A cardiologist, also known as a heart doctor, specializes in treating conditions and diseases of the cardiovascular system. This includes the heart and blood vessels. Once a patient is diagnosed with a heart problem, a cardiologist will help to manage the condition as much as possible.
Since heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, it affects nearly 650,000 Americans. When it comes to your heart, the stakes are high. So how does someone know when is the right time to visit a cardiologist?
Signs You Should See a Cardiologist
- Family doctor recommendation. If you visit your family doctor and signs of heart disease become apparent, you will be recommended to a cardiologist.
- Family history. If you have a family history of heart disease, learn the signs and symptoms so that you can discuss it with your family doctor who will recommend that you see a cardiologist.
- High cholesterol. The higher your cholesterol level is (a level of 200mg/dl or higher), the greater your risk for developing heart disease is.
- Heart pain. If you experience ongoing heart pain, do not put off scheduling a visit with a cardiologist. As they say, the sooner the better.
- High blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure or a high systolic number (the first number in the reading), you should see a cardiologist as soon as possible.
- Unfortunately, diabetes can contribute to heart disease. If you are a diabetic and experience heart problems, do not delay scheduling an appointment with a cardiologist.
- Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease, even if you are no longer a smoker. Smoking lowers the flow of oxygen to the heart and damages the cells lining of the arteries. It also increases blood clotting, blood pressure, and heart rate, all of which contribute to heart disease.
- Gum disease. When the body is inflamed, gum disease can occur. People who develop swollen gums often have heart disease.
- Difficult pregnancy/pre-eclampsia. Pre-eclampsia is characterized by high blood pressure, therefore, is a risk factor for heart disease. Women can sometimes develop heart disease during pregnancy or post-menopause.
- Beginning a new exercise program. It is always wise to check your heart health with a cardiologist before starting a new exercise program, especially if you are over the age of forty. They can recommend an exercise program that would benefit you and your heart.
A cardiologist will treat any symptoms of heart disease and diagnose any possible conditions. But, before you can schedule an appointment with even the best cardiologist in your area, your primary care physician would need to recommend you.
That is why it is important to keep up with all your scheduled doctor visits. Staying on top of your overall health is crucial to managing conditions and diseases that may develop.
Since our bodies change with age, it can affect the flow of blood to our hearts. People who are sixty-five or older are at a higher risk of developing heart disease, but heart disease can affect young people too.
If you start to experience symptoms of heart disease, it is a good idea to schedule a visit with the best cardiologist in the Lafayette, La area as soon as possible so that you don’t regret it later.
Symptoms of Heart Disease
- Dizziness or lightheadedness.
- Nausea.
- Fatigue.
- Angina.
- Cold sweats.
- Neck pain.
- Shortness of breath.
A healthy heart is essential to your overall well-being. If you are diagnosed with heart disease, a cardiologist will formulate a plan specifically for your body type and health history. If you think it is time to add a cardiologist to your annual doctor visits, contact CT Cardio today.
Dr. Corwin A. Thomas is one of the best cardiologists known in the Lafayette, La area. Taking care of your heart is our main priority. We will be waiting to have a heart-to-heart visit with you.
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