Which Specialist Should I See for Chest Discomfort and Breathing Issues?

Please specify the department?

Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing a feeling of tightness in my chest, difficulty breathing, and I have to exert a lot of effort to breathe.
I also feel lightheaded, my hands and feet often feel numb, and my eyelids have been twitching intermittently for three weeks.
Which specialty should I see for these symptoms? Thank you.

Jiang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/27

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, you may need to see a cardiologist or a psychiatrist, as it seems to be caused by autonomic nervous system dysfunction.
Changhua Hospital is concerned about you.

Reply Date: 2016/04/27

More Info

If you are experiencing chest discomfort, difficulty breathing, dizziness, numbness in your limbs, and eyelid twitching, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. These symptoms can be indicative of various underlying health issues, some of which may require immediate intervention.

Given the nature of your symptoms, the first specialist you should consider seeing is a primary care physician (PCP) or a family doctor. They can perform an initial evaluation, including a physical examination and a review of your medical history. Your PCP can assess whether your symptoms are related to respiratory issues, cardiovascular problems, anxiety, or other conditions. Based on their findings, they may refer you to a specialist for further evaluation.

If your primary care physician suspects that your symptoms are related to your heart, they may refer you to a cardiologist. A cardiologist specializes in diagnosing and treating heart-related conditions. They can conduct tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, or stress tests to evaluate your heart's function and rule out any serious cardiac issues.

On the other hand, if your symptoms are more aligned with respiratory problems, you may be referred to a pulmonologist. This specialist focuses on lung and respiratory conditions and can perform tests such as pulmonary function tests or imaging studies like a chest X-ray or CT scan to assess your lung health.

Additionally, considering the dizziness and numbness in your limbs, it might be worthwhile to consult a neurologist. Neurologists specialize in disorders of the nervous system, and they can evaluate whether your symptoms are related to neurological issues.

It's also important to consider the possibility of anxiety or panic disorders, especially if your symptoms seem to worsen in stressful situations. In such cases, a consultation with a psychiatrist or a psychologist may be beneficial. They can help determine if anxiety is contributing to your physical symptoms and provide appropriate treatment options, which may include therapy or medication.

In summary, start with a visit to your primary care physician, who can guide you through the process of diagnosis and treatment. They will help determine the most appropriate specialist based on your symptoms and medical history. Remember, it is essential to address these symptoms promptly, as they can sometimes indicate serious health conditions. Do not hesitate to seek help, especially if your symptoms worsen or if you experience severe chest pain, shortness of breath, or other alarming signs. Your health and well-being are paramount, and early intervention can lead to better outcomes.

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