In order to diagnose cardiac conditions, a cardiologist may check a patient’s blood pressure or weight, and utilise tests such as an ECG (echocardiogram), exercise test, x-rays, or blood tests.

Cardiologists often work as consultants to other doctors. They are not surgeons, and, as such, do not carry out operations (these are handled by cardio-thoracic surgeons, who work closely with the cardiologist).

What conditions does a cardiologist treat?

Cardiologists specialise in diagnosing and treating various types of heart disease and other conditions affecting the heart and its connecting blood vessels. Some of the conditions a cardiologist typically treats include:

Arrhythmias
Congenital heart disease
Angina
Cardiomyopathy
Heart failure
Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
Coronary artery thrombosis
Atherosclerosis
Oedema (build-up of fluid) in or around the heart
Heart murmurs

Which subspecialties are included under cardiology?

The current trend in cardiology is moving towards a team-based approach, with each cardiologist having a subspecialty, rather than one general cardiologist for all aspects of the field. Sub-specialty interests include:

Interventional cardiology
Cardiac imaging
Heart failure, including heart transplants and support devices
Congenital heart disease in adults
Electrophysiology
Electrical device therapy
Stroke medicine
Cardio-oncology

When should you see a cardiologist?

You may be referred to a cardiologist by your GP if they suspect you have a heart condition. You should always consult a doctor if you are experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness. Heart murmurs may also warrant the attention of a cardiologist.
A cardiologist will be involved in your treatment if you suffer a heart attack or heart failure. With any serious heart issue, or treatments such as cardiac catheterisation or heart surgery, the skills and expertise of a cardiologist is required.

José Luis Winter Del Río