The cardiologist deals with the structure, functioning as well as diseases of the heart. Cardiology is a specialty of internal medicine.
What is a cardiologist?
A cardiologist deals with the structure, functioning as well as diseases of the heart. Cardiology is a specialty of internal medicine. A cardiologist is a specialist in internal medicine with a focus on cardiology, which deals with functional disorders of the cardiovascular system. He diagnoses, treats and monitors diseases that affect the heart itself. For example, he treats congenital or acquired heart defects, age-related cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, heart attacks and strokes. Cardiologists work independently in private practices, often in hospitals and in emergency medicine. After successfully completing a medical degree, cardiologists usually specialize in the direction of general internal medicine. The focus on cardiology is acquired through qualifying further training. The training to become a specialist in internal medicine with a focus on cardiology usually takes six years. Pediatric cardiology is an independent subspecialty in Germany.
Treatments
Cardiologists treat all diseases that affect the heart and cardiovascular system. These include, on the one hand, congenital and acquired heart diseases such as cardiac arrhythmias and heart valve defects. On the other hand, however, there are also cardiovascular diseases such as strokes, high blood pressure and arterial occlusive diseases, which do not necessarily have to do directly with the heart. Especially age-related diseases such as heart failure and coronary heart disease are treated by cardiologists. Furthermore, they treat inflammatory diseases such as myocarditis or heart disease after an infection such as streptococcus. It is not uncommon for there to be overlap and collaboration with other medical specialties. This is the only way to ensure optimal care for the patient. Cardiologists are often involved in intensive care, for example after heart attacks or strokes or after acute occlusive diseases. They take over the pacemaker therapy and as well as the aftercare and are available to the patient in an advisory capacity. After diagnostics and a detailed examination, they decide whether operations such as the insertion of an implantable defibrillator are necessary or whether medication must be administered. Cardiologists are also involved in rehabilitation procedures and evaluate patients for their ability to work under stress.
Diagnostic and examination methods
A cardiologist has a whole range of medical equipment at his or her disposal for diagnosis and therapy monitoring. Because this equipment is usually very expensive, several cardiologists often work in a group practice. Important devices for an initial examination and anamnesis are the blood pressure monitor, the stethoscope and the laboratory. This gives a first impression of the patient’s condition. Depending on the clinical picture, an ECG, including a long-term ECG, can contribute to a more detailed diagnosis. Another important examination method is ultrasound. This can be used to record essential data such as the size of the heart and surrounding blood vessels, heart rhythm and blood flow. Ultrasound in particular offers a wide range of possibilities. However, cardiologists also use CT and MRI in cardiology. This makes a more precise diagnosis possible and can be decisive for surgical interventions. A very common method are the so-called catheter examinations with or without the use of contrast media. A distinction is made between left and right heart catheterization, with the latter being performed less frequently. This minimally invasive procedure allows a comprehensive examination. At the same time, interventions such as the dilatation of vessels can be performed. This saves time and makes the burden on the patient as low as possible, as a second intervention can be avoided. In some cases, the various diagnostic procedures are performed at rest and under stress.
What should the patient be aware of?
For any successful treatment, a solid and trusting relationship between doctor and patient is necessary. Special emphasis should also be placed on professional qualifications when choosing a cardiologist. Especially if the disease is not a routine one.There are also specializations and professional differences among cardiologists. More detailed information can be provided by professional associations and health insurance companies. One of the first points of contact is the family doctor. He can also help with the choice. The setup of the practice is another criterion in the choice. If many examinations are necessary, it is often better to choose a practice with extensive examination facilities. This not only saves time, but is also less stressful for the patient.
