Final answer:
A myocardial infarction should be evaluated by a cardiologist, a medical doctor specializing in heart diseases. Cardiologists are trained to diagnose heart conditions using various tests, such as ECGs, and manage treatment that involves medication and lifestyle adjustments.
Step-by-step explanation:
A myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, is a serious medical event where blood flow to a portion of the heart is blocked, leading to damage and death of the heart muscle. Upon experiencing symptoms of a myocardial infarction, the appropriate specialist to consult is a cardiologist. Cardiologists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases of the heart. They undergo at least 10 years of medical training, including four years of medical school, a residency, and a cardiology fellowship, before being eligible for a board certification exam.
In cases of an MI, a cardiologist will perform a physical examination and may use diagnostic tools such as electrocardiograms (ECG) and chest X-rays to confirm a diagnosis. Following diagnosis, the cardiologist will manage treatment, which could include medication and lifestyle changes such as a low-salt diet and a supervised exercise program.