A cardiologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the study and treatment of disorders of the cardiovascular system, which includes the heart, arteries, and veins. They are experts on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of heart conditions. Here are some of the things that a cardiologist does:

• Diagnosis: Cardiologists can diagnose heart diseases and conditions such as chest pain, high blood pressure, heart failure, heart valve disease, arrhythmia, and coronary artery disease. They may give physical exams, order tests such as electrocardiograms (EKGs), blood tests, and exercise stress tests, as well as interpret tests.

• Treatment: Cardiologists can treat heart diseases and help keep you from getting heart diseases. They can order medicine, recommend lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, reducing stress levels, and managing weight. They can also perform procedures such as implanting a pacemaker or inserting a cardiac catheter.

• Specialization: There are at least a dozen different kinds of cardiologists who specialize in different kinds of heart and vascular problems, such as cardiac imaging or cardiac rehabilitation. Some common types of cardiologists include clinical cardiologists, heart failure specialists, interventional cardiologists, and congenital heart specialists.

• Education and Training: Cardiologists go through medical school before focusing on heart-related specialties. A typical cardiologist undergoes at least 10 years of medical training, including four years of medical school, three years of training within internal medicine, and three additional years of medical training specific to cardiology.

If you are experiencing symptoms related to your heart or have a family history of heart disease, it is recommended to see a cardiologist. They can evaluate your current health, understand your risk for future heart disease, and help you make lifestyle changes to improve your heart health.