As heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States, heart health remains an important topic for millions of Americans.
But for people who don’t have a heart disease diagnosis, it can be hard to know when you should begin seeing a cardiologist over your primary care provider (PCP).
UI Heart and Vascular Center cardiologist Promporn Suksaranjit, MD, MS, offers more insight into what a cardiologist is, what services they provide, and when you should see one.
What is a cardiologist?
Your cardiologist will evaluate your current health and understand your risk for future heart disease, stroke, and other concerns. Knowing your risk will help you make lifestyle changes to improve your heart health.
When to see a cardiologist?
Your PCP may refer you to a cardiologist if you have heart disease, want to manage the risks of heart disease, or have warning signs of a heart problem. Some warning signs include dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, heart rate changes, and more.
Do I need a referral to see a cardiologist?
You do not need a referral to make an appointment with a UI Heart and Vascular Center cardiologist, but many patients are referred from their PCP. Some insurance plans may require a referral, so you should check before scheduling an appointment.
What kinds of specialized care do cardiologists provide?
Many cardiologists focus their expertise on specific cardiovascular conditions, meaning they can provide highly specialized care tailored to your needs. Common cardiovascular issues include:
Although all cardiologists are experts in cardiovascular disease, they often specialize even further to specific disease types. Some of the most common include:
Whether you’re being proactive to prevent future heart disease risks or if you’re looking for specialized care for your cardiovascular condition, UI Heart and Vascular Center has the expertise, technology, and most advanced treatments available to address your specific needs.
Heart care when you need it
If you are at risk for heart disease, regular appointments with your cardiologist are key to keeping you healthy. Schedule your appointment or find a cardiologists today.
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