genetic heart problems

[Ellen]

My husband is adopted but it is known that several men in his biological family died early because of heart problems.  We don't know the exact nature of the heart ailments.  My husband is going to see his internist/primary care doctor to ask for an evaluation to see if his heart is okay right now.  What kind of tests should be done to fully evaluate his heart health given that he has a genetic risk factor?  Also, should he necessarily see a cardiologist or is this something the internist should be able to evaluate fully?  Thank you.

[John L. Wesley]

Don't waste time with an internist, go directly to a cardiologist.

By the time an internist gets done with you, and sends you to a cardiologist, you could be dead.

As a Paramedic I have seen patients being treated by internists, who desperatly needed a cardiologist and did'nt get one.

Tell Your GP to refer you directly

[Cleveland Clinic, MD]

Dear Ellen,
Depending on the doctor an internist should be able to evaluate him.  He will probably get an EKG and perhaps some blood work such as cholesterol.  If he finds anyting on exam he may order an echocardiogram.  It would be helpful to have as much of the family history as possible to help guide testing.