Cardiology is a specialty that identifies disorders of the heart and the vascular (blood vessel) system (which includes the arteries and veins).

Cardiologists treat people with conditions of the heart and people who want to learn about the potential risks for heart disease. Patients who are at risk for heart disease or have a history of symptoms related to heart disease may see a cardiologist on a regular basis. People with ongoing heart conditions, pacemakers, or frequent heart trouble are likely to see a cardiologist with a subspecialty, such as electrophysiology or interventional cardiology.

What are my risk factors for cardiovascular disease?

• Age – as we get older, we experience an increased risk for cardiovascular disease and heart attacks
• Gender – men have a greater risk of heart attack and are more likely to have heart attacks earlier in life
• Heredity – children of parents with heart disease are more likely to develop symptoms of heart disease later in life
• Lifestyle – people who smoke, are diabetic, overweight or physically inactive are also more likely to suffer from cardiovascular conditions

Place your cursor over a cardiovascular disorder below for a brief description:

ArrhythmiasOccurs when there is a problem that causes an abnormal rhythm of the heart muscle.
Cardiovascular DiseasesDisorders involving the heart and circulatory system
Coronary Artery DiseaseA narrowing of the small blood vessels that supply blood and oxygen to the heart
Coronary Heart Disease (CHD)A narrowing of the small blood vessels that supply blood and oxygen to the heart
Heart AttackOccurs when the circulation of blood to the heart is restricted due to clogged blood vessels
Heart BlockWhen electrical signals between the atria and ventricles are blocked, this causes the speed of the heart muscle contractions to become slower
HypertensionA chronic increase of blood pressure above normal ranges
Myocardial InfarctionOccurs when the circulation of blood to the heart is restricted due to clogged blood vessels
Sudden Cardiac ArrestWhen the heart unexpectedly ceases to function; usually caused by an arrhythmia called ventricular fibrillation
TachycardiaA medical term for a rapid heartbeat
Ventricular Tachycardia (VT)A very fast heart rate, typically seen in people with normal hearts; can be treated with radiofrequency ablation or defibrillator implantation