Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, but it is preventable. If you have been diagnosed with a heart condition, or are at risk for heart disease, the cardiologists at the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute are here to help.
Our team of cardiologists will create a treatment plan dedicated to your needs. Our goal is to improve your heart health and quality of life.
UPMC offers the largest and most complete heart surgery program in Pennsylvania. We will work with your PCP to provide comprehensive, expert care close to home.
What is Cardiology?
Cardiology focuses on the study and treatment of disorders of the blood vessels and heart. If you are experiencing heart disease symptoms, your PCP may refer you to a cardiologist for specialized care.
Symptoms that can indicate a heart problem include:
- Chest pain.
- Dizziness.
- High blood pressure.
- Shortness of breath.
- Changes in heart rate or rhythm.
Our cardiologists may perform a series of tests to determine your diagnosis. They may also ask you questions about your symptoms, lifestyle, and family history.
These tests may include:
Once your cardiologist confirms your diagnosis, they will create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. This may include lifestyle changes, medication, or heart surgery.
If you have three or more risk factors for cardiac disease or are concerned about your family history, you may be managed by our preventive cardiology services. We offer a detailed review of risk factors to determine if heart screenings or tests are necessary based on your health history.
What conditions do you treat?
Cardiologists at UPMC treat a range of cardiac conditions, including:
What Heart Disease Care Services Do You Offer?
Our heart specialists:
- Determine the best approach for you.
- Deliver state-of-the-art heart treatments tailored to your needs.
- Emphasize care of the whole person — not just your heart.
Whether treatment involves recovery, repair, or replacement, you can be confident that you're receiving superior cardiac care from a team that's among the best in the world.
Treatment options include:
Lifestyle changes
Based on your individual risk factors, we will develop a personalized plan to help you improve your heart health. Your plan may include lifestyle changes, such as:
Medication
In many cases, medicine can reduce symptoms and complications of heart disease. Managing heart disease with medication is a time-tested strategy that has helped people live better lives for years.
Every medicine has side effects and risks, but the risks are usually not as serious as leaving heart disease untreated.
What Can I Expect From Cardiology Services?
Our team of cardiologists will create a comprehensive plan to treat your condition and manage your risk of cardiovascular disease.
Before your visit
To prepare for your visit, you will be asked to provide:
- Name, address, and contact phone number.
- Insurance information.
- Relevant medical records and test results.
- A referral, if required by your health insurance company.
If you get a referral from your primary care practitioner or another physician, they may be able to provide your test results and medical records to our team.
During your visit
You'll meet with a doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant when you arrive for your first appointment. They will ask you about your medical history, family history, and lifestyle, and perform an exam.
We'll provide:
- A complete education session about heart disease risk factors.
- A tailored patient education packet for you to take home.
Your health care provider will explain your risk factors and how you may be able to manage them. Together, we will design and agree on a care plan.
Your care team may also:
- Order blood tests to learn more about your overall health.
- Schedule an imaging test to screen you for heart or vascular disease.
After your initial screening
Our team will schedule follow-up appointments as needed to check in with you. You should contact our office for questions about your cardiac risk reduction plan.
Last reviewed by a UPMC medical professional on 2024-10-23.