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A cardiologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases of the heart and blood vessels (e.g., arteries, capillaries, veins, etc). A cardiologist manages conditions such as heart attacks, heart failure, and high blood pressure with medications, lifestyle changes, and various procedures.   

There are many types of doctors who help keep people’s hearts healthy. A cardiac surgeon, for example, performs surgeries on the heart, including heart bypass surgeries, valve repairs or replacements, and heart transplants. A cardiologist focuses on treating heart problems through non-surgical methods, such as medications, and surgical procedures, such as angioplasty. 

   A cardiologist treats many heart-related conditions, including:  

• Coronary artery disease 

• Heart attacks 

• Heart failure 

• Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) 

• Hypertension (high blood pressure) 

• High cholesterol 

• Congenital heart defects (heart problems present at birth) 

• Cardiomyopathy (diseases of the heart muscle) 

• Pericarditis (inflammation of the lining around the heart) 

• Endocarditis (heart valve diseases) 

You should consider getting a referral to a cardiologist if you experience the following: 

• Your primary care doctor recommends a heart evaluation 

• Chest pain or discomfort 

• Shortness of breath 

• Palpitations (irregular or rapid heartbeats) 

• High blood pressure 

• High cholesterol levels 

• A family history of heart disease 

• Type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes both increase the risk of heart problems 

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)
Angina
Atherosclerosis
Arrhythmias
Atrial Fibrillation
Cardiomyopathy
Congenital Heart Disease (CHD)
Coronary Heart Disease
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
Endocarditis
Heart Attack
Heart Failure
Hypertensive Heart Disease
Mitral Stenosis
Pericarditis
Peripheral Artery Disease
Cor Pulmonale
Stroke

 Several tests can help diagnose heart disease, including: 

• Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): Measures the electrical activity of the heart 

• Echocardiogram: Uses ultrasound to create images of the heart 

• Stress test: Assesses how the heart works during physical exertion 

• Cardiac catheterization: Involves threading a catheter to the heart to check for blockages 

• Blood tests: Measure levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and other markers 

• Holter monitor: Records continuous ECG over 24 to 48 hours (about 1-2 days) 

• Cardiac MRI or CT scan: Provides detailed images of the heart and blood vessels 

Early signs of heart disease can include:  

• Chest pain or discomfort (angina) 

• Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity 

• Fatigue or weakness 

• Dizziness or lightheadedness 

• Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet (edema) 

• Irregular heartbeat or palpitations 

• Nausea or sweating, especially during a heart attack 

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve health outcomes and prevent serious complications.