Which Specialist to See for Heart and Lung Symptoms?

Which specialty should I consult for my symptoms?

Several years ago, my hospital health check revealed homocysteine levels at 12.32 and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein at 3.08.
I did not follow up on this, but during my health check this February, my uric acid level was 8.9.
My uric acid levels have consistently been elevated during tests.
I visited a metabolic specialist, and there were no signs of thyroid issues or gout.
Additionally, I experience shortness of breath even when jogging short distances at a moderate pace, which seems excessive compared to others.
Another symptom I have is feeling dizzy when I stand up after squatting for a long time.
Should I go to a major hospital's pulmonology or cardiology department for further evaluation? Although I am still young, I do not want minor symptoms to develop into serious health issues.
I understand that many patients at major hospitals may have more severe conditions, but comparing circumstances seems irrelevant.
Thank you, doctor, for your response!

Wei, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/03/07

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, your uric acid level is 8.9.
You are on medication and managing your diet.
Jogging makes you relatively short of breath, which may be related to your lung capacity and physical fitness.
If you squat for a long time and feel dizzy when you stand up, it could be due to orthostatic hypotension.
If you are still concerned, consider visiting a cardiologist for further evaluation.
Take care from Changhua Hospital.

Reply Date: 2018/03/07

More Info

When experiencing symptoms related to the heart and lungs, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or dizziness, it's essential to consult the appropriate specialist to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. Given your symptoms and medical history, it would be prudent to see both a cardiologist and a pulmonologist, as these specialists can provide comprehensive evaluations of your heart and lung health.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Shortness of Breath: This can be caused by various factors, including cardiovascular issues, respiratory conditions, or even anxiety. In your case, since you mentioned that you experience shortness of breath during light physical activity, it could indicate an underlying heart or lung condition that needs to be evaluated.

2. Dizziness Upon Standing: This symptom, often referred to as orthostatic hypotension, can occur when there is a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing up. It can be related to dehydration, medication side effects, or cardiovascular issues. Given your history of elevated uric acid levels and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, it’s essential to rule out any cardiovascular concerns.

3. High Uric Acid Levels: While you have seen a metabolic specialist, high uric acid levels can sometimes be associated with cardiovascular risks. It’s important to monitor this and discuss it with your healthcare provider, as it can lead to gout or kidney issues if not managed properly.

Which Specialist to See?
- Cardiologist: A cardiologist specializes in diagnosing and treating heart-related conditions. Given your symptoms of chest pain and shortness of breath, it would be wise to have a thorough cardiac evaluation. This may include an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, or stress testing to assess your heart's function and rule out any potential issues such as arrhythmias or structural heart disease.

- Pulmonologist: If your symptoms suggest a respiratory issue, such as persistent shortness of breath or a history of lung problems, a pulmonologist can conduct tests like pulmonary function tests or imaging studies to evaluate your lung capacity and function.

Additional Considerations
- Lifestyle Factors: You mentioned that you experience symptoms while running, which could be exacerbated by factors such as dehydration, lack of conditioning, or even anxiety. It’s crucial to maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and gradually increase your physical activity level to improve your endurance.

- Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including when they occur, their severity, and any associated factors (like physical activity or stress). This information can be invaluable for your healthcare providers in diagnosing your condition.

- Follow-Up: Since you have a history of elevated uric acid and C-reactive protein, regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential. They can help monitor these levels and assess any potential risks associated with them.

Conclusion
In summary, given your symptoms and medical history, it is advisable to consult both a cardiologist and a pulmonologist. This dual approach will help ensure that any potential heart or lung issues are thoroughly evaluated and managed. Early intervention can prevent minor symptoms from escalating into more significant health problems, so seeking medical advice sooner rather than later is always a wise choice. Remember to communicate openly with your healthcare providers about all your symptoms and concerns to receive the most effective care.

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