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When to See a Cardiologist

While your primary care physician can manage most of your day-to-day health problems, there are times when you should see a cardiologist who is trained and an expert in recognizing signs of heart disease for more serious problems. A cardiologist can run tests and take a more in depth look and help you understand what it is you need to do to keep your heart healthy and strong. There might be times in your life when seeing a cardiologist is your best choice for staying in control of your heart health.

  1. Chest Pain

    • If you are having unexplained chest pain, then you should probably take the time to see a cardiologist. Chest pain or discomfort, especially when it lasts for days at a time can be a warning sign to heart disease, and even a precursor to heart attacks. Chest pain could be caused by excess cholesterol, that builds in your arteries and makes it hard for your heart to pump blood as efficiently as it should. This is a warning sign of a heart attack.While your primary care physician can treat you for early warning signs of heart disease, a cardiologist is necessary to talk to you about the threat and its imminence.

    Arrhythmia

    • Arrhythmia is a condition where the rhythm of the heart is irregular, or too fast or slow. This is usually caused by malfunction in the way that your heart is pumping. Many people experience harmless bouts of arrhythmia throughout their life, but if it becomes a chronic or bothersome condition, then you should be seen by a cardiologist. She can take a look at the way the heart is functioning and discern whether it is a concern or just routine and harmless arrhythmia. Left untreated, you are put at risk for heart attack, fainting, dizziness and loss of breath due to your heart not functioning properly.

    Referral

    • If your primary care physician discovers something that he'd like a cardiologist to look at and refers you to one, it is in your best interest to make an appointment as soon as possible. If your doctor is referring you to a cardiologist, it is because he's concerned about something he's seen or heard and would like a second opinion. Always follow up on your referrals to a cardiologist. You may feel fine, but it's always best to have a deeper look at the situation by an expert. Even if it's nothing, you'll have piece of mind and control over your heart health.

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