A cardiovascular specialist is a medical doctor specializing in diagnosing and treating heart disease and other circulatory system disorders. They may work in a hospital or clinic or be self-employed. Cardiovascular specialists may perform surgery, prescribe medication, or advise on lifestyle changes that can improve heart health. Some specialize in specific areas of heart disease, such as coronary artery disease or heart failure. This article looks at some of the common conditions a cardiovascular physician in Frisco, TX, can help treat.
Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed and blocked. This can lead to a heart attack, where part of the heart muscle dies due to a lack of oxygen. A cardiovascular specialist can diagnose CAD with a physical exam, an electrocardiogram (EKG), or an angiogram. They can then recommend treatment, including medication, surgery, or lifestyle changes.
Heart Attack
A heart attack occurs when the blood flow to the heart is blocked, depriving the heart muscle of oxygen. This can lead to chest pain, shortness of breath, and in some cases, death. A cardiovascular specialist can diagnose a heart attack with an EKG, a chest x-ray, or a blood test. They will then recommend treatment, including medication, surgery, or lifestyle changes.
Heart Failure
Heart failure is a condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. This can lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling in the legs and feet. A cardiovascular specialist can diagnose heart failure with a physical exam, an EKG, or a chest x-ray. They will then recommend treatment, including medication, surgery, or lifestyle changes.
Aortic Aneurysm
An aortic aneurysm is when the aorta, the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body, becomes weak and bulges. This can lead to chest pain, shortness of breath, and in some cases, death. A cardiovascular specialist can diagnose an aortic aneurysm with a physical exam, an EKG, or a chest x-ray. They will then recommend treatment, including medication, surgery, or lifestyle changes.
Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation is a condition in which the heart’s rhythm becomes irregular. This can lead to chest pain, shortness of breath, and in some cases, death. A cardiovascular specialist can diagnose atrial fibrillation with a physical exam, an EKG, or a chest x-ray. They will then recommend treatment, including medication, surgery, or lifestyle changes.
Arrhythmia
An arrhythmia is a condition in which the heart’s rhythm becomes abnormal. This can lead to chest pain, shortness of breath, and in some cases, death. A cardiovascular specialist can diagnose an arrhythmia with a physical exam, an EKG, or a chest x-ray. They will then recommend treatment, including medication, surgery, or lifestyle changes. In some cases, an arrhythmia may require a pacemaker.
In summary, a cardiovascular specialist is a medical doctor specializing in diagnosing and treating heart disease and other circulatory system disorders. They help treat various conditions, including coronary artery disease, heart attack, heart failure, aortic aneurysm, atrial fibrillation, and arrhythmia. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is vital to see a cardiovascular specialist as soon as possible.
