What Is Interventional Cardiology? What You Should Know
Interventional cardiology treats heart disease with procedures like balloon angioplasty. Learn what cardiologists do, how they train and when to see one.
The heart is one of the most vital organs in the human body. Even a small problem with it can disrupt your overall health. That is why it's important to look after your heart and have it checked regularly. If you don't, you may end up needing interventional cardiology treatment. Read on for the details.
Cardiology at a Glance
Cardiology is a branch of medicine that deals with heart disease. It covers the study and treatment of heart disorders and of the blood vessels. It is also often described as a subspecialty that looks after the health of the body's internal organs.
In this field, doctors focus on diagnosing and treating the heart disease a patient has. Heart disease here ranges from congenital conditions to heart failure. Cardiologists are responsible for handling all of these conditions by carrying out various procedures, including tests.
Cardiologists also commonly carry out a series of interventional procedures. These include the heart balloon technique, better known as angioplasty. A cardiologist who specializes in interventional cardiology differs from a cardiovascular thoracic surgeon, because the treatment techniques they use are very different.
A heart doctor who wants to become a cardiologist must complete three years of training to earn the qualification. During that time, doctors receive intensive training in evaluating, diagnosing and treating patients with heart disease.
Besides gaining that knowledge, cardiologists also gain competence in physical examinations, managing pacemakers, cardiac catheterization and cardioversion. After finishing their education, cardiology specialists take a cardiology exam overseen by the internal medicine board.
When to See a Cardiologist
If you notice a symptom or complaint involving your heart, you should see a cardiologist. When the complaint involves the heart, a general practitioner can't treat or diagnose it.
In general, heart disease shows up through symptoms such as dizziness, tiring quickly, shortness of breath and pain. If you experience these complaints, it is best to visit a doctor for a consultation and checkup. If it isn't treated promptly, you may need interventional cardiology treatment.
Read Also: What to Expect From a Cardiac Catheterization Test
