Treatment FAQ

a doctor who specialises in the treatment of heart disease

by Makayla McLaughlin V Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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A cardiologist is a physician who's an expert in the care of your heart and blood vessels. They can treat or help you prevent a number of cardiovascular problems. They can also specialize in specific areas, such as abnormal heart rhythms
abnormal heart rhythms
An arrhythmia is an irregular heartbeat. If you have an arrhythmia, your heart may beat faster or slower than others without arrhythmia. There are several different conditions might cause your heart to beat abnormally, and treatment depends on the cause.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org › diseases › 16749-arrhythmia
, heart failure or heart problems you've had since birth.
Oct 22, 2021

What will the doctor do to diagnose heart disease?

Various tests are used to diagnose heart disease. Your doctor will start by taking your personal and family medical history, recording current and past symptoms, and doing laboratory tests and an electrocardiogram. Based on the results of the assessment and tests, your doctor may order further tests.

When to call a doctor about heart disease symptoms?

If they show any of these signs, get in touch with the doctor’s office:

  • Feeling of fullness in the stomach with a loss of appetite or nausea
  • Extreme fatigue or less able to complete daily activities
  • Respiratory infection or cough that gets worse
  • Fast heart rate (above 100 beats per minute)
  • New, irregular heartbeat
  • Chest pain or discomfort during activity that goes away with rest

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Does a heart disease have a medical treatment for it?

Treatment for coronary heart disease (CHD) can help manage the symptoms and reduce the risk of further problems. CHD can be managed effectively with a combination of lifestyle changes, medicine and, in some cases, surgery. With the right treatment, the symptoms of CHD can be reduced and the functioning of the heart improved.

What doctor treats the heart?

Types of procedures and surgeries used to treat heart arrhythmias include:

  • Catheter ablation. In this procedure, the doctor threads one or more catheters through the blood vessels to the heart. ...
  • Pacemaker. ...
  • Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD). ...
  • Maze procedure. ...
  • Coronary bypass surgery. ...

Where do cardiologists work?

What is interventional cardiology?

How many years of school do cardiologists need?

What is the best way to become a doctor?

What tests do they order for a cardiac catheterization?

What are the symptoms of heart failure?

See more

About this website

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What Is a Cardiologist? What They Do, When to See One, and What ... - WebMD

Cardiologists are doctors who specialize in treating conditions in the heart and blood vessels. Learn more about the conditions cardiologists treat and when you might need to see one.

What Is a Cardiologist? What They Do and When to See One

A cardiologist is a physician who's an expert in the care of your heart and blood vessels. They can treat or help you prevent a number of cardiovascular problems.

What is the name of the doctor that treats people with heart problems?

General Cardiologist . A cardiologist treats people with a wide range of heart problems that affect the blood vessels including blockages. Cardiologists are usually the first stop when a person has heart-related issues. People who have had heart attacks are also initially referred to cardiologists.

What is the name of the doctor who treats the heart?

Doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions or diseases of the cardiovascular system (the heart and blood vessels) are called heart doctors or cardiologists. Cardiologists are usually the first stop when a person has heart-related issues. If specialized treatment is needed for your heart problem, ...

What is the best doctor for heart problems?

2. Pediatric Cardiologist. Pediatric cardiologists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of a number of heart problems in infants and children. Children who are born with structural differences of the heart and problems with the heart's electrical system also need a pediatric cardiologist for close monitoring and treatment of their condition.

What is the medical term for a cardiologist who repairs heart defects?

5. Cardiac Surgeon. A cardiac surgeon is a type of cardiologist who performs many different types of cardiac procedures, which include heart defect repair. Cardiac surgeons are specially trained in operating and repairing heart and blood vessel damages caused by cardiovascular diseases or disorders.

What is an interventional cardiologist?

An interventional cardiologist usually performs non-invasive procedures. They also treat patients who have heart valve disease, coronary artery disease, and peripheral vascular disease. They also perform the following procedures:

What is a vascular surgeon?

Vascular surgeons are specialists in the vascular system. They specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases of the veins and arteries that are connected to the heart. They perform minimally invasive procedures such as: Laser ablation.

How long does it take to become a cardiac surgeon?

To become a cardiac surgeon, you will need four years of medical school, five years of surgical residency, and an additional 2-3 years of fellowship specializing in cardiothoracic surgery. Moreover, those who want to specialize in heart transplant surgeries or pediatric cardiology may undergo additional training. Cardiac surgeons are certified by the American Board of Medical Specialists before getting certified for cardiothoracic surgery.

What is the Heart Rhythm Disease Program?

The Heart Rhythm Disease Program, which focuses on several areas related to cardiac arrhythmias, including treatment approaches to sudden arrhythmia death and atrial fibrillation, as well as the effectiveness of different types of cardiac devices.

What is preventive cardiology?

The Preventive Cardiology Program, which is designed to increase understanding and education about ways to prevent heart disease and to encourage preventive care , including precision medicine through genomics and bioinformatics and utilizing novel tools for phenotyping.

What is the role of molecular imaging in cardiovascular disease?

Researchers conduct clinical trials and continually study new diagnosis and treatment options for people with cardiovascular disease, such as the use of molecular imaging methods for early detection of arterial atherosclerosis or the role of gene therapy in treating heart disease.

What is the Mayo Clinic program?

Mayo Clinic doctors conduct research in new diagnostic tests and treatments for heart disease. Some ongoing programs include: The Structural Heart Disease Program, which focuses on congenital heart disease, pericardial disease and valvular heart disease, among other cardiovascular conditions.

What is Mayo Clinic?

Mayo Clinic doctors actively research conditions of the heart, arteries and veins (cardiovascular diseases) in laboratory and clinical research programs, such as genetic risk factors for different types of heart disease. Researchers conduct clinical trials and continually study new diagnosis and treatment options for people with cardiovascular disease, such as the use of molecular imaging methods for early detection of arterial atherosclerosis or the role of gene therapy in treating heart disease.

Where is Mayo Clinic located?

Mayo Clinic has one of the largest and most experienced practices in the United States, with campuses in Arizona, Florida and Minnesota. Staff skilled in dozens of specialties work together to ensure quality care and successful recovery.

How to treat heart disease?

You can lower your risk of heart disease by eating a low-fat and low-sodium diet, getting at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days of the week, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol intake. Medications.

What tests are needed to diagnose heart disease?

The tests you'll need to diagnose your heart disease depend on what condition your doctor thinks you might have. Besides blood tests and a chest X-ray, tests to diagnose heart disease can include: Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG). An ECG is a quick and painless test that records the electrical signals in your heart.

How to help a heart attack?

Here are some ways to help cope with heart disease or improve your condition: Cardiac rehabilitation. For people who have cardiovascular disease that's caused a heart attack or has required surgery to correct, cardiac rehabilitation is often recommended as a way to improve treatment and speed recovery.

How much BMI should I have to be to prevent heart disease?

Being overweight increases your risk of heart disease. A body mass index (BMI) of less than 25 and a waist circumference of 35 inches (88.9 centimeters) or less is the goal for preventing and treating heart disease.

How to control blood pressure and cholesterol?

Eat healthy foods. A heart-healthy diet based on fruits, vegetables and whole grains — and low in saturated fat, cholesterol, sodium and added sugar — can help you control your weight, blood pressure and cholesterol. Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight increases your risk of heart disease.

What is the best blood pressure for a person with heart disease?

Optimal blood pressure is less than 120 systolic and 80 diastolic, as measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). Check your cholesterol.

How to reduce risk of heart disease?

Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease, especially atherosclerosis. Quitting is the best way to reduce your risk of heart disease and its complications. Control your blood pressure. Ask your doctor for a blood pressure measurement at least every two years.

What is a cardiology doctor?

Cardiologists are medical doctors. There are many subspecialties of cardiology which include:

What is a cardiac surgeon?

Cardiac surgeons are surgical doctors who operate on the heart, valves and blood vessels.

What is a non-invasive cardiology?

Cardiologists who handle patients with heart failure, prevention of heart disease, valve disorders, and those who read images such as echocardiograms or nuclear studies or CT scans are called non-invasive cardiologists.

Does cardiovascular disease go away?

Cardiovascular disease does not go away, but it can be managed. You can manage the symptoms and decr

What kind of doctor treats CAD?

Other physicians. Nephrologist (kidney specialist), cardiovascular surgeon (heart surgeon), neurologist (brain/nerve specialist) They provide specialty medical care for complications of CAD. When complications arise or when special procedures need to be done.

Who is the doctor for CAD?

In some cases, a cardiologist will be your main point of contact in treating and managing your CAD. Whether you work more closely with a primary care physician (PCP) or a cardiologist depends on many things, including the nature of your condition and the relationship you may already have with either doctor.

What is the procedure called when you have a narrowed heart valve?

In some people, an open-chest surgery, called bypass surgery, may be recommended to bypass a narrowed or blocked vessel and allow blood to reach the heart. A cardiothoracic surgeon is a specialist trained to do this surgery. This type of surgeon may also be called a cardiovascular surgeon or a cardiac surgeon.

What is the primary care physician?

Most primary care physicians are qualified to develop and manage treatment plans for chronic diseases such as CAD. But if you develop complications or have more severe CAD that needs a procedure or surgery as treatment, your primary care physician may refer you to a specialist.

What is a cardiac rehab team?

A cardiac rehabilitation (rehab) program teaches you how to be more active and make lifestyle changes that can lead to a stronger heart and better health. This team often includes a doctor, a nurse specialist, a dietitian, an exercise therapist, and a physical therapist.

What is a registered dietitian?

Registered dietitians are trained in nutrition. They are experienced in helping people make lifestyle changes. They understand that adjustments to your eating habits can be the hardest changes to make. And they can help you take small steps toward the larger goal of a balanced diet.

Can a psychologist help with CAD?

Many people with serious conditions such as CAD have depression. Psychiatrists, psychologists, and clinical social workers can help you deal with the mental challenges that come with any CAD-related complications that you may have. Also, they can help you learn to manage the stress in your life. This can affect the success of your treatment plan.

What is the best doctor for a person with diabetes?

Endocrinologists. These are experts on hormones and metabolism. They can treat conditions like diabetes, thyroid problems, infertility, and calcium and bone disorders. Emergency Medicine Specialists. These doctors make life-or-death decisions for sick and injured people, usually in an emergency room.

What kind of doctor treats inflammatory bowel disease?

Colon and Rectal Surgeons. You would see these doctors for problems with your small intestine, colon, and bottom. They can treat colon cancer, hemorrhoids, and inflammatory bowel disease . Critical Care Medicine Specialists.

What is an internist?

Internists. These primary-care doctors treat both common and complex illnesses, usually only in adults. You’ll likely visit them or your family doctor first for any condition. Internists often have advanced training in a host of subspecialties, like heart disease, cancer, or adolescent or sleep medicine.

What is a DO doctor?

Doctors of osteopathic medicine (DO) are fully licensed medical doctors just like MDs. Their training stresses a “whole body” approach. Osteopaths use the latest medical technology but also the body’s natural ability to heal itself.

What is the job of a family doctor?

Their job is to save lives and to avoid or lower the chances of disability. Family Physicians. They care for the whole family, including children, adults, and the elderly. They do routine checkups and screening tests, give you flu and immunization shots, and manage diabetes and other ongoing medical conditions.

What is the name of the doctor who treats glaucoma?

You call them eyedoctors. They can prescribe glasses or contact lensesand diagnose and treat diseases like glaucoma. Unlike optometrists, they’re medical doctors who can treat every kind of eyecondition as well as operate on the eyes.

What is a gynecologist?

Often called OB/GYNs, these doctors focus on women's health, including pregnancyand childbirth. They do Papsmears, pelvic exams, and pregnancy checkups. OB/GYNs are trained in both areas. But some of them may focus on women's reproductive health (gynecologists), and others specialize in caring for pregnant women (obstetricians).

Which doctor treats lungs?

Thoracic Oncologist - This doctor deals with cancer of the lungs, esophagus and chest. Urologist - Any urinary problems and urinary tract infections are treated by an urologist. Veterinarian - While other doctors are responsible for treating humans, the veterinarians are responsible for the treatment of sick animals.

What is a cardiovascular surgeon?

Cardiovascular Surgeon - This doctor carries out surgical and invasive techniques dealing with cardiovascular diseases.

What is an ENT specialist?

ENT Specialist - This doctor treats problems with the ear, nose and throat. An ENT surgeon would be a specialist who will be performing surgeries on these parts of the anatomy.

What is the name of the doctor that helps you sleep through painful operations and medical diagnoses?

Andrologists - An andrologist is a specialist doctor that helps in diagnosing and treating male reproductive system disorders. Anesthesiologist - This is the doctor that helps you to sleep through painful operations and medical diagnoses.

What are the different types of doctors?

There are different types of doctors according to their specialties. There are doctors for heart problems, ENT problems and for bone and muscle problems to name a few. Having a proper knowledge of these different specialty areas of doctors will be quite useful when you need to make a visit to the doctor for a particular illness. Certain designations for doctors are common. These include general practitioner who is a neighborhood doctor and provides medicines for almost any ailment, and trauma doctors who offer medical aid in emergency rooms. Below is a list of some medical professionals.

What is the name of the doctor that treats hair and nails?

Dermatologist - This is a doctor that treats any ailment related to the skin and its appendages such as hair, nails, etc. Emergency Doctors- When talking about types of doctors, these are doctors who handle trauma and emergency conditions in the Emergency room (ER) and are available at all times. Emergencies treated may vary from poisoning ...

What is the name of the doctor who treats the female reproductive system?

Gastroenterologist - A doctor for illnesses related todigestive system including the common problem of gastritis and acid reflux. Gynecologist - Any problems with the female reproductive system is referred to and treated by a gynecologist .

Where do cardiologists work?

Their expertise is needed for procedures such as cardiac catheterization, balloon angioplasty, and heart surgery. Cardiologists work in both offices and hospitals. When they see a patient, they typically perform a physical and examine blood pressure, weight, heart, lungs, and blood vessels.

What is interventional cardiology?

Interventional cardiology involves the invasive management of heart disease, typically using a catheter. Doctors specializing in interventional cardiology spend an extra year of training following a cardiovascular fellowship.

How many years of school do cardiologists need?

They also see patients that are experiencing heart problems. Cardiology is a complex discipline. Aspiring cardiologists receive an extensive education: four years of medical school, three years of training in internal medicine, and then three or more years in specialized cardiology training. To understand the intricacies ...

What is the best way to become a doctor?

Taking the time to research specialties like cardiology is an important step in becoming a doctor. Choosing a medical field is one of the many decisions you’ll make as you work toward obtaining your coveted white coat. Another choice you’ll have to make is selecting a medical school.

What tests do they order for a cardiac catheterization?

They may also order some tests, such as ECGs, x-rays, blood work, or other specialized tests. They may recommend or perform an echocardiogram, an ambulatory ECG, an exercise test, or a cardiac catheterization.

What are the symptoms of heart failure?

They may be suffering from heart conditions and experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath, heart murmurs, electrocardiogram (ECG) changes, or chest pain. A cardiologist can then examine these symptoms. Cardiologists are also involved in more serious cases of heart failure.

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Diagnosis

  • Your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask about your personal and family medical history. The tests you'll need to diagnose your heart disease depend on what condition your doctor thinks you might have. Besides blood tests and a chest X-ray, tests to diagnose heart disease can include: 1. Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG). An ECG is a quick and...
See more on mayoclinic.org

Treatment

  • The type of treatment you receive depends on the type of heart disease you have. In general, treatment for heart disease usually includes: 1. Lifestyle changes.You can lower your risk of heart disease by eating a low-fat and low-sodium diet, getting at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days of the week, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol intake. 2. Medications.If lifestyl…
See more on mayoclinic.org

Clinical Trials

  • Explore Mayo Clinic studiestesting new treatments, interventions and tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage this condition.
See more on mayoclinic.org

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

  • Heart disease can be improved — or even prevented — by making certain lifestyle changes. The following changes can help anyone who wants to improve heart health: 1. Stop smoking.Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease, especially atherosclerosis. Quitting is the best way to reduce your risk of heart disease and its complications. 2. Control your blood pressure.Ask your …
See more on mayoclinic.org

Coping and Support

  • You may feel frustrated, upset or overwhelmed upon learning that you or your loved one has heart disease. Here are some ways to help cope with heart disease or improve your condition: 1. Cardiac rehabilitation.For people who have cardiovascular disease that's caused a heart attack or has required surgery to correct, cardiac rehabilitation is often recommended as a way to improv…
See more on mayoclinic.org

Preparing For Your Appointment

  • Some types of heart disease will be discovered without an appointment — for example, if a child is born with a serious heart defect, it will be detected soon after birth. In other cases, your heart disease may be diagnosed in an emergency situation, such as a heart attack. If you think you have heart disease or are worried about your heart disease risk because of your family history, see yo…
See more on mayoclinic.org

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