FAQ
Cardiology & Heart Care FAQs
FOR Crestview, FL; Milton, FL; Andalusia, AL; Opp, AL; & beyond.
Find answers to common questions about heart care, AFib treatment, testing, and when to see a cardiologist at Okaloosa Heart & Vascular Center by reading these frequently asked questions.
When should I see a heart doctor?
Consider making an appointment with a heart doctor if you have recurring palpitations, an irregular heartbeat, dizziness, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue, especially if symptoms are new or getting worse. A cardiologist can review your symptoms and health history and determine whether testing or follow-up is appropriate. Call 911 for chest pain or pressure, severe trouble breathing, fainting, or possible stroke symptoms.
What are common signs of atrial fibrillation?
AFib can cause a racing or irregular heartbeat, fluttering in the chest, dizziness, weakness, fatigue, or shortness of breath. Some people have no noticeable symptoms. If you’re concerned about a possible irregular rhythm, contact a cardiologist for an evaluation rather than trying to diagnose it yourself.
How is AFib diagnosed?
A cardiologist may review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and use an electrocardiogram (EKG) to check your heart’s electrical activity. Depending on your symptoms, additional monitoring or testing may be recommended to help identify an irregular rhythm and guide care.
What does AFib treatment involve?
AFib treatment depends on your health, symptoms, and individual circumstances. Options may include medication, cardioversion, or a procedure such as catheter ablation. Your cardiologist can explain the potential benefits and risks of the options that may be appropriate for you. Okaloosa Heart & Vascular Center provides AFib care and related procedures.
What is atrial fibrillation ablation?
Atrial fibrillation ablation is a catheter-based procedure that targets areas of heart tissue involved in triggering abnormal electrical signals. It may be considered as part of an AFib care plan. Okaloosa Heart & Vascular Center performs catheter ablation at Fort Walton Beach Medical Center or North Okaloosa Medical Center; your care team can discuss whether it may be suitable for you.
What heart tests might a cardiologist recommend?
Depending on your symptoms and health history, your cardiologist may recommend tests such as an EKG, echocardiogram, stress test, vascular study, or heart rhythm monitoring. The right tests depend on what your clinician needs to evaluate, and your care team can explain what each test involves.
Which communities does Okaloosa Heart & Vascular Center serve?
Okaloosa Heart & Vascular Center provides heart and vascular care for patients from Fort Walton Beach, FL; Navarre, FL; Gulf Breeze, FL; Destin, FL; Miramar Beach, FL; Chipley, FL; Panama City, FL; Niceville, FL; Freeport, FL; DeFuniak Springs, FL; Crestview, FL; Milton, FL; Pace, FL; Valparaiso, FL; Shalimar, FL; Marianna, FL; Lynn Haven, FL; Andalusia, AL; Opp, AL; and Brewton, AL. The center has offices in Crestview, Destin, Niceville, and Fort Walton Beach.
How do I schedule an appointment with a cardiologist?
Contact Okaloosa Heart & Vascular Center to ask about scheduling at one of its offices. Share your symptoms, relevant medical history, and any recent test results with the care team so they can help direct your request. For an emergency, call 911.
