MetroHealth Heart & Vascular Center
When Should I See a Cardiologist?
 When do I need to start seeing a cardiologist?
Start by taking with your primary care doctor. If you have a family history of heart disease, be sure to describe it in detail.
If one or more immediate family members has been diagnosed with heart disease or has high blood pressure or cholesterol, your primary physician may refer you to a cardiologist.
A strong family history of heart disease, for example, may prompt your doctor to check your heart function.
If the results prove normal, usually you can continue to be monitored by your primary doctor.
 Why and how often do I need a stress test?
Your doctor will decide if it's appropriate for you to have a stress test. Stress tests are done if there's a change in symptoms, and when there might be a problem with the heart.
One reason for this test is if you have risk factors for heart disease or if other tests suggest blockages of the artery to the heart.
Another reason is if there are known blockages in the artery. A stress test can help determine the severity of those blockages so your doctor can recommend the best treatment options.
At some MetroHealth locations, such as Strongsville Health Center, stress tests are available onsite. This gives us the ability to see a patient, order tests immediately and usually offer the results that day.
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The MetroHealth Heart & Vascular Center offers expert services at several locations throughout the county. Find a cardiologist near you, or call 216-778-BEAT (2328) for more information.
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