Cardiologists

How a cardiologist works

A cardiologist is a doctor specialized in caring for the heart and blood vessels. Their work goes beyond treating existing diseases, as they also provide guidance on cardiovascular health and monitor risk conditions. This professional is qualified to treat a series of conditions, such as hypertension, arrhythmias, heart failure, and coronary artery diseases, among others.

When making a diagnosis, the cardiologist takes into account the medical history, performs physical examinations, and requests complementary tests. Depending on the diagnosis, they may prescribe medications, suggest lifestyle changes, or recommend more advanced treatments, such as minimally invasive procedures or surgeries.

In addition to treating diseases, the cardiologist plays a fundamental role in prevention. They provide guidance on healthy habits, such as a balanced diet, regular physical activity, stress management, and monitoring risk factors like cholesterol and blood pressure.

When should you see a cardiologist?

It's important to consider a consultation with a cardiologist whenever any sign that might indicate heart problems appears or when there are risk factors. Chest pain, even if mild or intermittent, can be a warning of serious conditions such as angina or heart attack, and should be investigated immediately.

If you're experiencing shortness of breath, especially during physical activities or when lying down, this may indicate heart failure or other heart problems. Shortness of breath occurs when the heart cannot pump blood effectively.

Excessive and unexplained fatigue should also be taken seriously, especially when accompanied by symptoms such as swelling in the legs. Irregular heartbeats or palpitations are also signs of arrhythmias, and it's important to have tests to detect the cause and determine the best treatment.

If you have uncontrolled hypertension, a family history of heart disease, high cholesterol, or diabetes, it's essential to see a cardiologist. Even without symptoms, consultation is highly recommended starting at age 45 for men and 50 for women.

Conditions treated by a cardiologist

The cardiologist specializes in treating various conditions that affect the health of the heart and blood vessels. Among the most common is arterial hypertension, which can lead to heart attack and stroke if not properly controlled. Treatment includes medications and lifestyle changes.

Myocardial infarction (heart attack) occurs when blood flow to the heart is interrupted, damaging the heart muscle. After a heart attack, the cardiologist provides follow-up care to prevent new episodes and complications.

Cardiac arrhythmias are also treated by the cardiologist. These conditions alter the heart's rhythm and can occur due to heart diseases, electrolyte imbalances, or medication effects. The cardiologist diagnoses the type of arrhythmia and prescribes the necessary treatment.

Heart failure occurs when the heart cannot pump enough blood to the body. Treatment may involve medications, lifestyle changes, and in severe cases, ventricular assist devices or even heart transplantation.

Other treated conditions include heart valve diseases, such as aortic stenosis and mitral regurgitation, and coronary artery diseases. Treatment may include medication, surgery, or other interventions.

The diagnostic process for heart diseases

Diagnosis begins with a detailed medical history, where the cardiologist investigates symptoms and medical and family history. They also perform a physical examination to check vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and respiration.

The electrocardiogram (ECG) is the initial test to evaluate the heart's electrical activity and detect problems such as arrhythmias or previous heart attacks. The echocardiogram, which uses sound waves to create detailed images of the heart, is essential for observing the heart's chambers and valves.

The stress test is performed while you engage in physical activities, such as walking or cycling, helping to identify problems in the coronary arteries. The 24-hour Holter monitor records the heart's electrical activity for an entire day, while laboratory tests help check cholesterol, glucose, and other indicators.

When necessary, the cardiologist may recommend imaging tests, such as tomography or magnetic resonance imaging, for a detailed visualization of the heart's arteries and valves.

Treatment options offered by the cardiologist

The treatment of heart diseases varies according to the condition, and the cardiologist may prescribe medications to control blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, regulate heart rhythm, or prevent blood clots. These medications are essential for controlling and preventing complications.

In addition to medications, the cardiologist provides guidance on lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet, regular physical exercise, and stress management techniques. These changes can improve heart function and prevent future problems.

When necessary, the cardiologist may perform minimally invasive procedures, such as angioplasty to clear coronary arteries or electrical cardioversion to restore normal heart rhythm. In severe cases, coronary bypass surgery or heart valve replacement may be recommended. Pacemaker implants are recommended to correct severe arrhythmias.

How to prevent heart diseases?

Prevention of heart diseases begins with a healthy diet. Avoid excess saturated fats, salt, and sugar, and opt for fiber-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Additionally, regular physical activity is essential for maintaining a healthy heart.

Maintaining an appropriate weight, avoiding smoking, and managing stress are fundamental measures to reduce the risks of heart diseases. Controlling blood pressure and cholesterol is also essential and should be regularly monitored through medical examinations.

Finally, regular check-ups, such as blood pressure and cholesterol measurements, are key to detecting heart problems early and starting treatment before the condition worsens.

How to choose the right cardiologist for your case?

When choosing a cardiologist, it's important to verify their training and experience. Make sure they specialize in cardiology and have a good reputation among patients, which can be checked through online reviews, such as those found on AvaliaMed.

The cardiologist's experience, especially if you have a specific condition like arrhythmias or severe hypertension, is crucial. Additionally, personalized treatment should be a priority, with the doctor aligned with your needs and expectations.

Also check the infrastructure of the clinic or hospital, ensuring that the facility has the necessary tests and treatments. Location and convenience of scheduling appointments are also factors to consider when choosing your cardiologist.

Cardiology in different life cycles

Pediatric cardiology

Specialty focused on the diagnosis and treatment of congenital or acquired heart problems in children. Follow-up with a pediatric cardiologist is essential from the first days of life when there is suspicion of congenital heart disease.

Cardiology for pregnant women

During pregnancy, the cardiovascular system undergoes significant changes. Women with a history of heart problems or who develop complications such as gestational hypertension need specialized cardiological monitoring.

Geriatric cardiology

Elderly people have specific needs related to heart health. Natural aging brings changes in heart structure and function, as well as a higher likelihood of comorbidities. The cardiologist specialized in geriatrics carefully evaluates the interaction between medications and prioritizes quality of life.

The importance of continuous follow-up with a cardiologist

Regular visits to the cardiologist are not just for treating existing problems but also for preventing heart diseases. With continuous monitoring, you can detect any changes in the early stages, when treatment is most effective. Monitoring risk factors, such as cholesterol and blood pressure, also helps avoid more serious complications in the future.

Choosing the right cardiologist is essential to ensure effective and personalized treatment. Platforms like AvaliaMed help make informed decisions, allowing access to reviews from other patients. Regular follow-up with a qualified cardiologist not only prevents heart diseases but also ensures that you receive the best possible treatment.

The recommended frequency of consultations varies according to your condition:

• Patients without risk factors: annual or biennial consultations are sufficient
• Patients with controlled risk factors: consultations every 6 months
• Patients with established heart diseases: consultations every 3-4 months
• Patients in post-operative care after heart surgeries: more frequent follow-up, as directed by the doctor

AvaliaMed offers a complete platform to find the most suitable cardiologist for your specific needs, allowing you to compare professional profiles, specialties, reviews from other patients, and ease of scheduling. Take care of your heart with the best available professional – your body will thank you.

Myths and truths about heart diseases

Myth: Heart diseases mainly affect men

Truth: Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in both men and women. After menopause, the risk for women increases significantly.

Myth: Young people don't need to worry about their heart

Truth: Risk factors can accumulate from an early age, and nowadays we see more and more young people with heart problems due to lifestyle.

Myth: If you exercise, you can eat whatever you want

Truth: Exercise is important, but a healthy diet remains fundamental for cardiovascular health.

Myth: Natural supplements can replace heart medications

Truth: Never discontinue medications prescribed by your cardiologist to replace them with supplements without medical guidance.

Myth: Statins cause more problems than benefits

Truth: For high-risk patients, the benefits of statins far outweigh the possible side effects, which are generally mild and reversible.