Cardiologist
What is a cardiologist?
A cardiologist is a physician who has received extra education and training in caring for the heart and blood vessels. A cardiologist will often use tests such as echocardiograms, electrocardiograms, and CT scans to diagnose medical issues affecting the heart and circulatory system.
Other tests used by a cardiologist include:
- Chest X-ray
- Cardiac catheterization
- Stress test
- Holter monitor
- Cardiac MRI
Conditions that a cardiologist will help treat include:
- High blood pressure
- Chest pain
- Heart failure
- Atherosclerosis
- High cholesterol
- Heart attack
- Sudden cardiac arrest
- Blood clots
- Heart valve problems
- Atrial fibrillation
- Cardiogenic shock
- Endocarditis
- Cardiomyopathy
- Myocarditis
- Congenital conditions
- Stroke
Why is a cardiologist important for healthcare?
Since cardiologists specialize in the heart and the blood vessels, cardiology plays a crucial role in ensuring the body receives adequate blood flow. If the heart is not working as it should, or there are blockages in the blood vessels, potentially fatal complications can occur.
A cardiologist evaluates their patient’s symptoms to help prevent these conditions from occurring and treat any complications. Since heart disease is the number one cause of death worldwide, treating the heart is essential for improving healthcare.