A heart health specialist is a doctor who specialises in diagnosing, treating, and preventing disorders of the heart, arteries, and veins. They study, diagnose, and treat ailments including blockages, cardiac injuries, and illnesses, as well as keep a watch on things like high cholesterol, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Usually, a patient’s primary doctor will recommend them to a heart health specialist when they detect a possible heart problem. The specialist will review the patient’s medical history, family history, examine them, and discuss any pertinent symptoms. In order to make a more accurate diagnosis, they may also order out a number of procedures, including EKGs, x-rays, stress tests, biopsies, and blood tests.
Heart disease is the 2nd leading cause of death in Canada. Knowing when to see a heart health specialist might be difficult for those who do not have established cardiac problems. Some of the reasons why you should consult with a cardiac expert include:
- You are experiencing chest pain
- You are experiencing shortness of breath, palpitations, or dizziness
- You have a family history of hypercholesterolemia
- You have a family history of cardiovascular disease
- You are suffering from peripheral arterial disease
- You are diabetic
- You have a smoking history
- You suffer from high blood pressure
- You suffer from chronic renal disease
Patients usually have a list of questions they want to speak to a doctor online, but they are unsure of where to begin, whether they are meeting with a cardiologist about the findings of a screening test or being referred by their primary care physician. Talking to a heart health specialist can help you better understand your diagnosis and, if necessary, your treatment choices. Here are some questions you might want to ask your specialist during your online appointment:
Question – What signs could point to the deterioration of my particular condition?
This is an important question to ask because heart illness is such a broad phrase. For example, someone with a leaking valve would have different symptoms signalling that the condition is deteriorating than someone with a cardiac rhythm problem. You may believe you understand the symptoms of some disorders, but many patients do not experience the same kind of symptoms. It is critical that your doctor goes through all of the warning indicators that are unique to you.
Question – Is my chance of developing heart disease high?
Heart disease is more likely to affect certain people than others. The likelihood that you may acquire cardiovascular disease is increased by several risk factors. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking are the main risk factors for heart disease. At least one of such risk factors is present in over half of all patients.
Question – How can I maintain my heart in good shape?
Everyday behaviours such as what you eat and how regularly you should exercise are critical to keeping your cardiovascular system in good condition. So, discuss your lifestyle with your doctor and see what you could be doing differently.
Question – What medications may I take?
Your specialist may wish to start you on specific medications, and it is crucial to understand what you can and cannot take along with your current medications, so that other medications do not interact negatively with your current ones.
Question – What non-invasive tests could be performed to determine the cause of my symptoms?
You would be recommended to get both a simple blood test and an electrocardiogram (ECG) if your symptoms suggested a heart attack. If your symptoms point to angina, an ECG, maybe a 2D-Echo, and a treadmill stress test would be ordered.
Question – How frequently should I be screened?
It is important to ask this, as people who are at a higher risk of developing heart disease due to a personal history of the condition, a family history of cardiovascular disease, or other risk factors should be screened more frequently than people who are at a lower risk.
Need to see a heart health specialist online? Book an appointment through Meira Care online, to get a referral to see a Heart Health Specialist. Chat with a virtual doctor about your medical history and current symptoms. Get your assessment, diagnosis, and specialist referral all from the comfort of your home.
Disclaimer: The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
