If you have ever experienced problems with your heart, regardless of what it might be your primary care physician likely sent you to a specialist for further assessment and treatment. The doctor you would have seen who examined you and evaluated your condition would have been known as a cardiologist.

Cardiologists are doctors who have specialized training and skill when it comes to diagnosing, treating and preventing heart conditions and any diseases that may affect the heart. These physicians are experts when it comes to the work of the heart and the blood vessels. They know more than any other medical doctor about the cardiovascular system.

Cardiologists are also the professionals you should see to learn about the risk factors associated with heart disease. They can sit down with you and explain to you what foods to eat for heart health, as well as the importance of regular exercise and what lifestyle habits can weaken the heart and open the door for problems in the future.

A doctor of cardiology receives many years of education and the education and the education he/she receives is extensive. It would include four years attending medical school and then another three years of training and study in general internal medicine. The doctor then must spend three years and sometimes more in specialized training that is related to cardiology.

A physician of cardiology must first become certified to work in this field of medicine. Following a minimum of 10 years of schooling he/she must take and pass a two-day examination that is vigorous and very challenging. The American Board of Internal Medicine gives this examination to doctors in this specialty. The examination is very significant. Not only does it test the knowledge, skills and level of judgment of the medical professional but it also tests their ability to offer top-notch care to their future patients.

You will be sent to see such a specialist if your general practitioner believes that you are suffering from a heart condition that is serious in nature. Examples of symptoms that may signal the onset of a problem with the heart and the need for special tests include chest pains, shortness of breath, dizzy spells and recurrent episodes of fainting.

Any changes that show in an ECG are a valid reason to be sent to a doctor of cardiology. The same can be said for individuals who have a heart murmur. Cardiologists treat any number of heart issues including heart attacks, heart rhythm disturbances that are deemed serious and heart failure. These cardiovascular experts can provide the necessary help and guidance required by those who have suffered from heart disease. These patients need support from their doctors to return to living a high qualify life. They also need to be taught proper preventative measures to ensure a healthier heart for their future. The skills of such physicians are often called upon when significant decisions need to be made regarding medical procedures for patients such as heart surgery, cardiac catheterization and balloon angioplasty. Cardiologists often deal with life or death circumstances for the patients entrusted to their care.