Building A Team
When approaching very important decisions concerning the treatment of Heart Failure, it is strongly advised to surround yourself with a team of experts. Depending on the stage and classification of Heart Failure, a patient needs to consult more than one physician about their options. Ideally, you want at least three experts helping you make important decisions about your future.
The following is a short explanation of the experts in their perspective fields and how they can help you.
First on the list is your family physician. Who knows your body and medical history better? This will also be the first person who recognizes a problem. It is easy for your personal physician to refer to you to a cardiologist. If your doctor fails to do so, contact one yourself. Most every community has a cardiac clinic. Search on-line or look in the phone book for a specialist.
What happens once you have seen a Cardiac Specialist?
You will have several choices at this point, depending on the extent of the Heart failure.
You may not need to go any further than a specialist, as medications such as ACE Inhibitors or Beta Blockers (SEE Glossary) may be able to solve your problem and keep Heart Failure at bay. But you may need to seek the advice of a heart surgeon, just to be sure.
You may require surgery. If so, you will be directed to a heart surgeon. There are many types of heart surgery and your heart surgeon will explore your options with you and your family. Try not to become confused with your options. Talk to your surgeon; ask questions, and read, read, read. The more you know, the better equipped you will be to make the right choice(s) for you.
Finally, you may be directed to an Electrophysiologist, who specializes in the heart’s electrical system and generally work in conjunction with heart surgeons. They are specifically trained in arrhythmias such as Atrial Fibrillation (SEE Glossary).
Seeking the advice of more than one expert will help you and your family make the right decisions. Take it one step at and time and weigh all your options.
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