It can be supremely unsettling to know that you need a heart specialist. Coronary issues are, after all, the leading cause of death for both men and women in America. But before you panic and start thinking about the worst-case scenario, it is important to remember that a cardiologist is different from a cardiac surgeon. Experts in a sub-specialty of internal medicine, heart doctors research, diagnose, and treat injuries and diseases as well as their causes. In other words, you might not need an operation just because you need a cardiologist. With that in mind, here are the most common reasons people visit heart doctors.
1. Physician's recommendation. If your primary care provider tells you it's time to see a coronary specialist, you should heed his or her advice and make an appointment as soon as possible. In most cases, the doctor making the recommendation has observed possible signs and symptoms of cardiac issues but does not have the equipment and/or training needed to diagnose and treat them.
2. Heart discomfort or pain. Other than hearing it beat in your ears after an intense workout, you shouldn't notice your heartbeat too often. If you feel discomfort or pain in that area, there's a fairly good chance that something is amiss and should be attended to immediately.
3. High cholesterol. Because it increases your risk of cardiac disease, your doctor will do his or her best to get your total cholesterol count under control. If he or she cannot, the best option is to refer you to a coronary expert.
4. High blood pressure. In addition to increasing your chances of suffering a heart attack, high blood pressure also raises your risk of blood vessel disease.
5. Diabetes. An increasingly common disorder, diabetes may contribute to heart disease. If you have the disorder and experience any of the telltale signs, your general practitioner will almost certainly instruct you to see a cardiologist ASAP.
6. Present or past smoking habits. Smoking cigarettes increases blood pressure, damages the arteries, and reduces the flow of oxygen to the heart. If you are a current or former smoker, it is always a good idea to have your coronary health checked on a regular basis.
7. Family history. If a close relative had issues with the organ, it is important to learn the risk factors and possible symptoms of heart disease. A consultation with a heart doctor could tell you everything you need to know but were afraid to ask your primary care provider.
8. New exercise program. Although exercise is generally heart healthy, people with coronary issues, especially those over the age of 40, should check with a doctor before they begin a new workout routine. Because they are experts in the study of your most industrious organ, cardiologists can tell you which exercises are best for your coronary health.
An experienced cardiologist can help you improve the health of your most important muscle, giving you the ability to life a longer, healthier life.
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