Cardiologists Explained: What They Do and When You Should See One

When something does not feel quite right with your heart, it is understandable to have questions. You may have experienced chest discomfort, palpitations, breathlessness or unusual tiredness, or perhaps your GP has recommended seeing a specialist.

At Westbourne Medical Studios, we understand that being referred to a cardiologist can feel daunting. Our aim is to make the process straightforward, reassuring and focused on you.

In this guide, we explain what a cardiologist does, the conditions they can help with and when it may be appropriate to arrange a cardiology assessment.

A cardiologist is a doctor who specialises in the heart and cardiovascular system, including the blood vessels.

You may hear the terms ‘heart specialist’ and ‘cardiologist’ used interchangeably. They both refer to a doctor with specialist expertise in diagnosing, monitoring and treating conditions affecting the heart and circulation.

Cardiologists can assess a wide range of symptoms and conditions, from heart rhythm problems and high blood pressure to coronary artery disease and heart valve conditions.

They can also provide advice about managing cardiovascular risk and maintaining good heart health.