A cardiovascular doctor, or cardiologist, is a medical doctor with specialized training in finding, treating, and preventing any disease related to the heart and blood vessels. As a professional cardiologist, the doctor must meet the standards of the Fellow of the American College of Cardiology (F.A.C.C.). Having this accreditation attests to the doctor’s competence and commitment to excellence and helping treat their patients. Physicians with this accreditation also pledge to both cooperate and remain loyal to the standards associated with this training.
Training, Certifications, And Education
Cardiologists receive extensive education including four years of medical school and three years of general internal medicine experience. A cardiologist spends three or more years in specialized training. These ten or more years of training make this medical doctor competent in all things related to the cardiovascular system of the body.
A cardiovascular doctor becomes certified after they have received a minimum of ten years of preparation and pass a two-day exam. This test tests judgment, knowledge, and their specific ability to provide superior care.
When You Should See A Cardiologist
A patient should see a cardiologist for help if they experience chest pain, dizzy spells, or shortness of breath. A cardiologist can suggest certain testing to determine the cause of these life-threatening symptoms. Most importantly, a cardiologist hopes to prevent heart disease from occurring. Cardiovascular doctors specifically treat heart failure, arrhythmias, and heart attacks. They can make important decisions about procedures such as balloon angioplasty, heart surgery, or catheterization.
A cardiologist will review a patient’s medical history and perform a thorough medical examination. They will diagnose the symptoms or suggest additional tests, which will help with the diagnosis process. Some tests that may be suggested including echocardiogram, stress tests, or ECG. They may also perform minor surgical procedures.
Ultimately if you’re experiencing cardiovascular symptoms, schedule an appointment with Fort Bend Heart Center to prevent heart disease complications. Call our Sugar Land, TX office today.