If you have been experiencing unusual symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath, scheduling an appointment with a cardiologist is one way to find the cause of your symptoms. These medical professionals specialize in the workings of the heart and blood vessels, and they utilize advanced diagnostic tools to pinpoint specific issues. Cardiologists use diagnostic tools to detect concerns before they worsen. Here is more information about how cardiologists diagnose heart disease:
Understanding Heart Disease
Heart disease is a broad term that describes several different conditions affecting the cardiovascular system. When a patient visits a cardiologist, the provider evaluates the heart’s function to determine the best course of action. These doctors are experts in diagnosing issues like heart failure or valve problems, and they also treat these conditions. Common conditions include the following:
- Coronary artery disease
- Arrhythmia
- Congenital heart defects
- Heart valve disease
Symptoms may present as chest tightness, fluttering in the chest, or fatigue. During the initial consultation, the provider will review your medical history and perform a physical exam. Treatment may involve lifestyle changes, and medications help depending on the diagnosis.
Visualizing Heart Structures
Cardiologists use advanced imaging to visualize the physical parts of the heart, and these diagnostics help the provider to see any structural issues. An echocardiogram is a common ultrasound that uses sound waves to create moving pictures of the heart. The provider places a device called a transducer on the chest, and this device sends sound waves that bounce off the heart structures. These images allow a doctor to see how well the heart valves and chambers are working.
Another visualization procedure is cardiac catheterization, which involves a thin tube being inserted into a blood vessel and guided to the heart. It allows the provider to see blockages in the arteries, and it measures the pressure inside the heart chambers. These visual tests provide a clear look at the internal anatomy without major surgery.
Monitoring Cardiac Activity
Monitoring the heart’s rhythm and electrical signals helps doctors find irregularities. An electrocardiogram, or EKG, records the electrical activity of the heart through sensors attached to the skin. If a standard EKG does not find anything unusual, a doctor might use a Holter monitor for long-term tracking. Stress testing is another option for monitoring; the patient walks on a treadmill while their heart is monitored. These tests look for several issues:
- Irregular heartbeats
- Signs of poor blood flow
- Abnormalities during physical exertion
These diagnostic tools may be used when a patient reports fainting or palpitations. The results show how the heart responds to different levels of activity, and this data helps the provider understand if the heart rhythm is stable.
Managing a Diagnosis
After tests are complete, the next step is discussing the results with your medical provider. If you are diagnosed with heart disease, you can work together to create a plan that addresses your specific needs. This may include new medications; a schedule for regular follow-up visits will be arranged. Your provider can explain your diagnosis and discuss your options.
Find a Cardiologist Today
Heart disease is a condition that is common, and it can affect your daily life. A cardiologist specializes in finding heart issues early to provide the appropriate medical care. To learn more about heart disease, consult a cardiologist today.
