What does a cardiologist do on your first visit?

Your first visit with a cardiologist will involve a physical exam and possibly some bloodwork and non-invasive tests. Non-invasive tests are generally pain-free.

What to expect when visiting a cardiologist for the first time?

What does a cardiology exam consist of?

What does cardiology involve? A cardiologist will review a patient's medical history and carry out a physical examination. They may check the person's weight, heart, lungs, blood pressure, and blood vessels, and carry out some tests.

What happens when you get referred to a cardiologist?

The cardiologist will evaluate your symptoms, review your medical history and may recommend diagnostic tests to appropriately diagnose the cause of your symptoms and help your cardiology care team evaluate the best form of treatment for you.

How does a cardiologist check your heart?

An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart. The ECG reflects what's happening in different areas of the heart and helps identify any problems with the rhythm or rate of your heart. The ECG is painless and takes around 5-10 minutes to perform.

What happens at a first visit to a cardiologist?

How long does a cardiologist test take?

An echocardiogram usually takes 40 to 60 minutes. A transesophageal echo may take up to 90 minutes.

What are the signs of an unhealthy heart?

Will an EKG show heart problems?

An electrocardiogram records the electrical signals in the heart. It's a common and painless test used to quickly detect heart problems and monitor the heart's health.

Is being referred to a cardiologist serious?

Not necessarily. “It's very common,” says Abed Asfour, M.D., director of interventional cardiology at Beaumont Hospital, Trenton. “Most of our patients are referrals.” Generally speaking, heart specialists will start you out with a physical exam, including blood work to measure cholesterol and blood-sugar levels.

What questions will a cardiologist ask?

What should I wear to a cardiologist appointment?

Please wear loose comfortable clothing (i.e. tee shirt) and shoes. Shorts or slacks are appropriate.

Can you eat before a cardiology appointment?

For morning appointments, do not have anything to eat or drink after midnight. For morning appointments, please do not take your diabetic medication. Sips of water are okay. For afternoon appointments, you may have a light breakfast before 7:30 a.m. and you may take your diabetic medication.

What kind of tests does a cardiologist do?

A cardiologist is a healthcare provider who can treat chest pain, high blood pressure and heart failure, as well as problems with your heart valves, blood vessels and other heart and vascular issues. They can order tests like electrocardiograms, echocardiograms and CTs (computed tomography) to find out what's wrong.

How do I prepare for a cardiologist?

Do cardiologists check lungs?

The cardiologist is an expert on the heart, while the pulmonologist is an expert on the lungs. These areas of your body are closely linked, though, and work better together when both your heart and lungs are healthy.

Can doctors tell if your heart is failing?

A test called an echocardiogram is often the best test to diagnose your heart failure. Your doctor can also use this test to find out why you have heart failure, and then monitor your condition going forward every three to six months.

At what age should you see a heart doctor?

By middle age, it's a great practice to begin annual cardiology checkups. But don't let this be your starting point! A study from 2000-2016 has shown that heart attacks are occurring in young patients as early as those in their 20s. Even if you are in your 30s with no symptoms, consider your risk factors.

Why does my doctor want me to see a cardiologist?

If you notice a pattern of heart disease, including high cholesterol and high blood pressure, take action and get checked by a cardiologist.

What are small heart attacks?

In a “mini” heart attack, blood flow to the heart is partially blocked. Symptoms include chest pain and are similar to those of a heart attack, but there is less damage to the heart. The technical term for a “mini” heart attack is a non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI).

Can blood tests detect heart problems?

High-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) tests help determine the risk of heart disease before symptoms are present. Higher hs-CRP levels are associated with a higher risk of heart attack, stroke and cardiovascular disease.

What are 3 heart problems that can be diagnosed with an EKG?

Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) to assess the heart rate and rhythm. This test can often detect heart disease, heart attack, an enlarged heart, or abnormal heart rhythms that may cause heart failure.

What are the first signs of a weak heart?

What does a small heart blockage feel like?

Small vessel disease signs and symptoms include: Chest pain, squeezing or discomfort (angina), which may get worse with activity or emotional stress. Discomfort in the left arm, jaw, neck, back or abdomen along with chest pain. Shortness of breath.

What 5 abnormalities can be found on the echocardiogram?

Does echocardiogram show blockage?

This part of the test measures the speed and direction of blood flow within the heart and vessels. It can help show blocked or leaking valves and check blood pressure in the heart arteries.