When Should You Visit a Cardiologist?

Throughout a person's lifetime, the heart beats approximately 2.5 billion times. This remarkable "engine" directly influences the health of the entire body. Dr. Yusup Omarov, cardiologist at Kandinsky Clinic, explains when you shouldn't delay visiting a doctor.

Understanding Heart Health Signs

Many symptoms and signs may warrant a visit to a cardiologist. It's crucial to understand that diseases don't always present with obvious symptoms, so even subtle changes in well-being should be evaluated by a specialist.

Signs of Coronary Heart Disease and Heart Failure

Chest pain is one of the most common reasons for consulting a cardiologist. It may be sharp or pressing, radiating to the arms, neck, jaw, or back. This condition typically indicates coronary heart disease: angina or myocardial infarction.

Heart attacks can also manifest through various arrhythmias, general weakness, loss of consciousness, nausea, vomiting, and elevated body temperature. Delaying medical attention in such cases is unacceptable and can lead to serious consequences.

Shortness of breath, whether during physical activity or at rest, can be dangerous. Sometimes it may be the only manifestation of coronary heart disease. However, in most cases, breathlessness related to heart issues indicates heart failure, where the heart cannot adequately pump blood throughout the body. Additionally, heart failure may manifest through edema, typically in the legs and feet.

Arrhythmia Symptoms

Sensations of rapid heartbeat and pauses between heart contractions may indicate conditions like extrasystoles or sinus arrhythmia, which are often harmless. However, these symptoms could also signal more serious arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, or ventricular tachycardia, requiring immediate treatment and ongoing monitoring. Dizziness and fainting can also indicate life-threatening types of arrhythmias.

Blood Pressure Concerns

High blood pressure, whether discovered accidentally or during routine check-ups, is among the most common reasons for visiting a cardiologist. It's important to note that subjectively tolerating high blood pressure well doesn't mean treatment isn't necessary. Lack of treatment and regular monitoring can eventually lead to serious complications, including heart attacks and strokes.

Sleep Apnea Risk

Loud snoring and breathing pauses during sleep may indicate obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. This condition not only significantly reduces quality of life but also increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Cholesterol Management

Elevated cholesterol levels can lead to negative health consequences over time, as it can accumulate on artery walls, leading to atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis affects vessels throughout the body and frequently causes heart attacks and strokes. Target cholesterol values vary depending on age, existing conditions, and lifestyle factors, making it important to consult a specialist rather than self-treat.

Regular Check-up Schedule

The first cardiologist visit should ideally occur at age 18. Subsequent visit frequency for check-ups and screenings may vary depending on cardiovascular risk factors, including family history, diabetes, obesity, hypertension, smoking, and sedentary lifestyle. Generally, for those without cardiovascular risk factors, regular cardiologist visits are recommended for men over 40 and women over 50 or post-menopause.