Cardiac consultation procedures may vary but usually include interviews, physical examinations, other tests as required, and a diagnosis of the patient’s condition. However, preparation for consultation is an important step. To get the most benefits that this procedure can offer, patients are encouraged to:
- Prepare a list of any oral medications
- Bring results for other tests and medical tests
- Make a list of questions to ask the cardiologist
- Prepare a complete list of symptoms, including their severity and when they first appeared.
The patient’s blood pressure, height and weight measurements will be taken during the consultation. An Echocardiogram (ECG) or Echocardiography (ECHO) can also be performed. The consultation will begin with a brief discussion with a cardiologist. This is followed by the interpretation of ECG or ECHO results. With this information, the cardiologist might provide an initial or final diagnosis.
Although, if more information is required, the patient will be further tested, and a plan for these tests and follow-up consultation will be provided. Additional tests may include blood tests, x-rays, or stress tests. Once the cardiologist has all the necessary information, the patient will be informed of the diagnosis and treatment options, which may include the following:
- Lifestyle changes, which may include quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and exercising
- Medications that may include blood pressure, lower LDL cholesterol and other risk factors
- Cardiac rehabilitation.
- Some procedures like angioplasty and coronary artery bypass grafting