Some heart problems begin with subtle symptoms. Chest discomfort, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, swelling or unusual fatigue may be signs it’s time to see a cardiologist. Banner Health makes it easier to get answers, testing and expert heart care close to home.
A cardiologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating heart problems. Cardiologists manage conditions involving the heart and blood vessels, like heart failure, rhythm disorders and heart valve disease.
Many people think these specialists only treat heart attacks but you can see a cardiologist for:
If you have new symptoms or if your symptoms are getting worse, it might be time to see a specialist. They can help determine if your symptoms are related to your heart. Getting checked early can help prevent damage to your heart muscle and tissue.
Pay attention to chest pain or discomfort, especially if it happens during activity or stress or if symptoms keep coming back. It may feel like:
Feeling winded during normal activities may mean your heart is not pumping blood efficiently. Talk to a doctor if you have trouble breathing while:
Palpitations can feel like your heart is skipping a beat, fluttering or racing. These sensations may be signs of issues with your heart's electrical system. A cardiologist can use a monitor to look for abnormal rhythms.
Fainting or feeling lightheaded can be linked to heart rhythm, blood flow or blood pressure issues.
Swelling in your ankles, feet or legs can happen when your heart struggles to move blood through the body because of circulation or heart function problems. You may also notice swelling in your abdomen.
Feeling very tired or having low energy can be a sign of heart disease, especially if the fatigue is new or gets worse over time. It may happen because your heart muscle is working harder to keep up with your activity.
Uncontrolled high blood pressure increases the strain on your heart and arteries. It can lead to serious issues like kidney damage or stroke. Talk to a provider if your blood pressure stays high even with medication or lifestyle changes.
Not sure if your symptoms need evaluation? Find a Banner Health cardiologist near you.
Women don't always experience the classic signs of heart disease, such as crushing chest pain. They may be more likely to have symptoms like unusual fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea, back, neck or jaw pain or discomfort rather than severe chest pain. Learn more about women’s heart health.
Call 911 if you have:
Understanding your risk helps you prevent heart problems before they start. Common factors include:
An evaluation could still be a good idea if you have:
A cardiologist may want to use imaging to check for plaque buildup in your arteries.
Follow-up care after an emergency visit can help uncover the cause of your symptoms. You may need to see a cardiologist for:
Your cardiologist will:
It’s a good idea to bring these items to your appointment:
A cardiologist uses various tools to see how well your heart works. Common tests include:
Our experts in rhythm disorders, valve issues, heart disease and heart failure provide care ranging from prevention to advanced treatment. Our personalized plans and coordinated care help you protect your heart health.
Referral rules often depend on your specific insurance plan and location. Many people can schedule directly, while others may need to start with primary care.
Don’t wait for a heart emergency to see a cardiologist. If symptoms or risk factors are affecting your health, getting care early can help you find answers and protect your heart. Connect with a Banner Health cardiologist today.
You should see a heart doctor if your blood pressure stays high and you’re treating it. They can help determine what’s causing it and prevent long-term damage.
Yes, you should notify your health care provider if your heart feels like it is racing or fluttering. A cardiologist can determine whether an irregular rhythm is causing it.
Basic screenings are the same but women may have unique risk factors and a cardiologist might suggest other evaluations to account for them. Learn more about women’s heart health.
Yes, anxiety and panic attacks can cause a racing heart, chest tightness and dizziness. If you have these symptoms, see your health care provider. Don’t assume it’s anxiety.
It depends on your health insurance coverage. Contact your insurance provider to see if you can book directly or if you need a referral from your primary care provider.
The earlier you get care, the better your heart health will be. Early treatment prevents irreversible damage to your heart tissue. Be sure to get care immediately for any emergency symptoms like severe chest pain or trouble breathing.
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