Preparing for an appointment

Whether you start by seeing your primary care provider or get emergency care, you'll likely be referred to a doctor trained in heart conditions (cardiologist) for diagnosis and treatment.

What you can do

If possible, write down the following information and take it with you to your health care provider's appointment:

• Your symptoms, including those that seem unrelated to your heart, and when they began
• Important personal information, including major stresses or recent life changes and your medical history
• Medications, including vitamins and other supplements you take, including doses
• Questions to ask your health care provider

If possible, take along a family member or friend to help you remember the information you receive.

For bradycardia, basic questions to ask your health care provider include:

• What is likely causing my slow heart rate?
• What tests do I need?
• What's the most appropriate treatment?
• What are the possible complications?
• How will my heart be monitored?
• How often will I need follow-up appointments?
• How will other conditions I have or medications I take affect my heart problem?
• Do I need to restrict my activities?
• Are there brochures or other printed material I can have? What websites do you recommend?

Don't hesitate to ask other questions.

What to expect from your doctor

Your health care provider is likely to ask you questions, such as:

• Have you had fainting spells?
• Does anything, such as exercise, worsen your symptoms?
• Do you smoke?
• Are you being treated for heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or other conditions that can affect your heart?