Cardiology
Cardiology is the medical treatment of diseases of the heart and parts of the circulatory system. Cardiologists are the doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating these conditions.
Heart care and diagnostics in Highlands, North Carolina
We give your heart the support it needs to carry you through life.
At Highlands-Cashiers Hospital, our cardiovascular doctors and heart specialists provide a patient-centered approach to care. They combine the latest diagnostic tools, such as coronary calcium scans, with heart-healthy tips and strategies.
Related specialties
Learn more about our related specialties.
Cardiovascular conditions we treat
Your heart works hard every day, and over time, that can eventually cause problems. Some of these can include:
- Aortic aneurysm
- Aortic stenosis
- Arrhythmia
- Atrial fibrillation (AFib)
- Cardiovascular disease
- Complex valve disease
- Heart attack
- Heart failure
- Myocarditis
Our cardiology services
Through a combination of rehabilitation services and diagnostics, our committed specialists design a customized treatment plan to help improve your heart health.
Types of heart testing and imaging we offer
To better understand your heart health, our specialists might use a host of different diagnostic tests and tools. We hope to ease any feelings of discomfort and deliver an individualized plan of care.
Coronary calcium scan
This special computerized tomography (CT) scan looks for calcium deposits in coronary arteries, and can show coronary artery disease before you exhibit symptoms. The results of this test can determine your risk for heart attacks or strokes, providing essential information that helps your care team customize your treatment plan.
Echocardiogram
Also known as a cardiac ultrasound, an echocardiogram uses sound waves to produce pictures of your heart, which can show blood flow through your heart and heart valves. Our specialists study the pictures for signs of heart disease and other conditions.
Holter monitoring
A small, wearable device, the Holter monitor records your heart's rhythm, and can determine your risk for irregular heartbeats, or arrhythmias. Our specialists might recommend this test if a traditional electrocardiogram does not provide enough information about your heart's condition. In the case of infrequent, irregular heartbeats, we might then use a cardiac event monitor.
Stress testing
The cardiac stress test is an important diagnostic tool that measures how well your heart pumps blood and whether it receives adequate blood supply. Our specialists measure your blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen levels, while you walk on a treadmill or ride a stationary bike. They can determine if any of the symptoms you're experiencing, such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath or even dizziness, can be reproduced during exercise.
Cardiac rehabilitation
If you've experienced any type of heart issue, cardiac rehabilitation can help you recover and get stronger. Your heart rehabilitation treatment may involve collaboration with your physician, education about risk factors, medically supervised exercise, as well as group support and consultations.
Our skilled specialists support you to regain control of your health, helping you:
- Improve your blood pressure
- Increase your capacity for exercise
- Lessen dependence on medication
- Lessen the frequency of chest pain
- Lessen the severity of chest pain
- Lose weight
- Lower your cholesterol