Categories: Cardiologist

5 Signs You May Need To See a Cardiologist

A cardiologist is a doctor who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of issues that affect the heart. Your heart is one of the hardest working muscles in your body, with over 100,000 beats daily. Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death today, comprising about one out of every three deaths in the United States.

Heart disease usually goes undetected until it leads to a severe health episode like a stroke or heart attack. A cardiologist can help to prevent heart issues and lower the risk of recurring cardiovascular complications.

5 Reasons to make an appointment with a cardiologist

The following are some of the signs that indicate your might be developing heart problems:

1. You notice symptoms of heart disease

Some of the more common symptoms of heart disease include fatigue, dizziness, syncopal attacks, shortness of breath, and chest discomfort. Schedule an appointment with a cardiologist if you notice any of these symptoms. They can be signs of an impending heart attack. Leaving them unaddressed can have significant consequences.

Chest pain, in particular, is one of the most common signs of a heart attack brewing. While many complaints about chest pain are not linked to heart attacks, chest pain that worsens after exercise might be a sign that the heart is not receiving enough blood. A cardiologist can examine your symptoms and request appropriate tests to determine if you have heart disease.

2. You have risk factors for heart disease

Some people have specific risk factors that increase their risk of developing cardiovascular disease. For example, high blood pressure increases your risk of heart disease. It can also cause atherosclerosis, a gradual narrowing of the coronary arteries. Atherosclerosis is typically caused by plaque or fat block restricting blood flow to the heart.

Other health issues that increase your risk of developing heart disease include:

Diabetes: Diabetics are two times more likely to develop heart disease than non-diabetics (Centers for Disease Control)
High cholesterol: High cholesterol can cause plaque build-up in a person’s arteries, making them more vulnerable to heart disease
Smoking: Smoking cigarettes is a significant risk factor for heart disease, yet it is completely preventable. Smoking raises blood pressure and constricts arteries, reducing blood flood to the heart
Chronic kidney disease: A person’s kidneys not working correctly increases their risk of heart disease
Obesity: People who are obese have a higher chance of developing heart disease

3. Your family history

Some types of heart disease run in families. You’re more likely to develop heart disease if a family member has had it. A visit to a cardiologist can help to assess your risk.

4. Your exercise history

People who work out often are less likely to develop heart disease since exercising strengthens the heart. Exercise also helps to reduce other risk factors that make you more prone to heart disease, like high blood pressure and diabetes.