Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between a cardiologist and a general practitioner?
A cardiologist is a specialist in diagnosing and managing heart and vascular conditions, while a general practitioner provides broad primary care across many areas of health.
2. When should I see a cardiologist?
Book a consultation if you have chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, high blood pressure, or a family history of heart disease.
3. What symptoms might suggest heart disease?
Warning signs include chest discomfort, fatigue, breathlessness, palpitations, dizziness, or swelling in the legs.
4. What happens during a cardiology consultation?
Your cardiologist will review your history, examine you, assess risk factors, and may order tests such as ECG or echocardiogram.
5. Do I need a referral to see a cardiologist in Australia?
Yes. A GP referral is required for Medicare rebates and coordinated care.
6. What tests might a cardiologist order?
Tests may include ECG, echocardiogram, stress test, CT coronary angiogram (CTCA), Holter monitor, and blood tests.
7. What is an echocardiogram and why is it done?
An echocardiogram is an ultrasound of the heart used to assess structure, valve function, and pumping performance.
8. How accurate is a CT coronary angiogram (CTCA) for chest pain?
CTCA is highly accurate for detecting coronary narrowing and is commonly used to exclude coronary artery disease.
9. What is atrial fibrillation and how is it treated?
Atrial fibrillation is an irregular heart rhythm that increases stroke and heart failure risk. Treatment includes anticoagulation, rate or rhythm control, and risk factor management.
10. What is left atrial (LA) strain and why does it matter?
LA strain measures atrial function and helps assess diastolic dysfunction and risk of atrial fibrillation or heart failure.
11. What are the risks of high blood pressure if left untreated?
Uncontrolled blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and heart failure.
12. Can high cholesterol cause heart disease?
Yes. Elevated cholesterol accelerates plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
13. What is heart failure and how is it managed?
Heart failure occurs when the heart does not pump effectively. It is managed with medications, lifestyle changes, and sometimes devices or surgery.
14. Is shortness of breath always a heart problem?
No. It can also result from lung disease, anaemia, or deconditioning, but cardiac causes must be excluded.
15. What are the latest treatments for coronary artery disease?
Treatments include medications, lifestyle changes, coronary stenting, and in some cases bypass surgery.
16. Can a cardiologist help prevent heart attacks or strokes?
Yes. Cardiologists focus on prevention through blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes control, along with lifestyle management.
17. What lifestyle changes are recommended for heart health?
A heart-healthy diet, regular physical activity, smoking cessation, weight management, and stress reduction are key.
18. What heart conditions are inherited or genetic?
Examples include hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, familial hypercholesterolaemia, and certain inherited arrhythmias.
19. What medications are commonly prescribed for heart conditions?
These may include statins, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, anticoagulants, and diuretics—tailored to each patient’s condition.
20. How often should I follow up with a cardiologist?
Follow-up depends on your condition; stable patients may only need annual reviews, while others require closer monitoring.