A cardiologist is a medical doctor that specifically treats matters of the cardiovascular system.
This means it can involve anything related to the heart as well as the veins and arteries.
When a person goes to medical school, he or she can specialize in many different areas.
So if a student wants to study specific areas of the heart, this means they are required to complete a number of years of schooling such as four years of undergraduate study, and medical school.
During medical school, the emphasis is on Internal Medicine as it relates to the cardiovascular system.
In addition, the student should pass an exam that allows them to be certified.
As a result, he or she is qualified to treat patients that are having heart trouble or other related issues.
This can also include children with heart problems.
Explore a few commons signs that are red flags that you need to seek the help of a cardiologist.
Chest pain If you're having chest pain that stops you in your tracks, it's time to see a doctor.
While pain in your chest doesn't necessarily mean your having a heart attack, it is still some cause for alarm.
That's because pain in the chest could mean the blood flow is restricted because your arteries are too narrow for the blood to pass freely.
On the other hand, bad indigestion or heart burn can make people experience harsh pain.
If the symptoms persist, you may want to see a cardiologist for further testing to ensure it's not something more serious.
Shortness of breath The thought of not being able to breath is frightening.
Worse, you could take deep breaths, but still not feel like you're getting enough air.
For some, the issue is not heart related.
In fact, it could be due to asthma.
Also, if you're exercising vigorously, you may feel like you need to slow down so you can catch your breathe, which is common.
However, if you are having issues that are not quickly resolved, then you need to consider other causes and see a cardiologist.
Sometimes, shortness of breath could be a sign of heart failure.
While this doesn't mean your heart has stopped working, it does mean that it's not working correctly.
Oftentimes, this malfunction is due to fluid build up in the body since your heart is not pumping, or moving the way it should.
This can make it difficult to do things like run, or jog, or simply walk upstairs.
You've already had a heart attack For patients that have already suffered through the terrifying ordeal of a heart attack, it's good to see your cardiologist for your follow-up appointments or necessary procedures.
There are ways to prevent heart attacks and your doctor can help you get on the right track and stay that way.
Plus, if for some reason you are at risk for other problems, such as a stroke, your doctor can keep a close watch on your progress to make sure you do end up in a life-threatening situation again.