Each person will have to see a medical professional at least once during their lifetime. Unfortunately, no doctor is able to diagnose or treat each and every issue. When you experience chest pain, have high pressure, are short of breath or suffer from blood vessel issues, it is most likely that your doctor will refer you directly to a specialist. Cardiologists are specialists who treat, diagnose and prevent diseases of heart and vessels. See Burlingame cardiology to get more info.
It is important to know that when you see a specialist in the field of cardiology, they are highly qualified. Their extensive education includes four-years of medical training and three-years of training in general inner medicine. These doctors will go on to spend another 3 years or longer in specialization training. The American Board of Internal Medicine administers a two-day certification exam. This is required for doctors who have completed at least 10 years of education and training.
Referrals to a cardiologist can be made for various reasons. There are many reasons why your doctor might refer you to a cardiologist. Patients who show signs of heart changes or have heart murmurs may also benefit from a referral. These doctors can treat heart attacks, heart rhythm abnormalities or heart failure. In addition, they are involved in helping those with heart problems return to normal life. They also counsel their patients regarding the dangers and prevention of heart conditions.
A cardiologist’s approach to each patient is different. In the initial consultation, the doctor will examine and discuss your medical background. In some cases, this examination is more extensive than patients may expect. For example, it may check blood pressure as well as heart, lung, and blood vessel health. An accurate diagnosis is made based both on symptoms reported by the patient as well as the results of the physical examination. Additional testing may be necessary to confirm a diagnosis. This could include an ECG (electrocardiogram), x-ray, or blood test. Up until the diagnosis and results are known, the doctor can recommend medications or certain lifestyle changes.
Even at an older age, the idea of seeing a physician can cause anxiety for some. It may even be more scary to some that they are referred to specialists. Your doctor won’t send you to a specialty unless it truly is needed. When it comes to heart problems, you should be very cautious.