A heart specialist examines the heart and the blood vessels to diagnose and treat various cardiovascular diseases. Heart specialists trained in surgery open the chest to perform operations.

One needs to visit a cadiologist if they experience symptoms such as pain in chest, shortness of breath, irregular heart beats, high blood pressure or dizziness.

At your visit to the cardiologist, a total review of the medical history and a complete physical exam will be done which includes measuring the blood pressure and heart rate. A cardiac exam is conducted where tests such as electrocardiogram are conducted to assess for risk of coronary artery disease.

Heart specialists generally advise tests such as stress electrocardiogram, 2D echo, CT Scans, ultrasound, lipid profile test, Chest X Ray, and angiogram to look for blocked arteries.

The process of visiting a heart specialist varies in different countries and are subject to various health insurance policies. Some patients may directly visit a heart specialist, but certain health care plans may require a referral from a primary care physician.