The most common cardiovascular issue is coronary artery disease (CAD), a narrowing or hardening of the blood vessels that bring oxygen and nutrients to the heart. CAD can trigger symptoms of angina—chest pain or pressure that you might notice when you exert yourself. When a coronary artery is completely blocked, a heart attack occurs. A cardiologist can help you reduce your risk of CAD and its complications by prescribing medications and lifestyle changes to control risk factors, including high blood pressure (hypertension) and high cholesterol.
Cardiologists also diagnose and treat arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats). Arrhythmias may not cause any symptoms, but, when present, symptoms can include palpitations, dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath and weakness or fatigue.