Most patients think about seeing a doctor when they don’t feel well but may put it off, or they may wait for an annual physical with their family care doctor to ask questions about any physical pains or symptoms. But how severe should the symptoms be before you see a heart specialist (cardiologist)? How can you tell if someone you love should see a cardiologist?

1. Physician Recommendation

If your family-care doctor recommends you see a cardiologist, do it. Don’t put it off. You’ll regret it.

2. Heart Pain

This is pretty much a given. You can see a full list of heart disease symptoms below. If you have any doubts about whether or not you are experiencing a symptom, however, get checked out.

3. Family History

If anyone in your family has or has had heart problems, you should be aware of heart disease symptoms and consider talking to a cardiologist about them.

4. High Total Cholesterol

Total cholesterol is the sum of all the cholesterol in your blood. The higher your total cholesterol, the greater your risk for heart disease (a cholesterol level of 200 mg/dL or higher).

5. High Blood Pressure

You have high blood pressure or a high systolic number. The systolic number on your blood pressure reading is the first number. (For example, if your reading is 120/80 (120 over 80), your systolic blood pressure is 120.) Learn how to monitor your blood pressure.

6. Are or Were a Smoker

Smoking is a huge risk factor for heart disease. It lowers the flow of oxygen to the heart and increases blood pressure, heart rate, and blood clotting as well as damages the cells lining the arteries.

7. Diabetic

Unfortunately diabetes can contribute to heart disease. If you experience symptoms of heart problems and are diabetic, you should see a cardiologist.

8. Difficult Pregnancy, Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is often a hidden risk factor for heart disease. The two times a woman is most likely to develop heart disease is during pregnancy or post-menopause.