Consultation of a doctor cardiologist

Clinics of Meliva provide comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services for cardiovascular diseases. When necessary, our cardiologists collaborate with specialists from other medical fields to ensure an accurate assessment of the patient’s condition and comprehensive medical care.

Cardiologist is a physician specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases of the heart and cardiovascular system. A cardiologist evaluates the function of the heart muscle, heart valves, conduction system, and blood vessels based on the patient’s medical history, physical examination, instrumental investigations, and laboratory tests. This care covers both acute conditions, such as myocardial infarction and cardiac arrhythmias, and chronic diseases, such as arterial hypertension and heart failure. During the consultation, the cardiologist assesses the heart’s condition, identifies potential diseases or risk factors, and determines the need for further examinations or treatment.

What conditions does a cardiologist diagnose?

In addition to acute conditions such as myocardial infarction and heart rhythm disorders, a cardiologist also evaluates chronic and progressive cardiovascular diseases and provides early prevention of heart and vascular conditions. During the consultation, the following conditions may be assessed:

• arterial hypertension;
• atherosclerosis;
• heart failure;
• cardiac arrhythmias;
• myocardial infarction;
• ischemic heart disease (including stable and unstable angina);
• rheumatic heart valve disease;
• pericardial diseases;
• cardiac tumors;
• aortic aneurysms of various severities;
• infective endocarditis and other septic valve lesions;
• myocarditis of unclear origin;
• pulmonary thromboembolic disease;
• congenital heart defects.

What tests does a cardiologist perform?

During the consultation, individual cardiovascular risk factors are also evaluated, including smoking, cholesterol levels, family history, coexisting medical conditions, and lifestyle factors. The following instrumental examinations may be performed:

• electrocardiogram (ECG) – recording of the heart's electrical activity;
• echocardiography – ultrasound evaluation of the heart’s structure and function;
• exercise stress testing – monitoring heart activity during physical exertion;
• 24-hour Holter monitoring – continuous heart rhythm monitoring over a 24-hour period.

The following laboratory tests may also be performed:

• blood lipid profile testing – assessment of cholesterol and its fractions;
• electrolyte testing (potassium, magnesium, sodium) – evaluation of minerals essential for heart function;
• blood coagulation tests – assessment of clotting function.

Additional hospital-based investigations may be performed when clinically indicated:

• transesophageal echocardiography – detailed examination of cardiac structures through the esophagus;
• coronary angiography – contrast-enhanced assessment of coronary artery patency.

When should you consult a cardiologist?

A cardiologist consultation is recommended if you experience any of the following symptoms or conditions:

• chest pain or discomfort;
• heart rhythm disturbances;
• elevated blood pressure;
• shortness of breath or rapid fatigue;
• dizziness or fainting episodes;
• preventive cardiovascular screening, especially if you have an increased risk profile or a family history of cardiovascular disease.

These symptoms may be related to the function of the cardiovascular system. During the consultation, the cardiologist reviews the patient’s medical history, performs a clinical examination, and, if necessary, prescribes additional tests.

Notes on investigations

Further diagnostic tests are prescribed individually based on the clinical evaluation, the patient’s symptoms, and the results of initial examinations. Depending on availability, certain tests, such as an ECG or echocardiography, may be performed during the consultation. The final diagnosis and treatment plan are determined based not only on test results but also on the patient’s overall clinical condition. Once all examination results are available, the cardiologist provides a clinical assessment and determines the most appropriate follow-up care or treatment strategy.