BBC - Health - Conditions

27 November 2009
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Patsy Westcott describes some of the people you may encounter if you've had a heart attack or surgery, or have been diagnosed with heart disease.

Cardiologist

A specialist doctor who's trained and experienced in the investigation, diagnosis and treatment of heart disease. A cardiologist performs tests such as echocardiography and ECG, prescribes drugs to treat coronary heart disease and does procedures such as angioplasty.

Cardiovascular surgeon

If the cardiologist thinks you may benefit from heart surgery, you'll be referred to a cardiovascular surgeon who's trained and experienced in performing heart operations.

General practitioner

If you've been diagnosed with heart disease, your GP can prescribe drugs, carry out regular blood pressure checks and may offer other services such as smoking cessation groups. Your GP is also the gateway to specialist services.

Nurses

Nurses will be involved in various different aspects of your care. Specialised cardiac nurses may work in the hospital or community and are often part of the rehabilitation team following a heart attack or heart surgery. They're experienced in dealing with heart disease and can advise on diet, exercise and other lifestyle measures.

Dietician

A dietician will help you make adjustments to your diet and may be part of the rehabilitation team.

Physiotherapist

A physiotherapist is part of the rehabilitation team and will devise a suitable exercise programme if you're recovering from a heart attack or surgery.

Occupational therapist

Occupational therapists will help you carry adapt to any major changes imposed by a heart attack and help you carry out daily tasks and get back to work.

Clinical psychologist

Psychologists help with emotional problems arising from a heart attack or diagnosis of heart disease.

Social worker

The local authority social services department can help you access services such as meals on wheels, adaptations and aids, home care and day services, respite care and state benefits.

Voluntary services

Charities such as the British Heart Foundation and local support groups can help in a number of different ways.

This page was last reviewed in March 2009.

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