Cardiologist: what they treat and when to see one
A cardiologist specializes in the heart and circulatory system. Most people reach a cardiologist through a referral after a primary care physician spots an abnormal blood pressure reading, an irregular heartbeat, or a concerning symptom during exertion.
What a cardiologist treats
- Chest pain and chest pressure (once emergencies are ruled out)
- Heart palpitations and irregular heart rhythms
- High blood pressure that is difficult to control
- Shortness of breath brought on by activity
- Swelling in the legs and ankles
- High cholesterol with cardiac risk factors
- Heart failure, valve disease, and coronary artery disease
When to see a cardiologist
- Your blood pressure stays high despite treatment
- You feel your heart racing, fluttering, or skipping
- You become breathless doing things that used to be easy
- Your ankles swell regularly by the end of the day
- You have a strong family history of early heart disease
When to seek urgent or emergency care instead
Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if you experience any of the following. Do not wait for an appointment.
- Chest pain with shortness of breath, sweating, or nausea
- Chest pain spreading to the arm, jaw, or back
- Fainting or near-fainting
- A racing heartbeat with dizziness or chest discomfort
Do you need a referral?
Many insurance plans require a referral from a primary care physician before they will cover a specialist visit. Our referral checker shows how each plan type usually works. If you are unsure, start with your primary care physician. They can evaluate the problem, treat it directly if appropriate, and refer you if not.
Related symptom guides
Related specialties
Prepare for your appointment
Appointments are short. Our appointment prep sheet builder puts your symptoms and the right questions on one printable page you can take with you.
Sources
- MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine (medlineplus.gov)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (cdc.gov)
- Relevant national medical specialty association guidance
This is not medical advice. This guide explains what a specialty treats so you can pick the right type of doctor. It does not diagnose conditions. In an emergency, call 911. Read our full medical disclaimer.