
