Cardiology Department: Conditions, Tests and When to Go
Cardiology is the medical specialty that diagnoses and treats diseases of the heart and blood vessels. Cardiologists look after problems with heart rhythm, the heart muscle, the valves and the coronary arteries that supply the heart with blood. Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, so prevention, early testing and long-term follow-up are a big part of the work.
What Does Cardiology Treat?
- Coronary artery disease and heart attack
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Heart failure
- Abnormal rhythms such as atrial fibrillation
- Valve disease
- High cholesterol and cardiovascular risk
Common Tests in Cardiology
- ECG (electrocardiogram)
- Echocardiogram (heart ultrasound)
- Exercise stress test
- Holter or event monitor
- Coronary angiography
- Blood tests such as troponin and lipids
When Should You See a Cardiology Specialist?
- Chest pain or pressure (call emergency services if sudden or severe)
- Breathlessness on mild effort or when lying flat
- Palpitations, fainting or a resting pulse that stays above 100 or below 50
- Swollen ankles with tiredness
Who Works in Cardiology?
Cardiologists work with cardiac nurses, physiologists who run ECG and echo tests, interventional teams in the cath lab and cardiac surgeons.
Patient Tip
Bring a list of your medicines and home blood pressure readings to every appointment.
How to Prepare for Your Visit
- Write down your symptoms, when they started and what makes them better or worse.
- Bring a list of all medicines and supplements, with doses.
- Carry previous reports, scans and discharge summaries.
- Note your questions in advance and, if possible, bring a family member.
Questions to Ask Your Cardiology Specialist
- What is the most likely cause of my symptoms, and what else could it be?
- Which tests do I need, and what will the results change?
- What are the benefits and risks of each treatment option, including doing nothing?
- Which warning signs mean I should return urgently?
Getting Referred
In Pakistan and many other countries, the usual route to a Cardiology specialist is through a family physician or general practitioner, who can start tests and write a referral. Large teaching hospitals and specialist centres also run outpatient clinics. In an emergency, go straight to the nearest emergency department.
Related Guides on ghkh.site
- Heart Attack symptoms and treatment
- Hypertension symptoms and treatment
- Free symptom checker
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This Cardiology department guide is educational and based on public information from WHO, CDC, NIH and NHS. It does not replace advice from a qualified clinician. Explore all specialties in our medical departments directory.