A cardiologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases and conditions of the heart and blood vessels (the cardiovascular system).
What Does a Cardiologist Do?
Diagnoses and treats:
Heart disease (e.g., coronary artery disease)
Heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias)
High blood pressure (hypertension)
Congestive heart failure
Heart valve problems
Congenital heart defects
Performs or interprets:
Electrocardiograms (ECG or EKG)
Echocardiograms (heart ultrasound)
Stress tests
Cardiac catheterizations
Holter monitoring
Blood tests for cardiac markers
Provides preventive care:
Manages risk factors like high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, and smoking
Guides lifestyle changes to improve heart health
Collaborates with:
Cardiac surgeons, general practitioners, endocrinologists, and other specialists for integrated care
Types of Cardiologists
General Cardiologist
Manages a broad range of heart conditions
Provides long-term follow-up care
Interventional Cardiologist
Specializes in procedures like:
Angioplasty
Stent placement
Cardiac catheterization
Electrophysiologist
Focuses on heart rhythm disorders (e.g., AFib)
Performs ablations and implants pacemakers/ICDs
Pediatric Cardiologist
Treats heart problems in infants, children, and adolescents
Heart Failure Specialist
Manages patients with advanced or chronic heart failure
Preventive Cardiologist
Focuses on heart disease prevention, especially for high-risk individuals
When to See a Cardiologist
You may be referred to or want to see a cardiologist if you have:
Chest pain or pressure
High blood pressure
Shortness of breath
Irregular heartbeat
Dizziness or fainting
Family history of heart disease
High cholesterol
Swelling in legs/ankles
Pre-existing conditions like diabetes
Common Tests a Cardiologist Orders
ECG/EKG (Electrocardiogram)
Echocardiogram
Stress Test (Exercise or Pharmacologic)
Holter Monitor (24-48 hour heart rhythm monitoring