Question 1

What are the different types of cardiology tests?

Accepted Answer

Cardiology is the study and treatment of disorders that affect the heart and blood vessels. If you are experiencing heart disease or are at risk of it, your cardiologist will prescribe some tests that will help them diagnose and treat your condition. Some of the common cardiology tests are:

Electrocardiogram (ECG): This test records the electrical activity of the heart. It helps the heart specialist determine if the activity is normal, slow, fast or irregular. It also helps them understand if any part of your heart is under strain and is being overworked.
Ambulatory ECG: This test records the heart’s rhythms while you are engaged in a physical activity, such as running or walking on a treadmill. Small metal electrodes are attached on your chest to record the heart’s rhythm.
Cardiac Stress Test: This shows the heart’s activity when you’re exercising, and while you’re resting. This test will determine the limitations and performance levels of your heart.
Echocardiogram: Provides an ultrasound picture that displays the structure of the heart chamber and its surroundings. This is done to detect inflammation and infections in the heart valves.

Question 2

Why would you be referred to a cardiologist?

Accepted Answer

If you’re living an unhealthy lifestyle or you have a genetic predisposition that puts you at risk of heart attack or stroke, then your primary care doctor will refer you to a cardiologist. This may occur if your physician notices red flags in your physical exam or tests that puts you at risk of heart disease. Indicators such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure are strong risk factors for heart disease.

Question 3

What does a cardiologist do on the first visit?

Accepted Answer

Once you’re referred to a cardiologist or heart specialist by your primary care doctor, they will become a key player in your heart care. This means that they will manage your care for the long term and ensure that you get the right cardiology treatments according to your diagnosis. On your first visit to the cardiologist, it is important that you make them aware of your overall health condition, the results of your tests, medical history, lifestyle, habits and any changes in your health over time.

Here’s a checklist of everything to keep in mind during your first visit to a cardiologist:

Compile your personal health history
Get copies of medical records
Write down your symptoms
Assess if anyone in your family tree has a history of heart disease
Gather your test results, if any, and a list of prescribed medications
Make a list of any queries you may have for the doctor

Question 4

What is a heart attack?

Accepted Answer

Also known as myocardial infarction, a heart attack occurs when blood and oxygen to the heart is blocked in any of the arteries due to the buildup of fatty deposits (containing cholesterol) over time. These deposits form plaques within the heart’s arteries, which eventually leads to the formation of a blood clot. This clot can block the artery, leading to a heart attack. It is important to immediately visit the cardiology department of your nearest hospital if you experience common symptoms, such as:

Chest pain that feels like tightness, pressure, pain or a squeezing sensation
Discomfort or pain that spreads to your shoulder, arm, jaw, teeth, neck, back, or sometimes the upper abdomen
Cold sweat
Heartburn or indigestion
Shortness of breath
Nausea
Lightheadedness or sudden dizziness