You should make an appointment with a pediatric cardiologist if:
- There is a family history of fainting or heart disease
- Anyone in your family needed a pacemaker
- Your child has palpitations or chest pains during fainting spells
- Your child is passing out frequently during physical activity
When should I take my child to the cardiologist?
You should make an appointment with a pediatric cardiologist if: There is a family history of fainting or heart disease. Anyone in your family needed a pacemaker. Your child has palpitations or chest pains during fainting spells. Your child is passing out frequently during physical activity.
What is a pediatric cardiologist?
Pediatric cardiologists are heart doctors who work with children. Their practice is different from that of heart doctors who treat adults. Pediatric cardiologists primarily treat problems with a child’s heart's structure or rhythm. A pediatric cardiologist will work with your child's regular pediatrician or another primary care provider.
When should you see a cardiologist for heart disease?
If you’re considering a new workout regime after being inactive, or have a number of the risk factors for heart disease as listed above, you should consult your physician first. One marathon runner credits this step with saving his life. If you have any of these symptoms or risk factors, it could be time to see a cardiologist.
How can I tell if my child has a heart condition?
If your child is referred to a specialist, he may undergo common screening tests including an electrocardiogram (ECG). An ECG will look at the heart rhythm to see if there are any abnormal electrical patterns.
Why would a child be referred to a cardiologist?
Children may see a pediatric cardiologist if they have issues such as chest pain, dizziness, or fainting, and the doctor rules out heart issues. Pediatric cardiologists treat children with both congenital (present from birth) and acquired heart problems.
What age should you get a cardiac workup?
In reality, regular examinations and screenings related to heart health should begin at 20 years old, with most tests being performed every 2 to 4 years. Such measures can often clue both patient and physician into any potential heart problems before serious health complications occur.
When should you refer to cardiologist?
Multiple risk factors such as high blood pressure or cholesterol levels, being diabetic or smoking are all grounds for a referral to a heart doctor. So are things like being obese or overweight, a lack of physical activity and an unhealthy diet.
What will a cardiologist do on your first visit?
You will be asked both general health questions and some more specific questions related to the reason for your visit. A physical examination follows, and if necessary the doctor might arrange for further testing. The cardiologist might prescribe medication or provide your primary care provider with recommendations.
What is the best test to check for heart problems?
A coronary angiogram is a type of X-ray used to examine the coronary arteries supplying blood to your heart muscle. It's considered to be the best method of diagnosing coronary artery disease - conditions that affect the arteries surrounding the heart.
What is the best test to check heart health?
Common medical tests to diagnose heart conditionsBlood tests. ... Electrocardiogram (ECG) ... Exercise stress test. ... Echocardiogram (ultrasound) ... Nuclear cardiac stress test. ... Coronary angiogram. ... Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) ... Coronary computed tomography angiogram (CCTA)
Why do cardiologists look at your neck?
Finally, examining your neck can reveal possible circulatory problems. Your healthcare provider uses 2 fingers on each side of your neck to feel your carotid pulses. The right and left carotid arteries supply blood to your brain. Weak pulses could show a problem with the aortic valve or with the aorta.
How do you check for a heart blockage at home?
Official answer. You can check for heart disease at home by measuring your pulse rate and your blood pressure if you have a blood pressure monitor. You can also monitor yourself for symptoms of heart disease, such as: Chest pain, pressure, discomfort, or tightness.
Should I see a cardiologist or pulmonologist?
The difference, basically, is the area of specialization. The cardiologist is an expert on the heart, while the pulmonologist is an expert on the lungs. These areas of your body are closely linked, though, and work better together when both your heart and lungs are healthy.
What questions should I ask at my first cardiologist appointment?
Questions you should ask during your first cardiology visitCurrent medications including dose and frequency.Allergies or intolerance to medications.Your past health history such as surgeries or major illnesses, especially those within the last year.Your previous cardiovascular testing, including results if possible.More items...•
What do you wear to a cardiologist appointment?
Please wear loose comfortable clothing (i.e. tee shirt) and shoes. Shorts or slacks are appropriate. Ladies: No one piece dresses, long line bras, high heels or bras with underwire please. The exam will take approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
What is a stress test at the cardiologist?
A stress test usually involves walking on a treadmill or riding a stationary bike while your heart rhythm, blood pressure and breathing are monitored. Or you'll receive a drug that mimics the effects of exercise.
How often should I get a heart scan?
It is important for everyone to start getting heart screenings by the time they are about 20 years of age. It is recommended that they then come back for additional screenings every two to four years.
What is a cardiac workup?
A cardiac workup involves screenings and diagnostic tests that detect the signs of heart-related disease before you experience any symptoms. In many cases, these diseases won't cause symptoms until the condition becomes more severe. Common conditions a cardiac workup can detect and help prevent include: Stroke.
Who needs pre op EKG?
Prior to noncardiac surgery, an electrocardiogram (ECG) is obtained in all patients with known cardiovascular disease, significant arrhythmia, or significant structural heart disease unless the patient is undergoing low-risk surgery (surgery associated with less than 1 percent morbidity/mortality, such as ambulatory ...
How do you know if you have heart problems?
Besides blood tests and a chest X-ray, tests to diagnose heart disease can include:Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG). ... Holter monitoring. ... Echocardiogram. ... Exercise tests or stress tests. ... Cardiac catheterization. ... Heart (cardiac) CT scan. ... Heart (cardiac) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan.
What is pediatric cardiology?
Pediatric cardiology is focused on diseases of the heart in developing individuals: babies in utero through 21-year-olds. Pediatric cardiology is different from adult cardiology.
Why your child might see a pediatric cardiologist?
While a mother is pregnant, at the 20-week check-up a cardiac screening is done to make sure that the big structures of the heart have formed correctly. If the provider notices anything unusual, a patient is then referred to a pediatric cardiologist.
Signs and symptoms
The heart is complex. Symptoms can vary depending on what disease or defect is affecting the heart, but there are some red flags parents should be aware of:
What doctor can evaluate a heart murmur?
Your child’s pediatrician can evaluate many characteristics of the heart murmur to help determine whether it’s normal or abnormal. She can also determine whether or not additional evaluation by a pediatric cardiologist is required.
What is the ECG test for a child?
If your child is referred to a specialist, he may undergo common screening tests including an electrocardiogram (ECG). An ECG will look at the heart rhythm to see if there are any abnormal electrical patterns. Your child may also receive an echocardiogram, which is a targeted ultrasound of the heart to look for structural abnormalities.
How common are heart murmurs?
Heart murmurs are very common and can occur in 1 out of 4 children during their growing years. And most are considered normal, or “innocent,” and don’t require any medical interventions. An abnormal heart murmur, though, may suggest a structural problem or heart defect, which requires further evaluation by a cardiologist.
Can a child have heart palpitations?
While chest pain and palpitations are usually harmless, that doesn’ t mean you should ignore these heart symptoms. To rule out anything more serious, make an appointment with your child's pediatrician. Your family doctor will be able to determine whether or not your child should visit a pediatric cardiologist for further evaluation and testing.
Can kids have heart problems?
Most people think of heart problems as conditions that only affect adults, but kids can have heart problems, too. While most heart symptoms — such as chest pains and palpitations — are usually harmless, there are times when these common concerns should be evaluated by a pediatrician or a pediatric cardiologist. Here, we explain when it may be time to make an appointment.
How old do you have to be to see a pediatric cardiology?
Like other pediatricians, they normally see children until the age of 18 or sometimes 21. Some may see older patients who are living with heart defects.
What Does a Pediatric Cardiologist Do?
Pediatric cardiologists look for heart issues using tools such as echocardiogram, electrocardiogram, and imaging tests. They look for problems in the heart's formation or in the way it beats. Children may see a pediatric cardiologist if they have issues such as chest pain, dizziness, or fainting, and the doctor rules out heart issues.
What is the difference between a pediatric cardiologist and a pediatric cardiologist?
Their practice is different from that of heart doctors who treat adults. Pediatric cardiologists primarily treat problems with a child’s heart's structure or rhythm. A pediatric cardiologist will work with your child's regular pediatrician or another primary care provider. Pediatr ic cardiologists don ’t do surgery.
How many years of school do you need to become a pediatric cardiology?
Education and Training. Those who want to be pediatric cardiologists must have a four-year undergraduate degree. Then they must also have: Four years of medical school. Three years of pediatric residency. Board certification by the American Board of Pediatrics.
How many babies are born with a heart defect?
Around 40,000 American children are born each year with a congenital heart defect (CHD). About a quarter of CHDs are serious. Often a baby with a CHD needs surgery in the first year of life. Doctors diagnose some heart problems when the baby is still in the womb, usually using a technique called fetal echocardiogram. Other cardiac issues aren't diagnosed until after a baby is born, sometimes later.
What tests do you need to see before you see a doctor?
Your child may have some tests before you see the doctor. These may include electrocardiogram, echocardiogram or chest X-rays. The doctor will look at your child's test results. During the visit. they’ll ask questions, and perform a physical examination.
When do you need surgery for a CHD?
Often a baby with a CHD needs surgery in the first year of life. Doctors diagnose some heart problems when the baby is still in the womb, usually using a technique called fetal echocardiogram. Other cardiac issues aren't diagnosed until after a baby is born, sometimes later. Some CHDs aren’t considered critical.
What is the specialty of a pediatric cardiologist?
Pediatric cardiology ― focused on cardiovascular conditions in patients under 18. Vascular medicine ― focused on conditions affecting the arteries and veins. If your cardiologist decides that you need surgery, he or she may refer you to a cardiovascular surgeon who specializes in operations on the heart, lungs and blood vessels.
What are some examples of referrals to a cardiologist?
Examples of symptoms that suggest you may need a referral to a cardiologist include: The cardiologist will evaluate your symptoms, review your medical history and may recommend diagnostic tests to appropriately diagnose the cause of your symptoms and help your cardiology care team evaluate the best form of treatment for you.
What are the symptoms of a heart attack?
Examples of symptoms that suggest you may need a referral to a cardiologist include: 1 Chest discomfort 2 Shortness of breath 3 Swelling in your legs 4 High blood pressure 5 Abnormally fast or slow heart rate 6 Dizziness or fainting 7 Strong family history of premature heart disease or cardiac death 8 Leg pain or ulcers resulting from blood vessel diseases
What is cardiovascular health?
Cardiovascular health ― focused on preventing or slowing the progression of cardiovascular conditions
What is the first step to take to prevent heart disease?
If you are concerned about your cardiovascular system, the first step is to discuss your symptoms with your primary care provider, who will determine if you need a referral to a cardiologist. You also may be referred to learn about actions you can take to prevent heart disease.
What is the procedure that a doctor recommends?
A cardiac procedure. If medications aren't enough, it's possible your doctor will recommend specific procedures or surgery. The type of procedure or surgery will depend on the type of heart condition and the extent of the damage to your heart.
How to lower your risk of heart disease?
You can lower your risk of heart disease by eating a low-fat and low-sodium diet, getting at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol intake. Medications. If lifestyle changes alone aren't enough, your cardiologist may prescribe medications to control your condition.
What age can a cardiologist diagnose heart disease?
If a relative has had early-onset heart disease (under age 55 in men and 65 in women), then a cardiologist can help determine how this affects your risk, and may order testing or recommend preventive strategies. You have peripheral arterial disease.
How many times does the heart beat a day?
Your heart is one hard-working muscle, beating more than 100,000 times a day. It’s important to take preventive care of this crucial organ. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and worldwide. For people without known heart disease, it can be tricky to know when to see a cardiologist.
Is it safe to exercise if you have heart disease?
However, certain heart conditions can make exercise unsafe.
