Cardiology
Dr. Dustin Johnson
Mainstreet Medical is happy to have Dr. Johnson come to us from Internal Medicine in Lethbridge.
What is a Cardiologist?
A cardiologist specializes in finding, preventing and treating the diseases of the heart and blood vessels (cardiovascular diseases).
To make a diagnosis, cardiologists may give physical exams, order tests — such an electrocardiogram (EKG), blood tests, holter monitor testing and exercise stress tests — as well as interpret tests. They may also prescribe medicine, recommend lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, reducing stress levels and managing weight.
Reasons to see a Cardiologist
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Shortness of Breath
Being unable to catch your breath can be a warning sign of a heart problem and should be addressed with a doctor immediately. If you have severe shortness of breath, you should call 911.
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Dizziness
Dizziness is a feeling of unsteadiness and can be described as a swirling or spinning sensation focused in the head. Dizziness can point to many different conditions, including heart disease or unstable blood pressure.
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Fainting Spells
Fainting can be described as a sudden loss of consciousness. It is caused by low blood flow to the brain. Lightheadedness and dizziness are often signals that someone might faint.
Fainting spells can be brought on by many causes, such as low blood sugar, panic attacks, anemia, or heart disease. You should address fainting spells with your physician, especially if you experience them regularly.
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Chest Pain
Chest pain — also known as angina — often occurs when the heart doesn’t get enough oxygen. The pain can sometimes be diverted to the shoulder, arm, and jaw. While not all chest pain is angina, it should always be addressed with your doctor.
Call 911 if you have any of these symptoms along with chest pain:
* A sudden feeling of squeezing, tightness, or pressure under your breastbone.
* Pain that spreads to your jaw, left arm, or back
* Sudden sharp chest pain with shortness of breath, especially following a period of inactivity.
* Nausea, dizziness, rapid heart rate or rapid breathing, confusion, ashen color, or excessive sweating
*Very low blood pressure or very low heart rate -
Fluttering Sensation in the Chest
Heart Flutters may be experienced as:
* Palpitations (fast beats)
* The heart “skipping a beat”
* Erratic thumping in the chest
* A racing heart
Fluttering sensations may relate to heart disease or disorders and should be discussed with your doctor.
