how to become a cardiologist

Definition
- Who is a cardiologist?
Purpose
- What does a cardiologist do?
- When should you go to a cardiologist?
- At what age should you start seeing a cardiologist?
Center
- What Does a Cardiologist Do? Center

Who is a cardiologist?

Cardiologist

A cardiologist specializes in finding, preventing, and treating the diseases of the heart and blood vessels (cardiovascular diseases).

A cardiologist is a doctor with special training in diagnosing, treating, and preventing the diseases of the heart and blood vessels. Cardiologists obtain extensive education and training. This includes four years of medical school and three years of training in general internal medicine. After the training in general internal medicine, they spend three or more years in specialized training. Following 10 or more years of education and training, a cardiologist must pass a rigorous two-day exam given by the American Board of Internal Medicine. The exam tests their knowledge, judgment, and the ability to provide superior care.

What does a cardiologist do?

A cardiologist specializes in finding, preventing and treating the diseases of the heart and blood vessels (cardiovascular diseases). The diseases are:

Heart attack
Heart failure
High blood pressure
Arrhythmias (abnormalities of heart rhythm)
Heart valve problems
Infections of the heart

A cardiologist may see their patients in their office or a hospital. They may:

Perform a physical examination
Order tests like blood tests, electrocardiogram (ECG), exercise stress test or imaging studies of the heart
Understand and interpret test results to diagnose a medical condition a patient may have
Prescribe treatment for a patient's health conditions
Advise lifestyle changes, such as modifications in diet, maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress and regular physical activity
Provide counseling to prevent heart diseases
Perform some procedures like cardiac catheterization or implant a pacemaker
Refer you to a heart surgeon or an interventional cardiologist when necessary

Some cardiologists may also teach at universities and do research that may help create new treatments and diagnostic approaches for heart problems.

At what age should you start seeing a cardiologist?

There is no definitive age recommended to start seeing a cardiologist. It is advised to have an annual physical examination from a primary care physician when you get into middle age. They may refer you to a cardiologist if necessary. You may need to see a cardiologist early if you have:

Congenital (inborn) diseases of the heart
Been referred by your primary care physician
Unhealthy lifestyle: Lack of physical activity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, unhealthy diet and stress factors
Chronic health conditions
Symptoms of cardiovascular disease like chest/jaw/shoulder pain, palpitations, excessive sweating, dizziness and uneasiness.

The only tests related to the heart that most people, who are not experiencing symptoms, need are measurement of blood cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels and blood pressure.

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Medically Reviewed on 6/24/2020

References

Medscape Medical Reference