Wellness
What to Expect at Your First Cardiology-Related Visit
How to prepare for heart-health evaluations, which questions to ask, and how primary care coordinates with cardiology specialists.
6 min read
Many patients begin heart-related evaluation with primary care. Depending on symptoms and risk factors, your clinician may order an EKG, labs, or referral to a cardiologist for advanced testing.
Bring this information
- List of medications and supplements
- Family history of early heart disease
- Symptom diary (chest discomfort, palpitations, shortness of breath)
- Prior records if available
Emergency symptoms
If you have crushing chest pain, pain radiating to the arm or jaw, severe shortness of breath, or fainting, call 911. This article is for non-emergency preparation only.