Cardiology at Ochsner Lafayette General

Your heart is the hardest-working muscle in your body, powering blood flow to every organ and tissue. Each beat delivers oxygen and nutrients, helping your body function at its best.

Cardiology, the field of medicine dedicated to caring for the heart, helps ensure this vital organ stays strong and healthy for years to come.

What happens when heart health is compromised?

Cardiovascular disease occurs when blood flow is interrupted, affecting your body’s ability to function properly. When this happens, it’s essential to seek care from a cardiologist, an expert in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the heart and circulatory system.

What conditions are treated by cardiologists?

Cardiologists specialize in managing a wide range of heart-related issues, including:

• Arrhythmias: A healthy heart maintains a steady rhythm. Arrhythmias occur when the heart beats too fast, too slow or irregularly, disrupting its normal function.

• Coronary artery disease: Cholesterol can build up on artery walls, restricting blood flow. This can lead to a heart attack, which often causes symptoms such as weakness, shortness of breath or chest discomfort.

• Heart failure: When the heart can’t pump enough oxygen-rich blood to meet your body’s needs, it leads to heart failure. Patients may experience fatigue, trouble breathing and sudden weight gain.

• Hypertension (high blood pressure): Hypertension occurs when blood presses too forcefully against artery walls. If left untreated, it can result in serious complications such as stroke, vision loss, heart attack or even heart failure.

• Peripheral artery disease (PAD): Blockages in the blood vessels of your arms or legs can cause pain or cramping, along with symptoms such as cold feet and slow wound healing.

• Structural heart problems: Some heart conditions, such as structural abnormalities, are inherited. These issues can affect arteries, valves or other parts of the heart, requiring specialized care to manage or repair.

Cardiologists specialize in protecting and restoring heart health using advanced techniques and treatments. At Ochsner Lafayette General, our team’s expertise spans three key areas of care, each vital to addressing cardiovascular conditions with precision and innovation.  

What Do Cardiologists Do?  

Cardiologists play a critical role in diagnosing, managing, and treating heart conditions. Depending on their specialization, they may use advanced imaging, minimally invasive techniques, or traditional surgery to provide care tailored to each patient’s needs.  

• Invasive cardiologists: Invasive cardiologists focus on diagnosing and treating heart and blood vessel conditions using hands-on procedures. They perform surgeries that range from minimally invasive techniques to traditional open-heart surgeries, delivering life-saving solutions for complex cardiovascular diseases.   
• Interventional cardiologists: Interventional cardiologists are experts in catheter-based treatments. Using thin, flexible tubes, they address blocked arteries and restore blood flow by inserting stents or using balloon angioplasty. These minimally invasive procedures are designed to reduce recovery times and improve outcomes for patients.  
• Noninvasive cardiologists: Noninvasive cardiologists prioritize diagnosis and prevention. With the aid of advanced imaging technologies like echocardiograms and stress tests, they evaluate heart function and develop treatment plans that include lifestyle changes and medication to manage conditions without surgery.  

Taking the first step to prioritize your heart health is both important and empowering. At Ochsner Lafayette General, we guide you through the process with expertise, care, and a focus on your well-being. Knowing what to expect during your first cardiology visit can help you feel prepared and confident.

Your initial appointment with a cardiologist is an opportunity to understand and address your heart health. Here’s what you can expect:

• Thorough medical history review: Your cardiologist will ask about your personal and family medical history, including any symptoms you’ve experienced, lifestyle habits, and current medications. This information helps build a complete picture of your heart health.  
• Physical examination: A standard physical exam will include checking your heart rate, blood pressure, and other vital signs. Your doctor may also listen for irregularities in your heartbeat or any signs of cardiovascular conditions.  
• Screening tests: To provide a deeper understanding of your heart health, some basic blood tests may be ordered. These tests can help detect risk factors like high cholesterol or blood sugar levels. 

How to prepare for your first appointment

• Bring a list of questions: Write down any concerns or questions beforehand to discuss with your cardiologist. This could include symptoms you’ve noticed or lifestyle changes you’re wondering about.  
• Take notes: Use a notepad to jot down key details and recommendations during your visit. Having a written record can be especially helpful for follow-up care.  
• Bring a supportive companion: A family member or friend can offer emotional support and help you remember important details discussed during your consultation.