Who is a cardiologist, and how do they become one?
While primary care physicians look after various illnesses throughout the day, they may not be equipped to deal with specific concerns such as heart problems. A cardiologist is a doctor who has the required education and training in preventing, diagnosing, and treating heart conditions. Since they are experts in looking after your heart and blood vessels, you can turn to them to find out if you have a heart problem or manage your risk of getting one.
To become a cardiologist, one must complete the following:
- Four years of medical school
- Three years of training in internal medicine
- Three years of specialized training
Following a decade of rigorous training, a cardiologist becomes eligible for certification by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Cardiologists specialize in different types of heart and vascular problems. Some of these specialties are:
- Clinical cardiology
- Heart failure
- Interventional cardiology
- Cardio-oncology
- Congenital heart
- Cardiac imaging
- Peripheral interventional cardiology
- Preventive cardiology
- Cardiac rehabilitation
- Electrophysiology
- Geriatric Cardiology
- Cardio-rheumatology
- Sports Cardiology
- Critical care cardiology
You may find cardiologists working in hospitals as well as private practices.
What do cardiologists do?
Cardiologists treat problems with your heart, blood vessels, and other vascular issues. They order tests such as electrocardiograms (EKG), echocardiograms, and blood tests to make a diagnosis. They can treat a wide range of heart and vascular problems, such as:
- Atherosclerosis
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Angina (chest pain)
- Sudden cardiac arrest
- Heart failure
- Heart attack
- Blood clots
- Heart rhythm disorders
- Cardiogenic shock
- Heart valve problems
- Heart abnormalities
- Congenital conditions (from birth)
- Problems with the aorta, such as aneurysms or stenosis
- Problems with arteries, such as coronary artery disease and renal artery disease
- Stroke
Cardiologists perform procedures such as implanting a pacemaker or inserting a cardiac catheter. They may also prescribe medications and recommend lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise.
What are the different types of cardiologists?
Cardiology is a diverse and expansive field within medicine, encompassing numerous subspecialties. The American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) accredits four subspecialties, each focusing on specific aspects of cardiovascular health:
- Advanced heart failure and transplant cardiology: Cardiologists specializing in advanced heart failure and transplant cardiology are experts in managing complex heart failure cases and patients requiring heart transplants. They employ advanced electrophysiologic and hemodynamic support devices and surgical interventions. These specialists often serve as consultants for other physicians treating patients with severe heart failure. To become certified in this subspecialty, physicians must undergo an additional year of training following their completion of a cardiovascular disease fellowship.
- Adult congenital heart disease: This subspecialty focuses on adult patients with congenital heart defects and anomalies in their heart or blood vessels. Treating such patients necessitates coordination with various healthcare providers to provide comprehensive, long-term care. To become certified in adult congenital heart disease, physicians must complete two additional years of fellowship training after their cardiovascular disease fellowship.
- Clinical cardiac electrophysiology: Clinical cardiac electrophysiologists concentrate on managing intricate cardiac rhythm disorders. They conduct both noninvasive and invasive diagnostic procedures and employ various methods to treat arrhythmias, including medication prescriptions, implantation of electrical devices, and other cutting-edge techniques. Certification in this subspecialty requires an extra one-year fellowship beyond completing a cardiovascular disease fellowship.
- Interventional cardiology: Interventional cardiology involves using specialized imaging and diagnostic techniques to assess different aspects of the cardiovascular system, often using catheters. Physicians specializing in interventional cardiology must undergo additional fellowship training after their cardiovascular disease training to master these procedures.
- Advanced cardiovascular imaging: This specialized field demands thorough training in using advanced cardiovascular computed tomography (CCT) and cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques for physicians.
When should you see a cardiologist?
You may consult your primary care provider or visit a cardiologist near you if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Shortness of breath: This may serve as an early indicator of a cardiac issue and requires immediate attention.
- Dizziness: A swirling or spinning sensation that is focused in the head. It can be a symptom of various conditions, such as heart disease or unstable blood pressure.
- Fainting spells: Loss of consciousness can be caused by low blood flow to the brain. It can point to anemia, panic attacks, low blood sugar, or heart disease.
- Chest pain: Angina, or chest pain, develops when the heart experiences an oxygen deficiency. The pain may also move to the shoulder, arm, or jaw.
- Fluttering sensation: It can be experienced as palpitations, erratic thumping, or a racing heart.
You must address such concerns, especially if you experience them frequently. Call 911 if you have chest pain along with any of the following:
- Pain spreading to the jaw, back, or left arm
- A feeling of tightness, squeezing, or pressure under the breastbone
- Shortness of breath, specifically when inactive
- Nausea, dizziness, rapid heart rate, or excessive sweating
- Very low heart rate or blood pressure
What can you expect on your first cardiologist visit?
During the first appointment, a cardiologist would ask questions regarding your personal and family medical history. They will want to know if anyone in your family has had a heart problem. This information helps your cardiologist know what heart issues you may be at risk for. They would also want to know if you smoke, how much you exercise, and what your diet looks like. They may ask you questions such as:
- When did the symptoms start?
- How would you rate the pain? (mild or sharp)
- What were you doing when these symptoms started?
- Does anything help you feel better?
- Have you had surgery or taken medication in the past?
- What medicines are you taking right now?
Your cardiologist will conduct a physical exam and check your heart rhythm. They may also perform an electrocardiogram to get a quick reading or schedule it for your next appointment.
Your cardiologist may also perform tests to evaluate your heart health and identify any cardiovascular conditions. Some of these tests are:
- Cardiac catheterization
- Ultrasound
- Cardiac biopsy
- Stress test
The cardiologist will diagnose your condition and recommend a treatment plan based on the results. It may include prescriptions or advice about diet and lifestyle changes. In some cases, the cardiologist may recommend surgery.
Eight simple steps to a heart-healthy diet
A heart-healthy diet is essential to prevent heart disease, and while it may seem challenging to change your eating habits, small steps can make a big difference. Whether you're looking to revamp your diet or make minor adjustments, here are some practical tips to guide you:
- Control portion sizes: Overeating can lead to excess calorie intake, so be mindful of your portions. Opting for smaller plates and prioritizing low-calorie, nutrient-dense foods can help promote better heart health.
- Eat more vegetables and fruits: Packed with minerals, vitamins, and fiber, fruits and vegetables are essential for heart health. Incorporate more of these into your diet by choosing recipes that feature them as main ingredients, like vegetable stir-fries or fruit salads.
- Choose whole grains: Whole grains, like barley, brown rice, and buckwheat, are rich in fiber and other nutrients that support heart health. Aim to make at least half of your grain intake from whole grains.
- Limit unhealthy fats: Reducing your intake of saturated and trans fats can decrease your cholesterol levels and lower your risk of heart disease. Opt for healthier fats like nuts, seeds, and olive oil while avoiding high-fat options like butter and lard.
- Choose low-fat protein sources: Lean meats, fish, and proteins that are plant-based, like lentils and beans, are excellent choices for a heart-healthy diet. These are lower in fat and cholesterol, helping you maintain a balanced diet.
- Reduce sodium and salt: High sodium intake can elevate blood pressure. It is a major risk factor for heart disease. Avoid processed foods, choose fresh alternatives, and opt for low-sodium versions of your favorite condiments.
- Plan ahead by creating daily menus: Plan your meals in advance and include a diverse range of healthy menu options to maintain a balanced diet.
- Treat yourself occasionally: It's perfectly fine to occasionally enjoy your favorite treat. But remember to keep an eye on the portion sizes and treat sugary and high-fat snacks as rare indulgences.
While these general tips provide a solid foundation for long-term heart health, seeking personalized advice from a dietitian or cardiologist can offer recommendations that suit your individual needs.
How to find a good cardiologist near you in Flushing, New York?
Are you looking for a cardiologist in Flushing? Zocdoc can help you find in-network healthcare providers anywhere across the United States. Enter keywords such as "heart problem," "heart doctor," or "cardiologist," along with your location and the preferred appointment date to find cardiologists who are available near you. If you have healthcare insurance, you can add the details to find cardiologists who will accept your insurance.
Can't find your insurance plan on Zocdoc? You can upload an image of your medical insurance card, and we'll scan it to identify your plan (this feature isn't available for vision or dental cards). Should you face any issues with the upload, our service team is here to assist. For additional support, visit Zocdoc's patient help center.
Profiles listed on Zocdoc include the cardiologist's education, training, certifications, and office details. You can also use filters such as distance, gender, and whether or not the provider treats children. Zocdoc also offers user-verified reviews and ratings for every provider listed on the website, making it easier to find the best cardiologist near you. You can select the office location and an available time slot to book your appointment for free.
All bookings on Zocdoc are simple, secure, and free.
Heart-related statistics in New York
According to a study from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in May 2021, New York stood out as one of the states with the highest concentration of cardiologists, with a total of 1,610 practitioners in the field.
According to the New York State Department of Health, roughly one in five (697,000) people die of heart disease yearly. Coronary heart disease is a common heart disease that has resulted in approximately 382,820 deaths. Around 805,000 Americans have a heart attack each year. Of these, about 605,000 cases are first heart attacks, while about 200,000 people have had one before.
In New York, about 32% of deaths in 2020 were caused by cardiovascular disease. Moreover, roughly 7.3% of adults reported having a heart attack, stroke, or angina in the same year. Approximately 18.9% of people above 65 in the state reported cardiovascular disease. Around 6,000 people in New York die from stroke every year. In May 2021, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics recorded New York as the state with the highest number of cardiologists, with a total of 1,610 practitioners.
Sources
Cleveland Clinic
WebMD
New York State Department of Health
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
St. George's University
Mayo Clinic
