Cardiology

What is cardiology?

Cardiology is a field of medicine that deals with heart problems. You may need to see a cardiologist if you have a heart attack or blood clot. Cardiologists can also treat chronic conditions like high blood pressure or angina.

At Heart & Vascular Institute, patients work with a team of cardiovascular specialists. First, your provider identifies heart problems and develops a treatment plan. They also offer preventive care that is designed to keep your heart healthy for as long as possible. 

If you’ve already experienced a heart attack, Heart & Vascular Institute also offers rehabilitation. Rehab can help speed up your recovery and improve your mobility.

How are cardiovascular problems diagnosed?

Heart & Vascular Institute uses state-of-the-art diagnostics to assess heart function. During your evaluation, your provider may recommend:

• Electrocardiography (ECGs)
• Cardiac stress tests
• Coronary CT angiography
• Cardiac MRIs
• Cardiac monitoring
• Spirometry
• Echocardiography
• Carotid ultrasounds
• Nuclear heart scans

Heart & Vascular Institute also includes a fully accredited lab, rated No. 1 in Michigan. No matter what kind of testing you need, the practice delivers accurate results.

How are cardiovascular problems treated?

Once your tests are complete, your provider explains the results. If your tests reveal a problem, they deliver expert guidance and treatment recommendations. Your provider helps you determine your next step. 

Cardiovascular problems often respond well to medication. As part of your treatment plan, you may receive blood thinners to prevent clots. Your provider might also suggest medication to lower your blood pressure or control your blood sugar.

If medication isn't enough, the Heart & Vascular Institute offers a range of in-office and off-site procedures. Many patients benefit from:

• Left heart catheterization (LHC)
• Right heart catheterization (RHC)
• Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters 
• Carotid angiograms and stents
• Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs)

Your provider can help you decide what kind of care is right for you. The team works with you to assess the risks of each procedure.

The Heart & Vascular Institute also performs cardiac preoperative clearance. This in-depth evaluation can determine how well you'll respond to an operation. Your provider may recommend this evaluation before scheduling a surgery.

What preventive care is available?

Preventive care is vital for protecting your heart health. The Heart & Vascular Institute team can help you develop a cardiac prevention plan. Your preventive plan may help lower your risk of heart disease. 

Cardiovascular preventive care may include:

• Fitness recommendations
• Dietary changes and meal plans
• Medication and supplements
• Smoking cessation 
• Stress management

As part of your preventive care, your provider also strives to diagnose early heart disease. Timely intervention can help you avoid invasive treatments and reduce your risk of a heart attack.

Let Heart & Vascular Institute help you resolve your heart problems. Call the office today or schedule an appointment online.