Left Chest Pain: Should You See a Doctor Now or Wait?

Left chest tightness and pain?

1.
Recently, I'm not sure if it's due to the weather changes, but for the past week or two, I've been experiencing a persistent dull pain in my left chest.
A few days ago, I also started feeling a similar dull pain a bit lower, near my left armpit.
2.
This month, I've suddenly felt my heart racing; I can't quite describe it, but it feels strange.
I used to think it was nothing serious, as I experienced it before, but I've noticed that the frequency has increased recently.
I have a congenital heart condition, and I'm unsure whether I should wait until summer vacation to discuss this with my attending physician, or if you think I should address it now.

Alysa, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/26

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, do you have congenital heart disease? What issues are you experiencing? The symptoms seem more like autonomic nervous system dysfunction triggered by changes in weather.
With the presence of two mitral valve prolapses, it would be advisable to continue monitoring.
If you still feel unwell or are concerned, please return for an earlier consultation.
Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.

Reply Date: 2020/04/26

More Info

Experiencing left chest pain, especially when accompanied by other symptoms such as discomfort in the left armpit and irregular heartbeats, can be concerning, particularly for someone with a history of congenital heart disease. Given the complexity of your symptoms and your medical history, it is advisable to seek medical attention sooner rather than later.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Chest Pain: Left-sided chest pain can arise from various causes, including musculoskeletal issues, gastrointestinal problems, and cardiac conditions. In your case, the pain radiating to the left armpit could suggest a more serious underlying issue, especially considering your congenital heart condition.

2. Irregular Heartbeats: The sensation of your heart "jumping" or feeling irregular can be indicative of arrhythmias. While some irregular heartbeats can be benign, they can also signal more serious conditions, particularly in patients with pre-existing heart conditions.

3. Frequency of Symptoms: The increasing frequency of these episodes is particularly concerning. If you have noticed that your symptoms are becoming more frequent or severe, this is a strong indicator that you should not wait until summer to consult your doctor.

Recommendations
1. Immediate Evaluation: Given your symptoms and medical history, it is crucial to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. An evaluation by a cardiologist would be appropriate, as they can perform the necessary tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, or stress tests, to assess your heart's function and rule out any serious conditions.

2. Emergency Care: If you experience severe chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or any other alarming symptoms, do not hesitate to seek emergency medical care. These could be signs of a heart attack or other serious cardiac events.

3. Follow-Up: Once you have seen a doctor and received an evaluation, it is essential to follow their recommendations. If they suggest further testing or monitoring, adhere to those guidelines closely.

Conclusion
In summary, while it may be tempting to wait until a more convenient time to address your symptoms, doing so could pose significant risks to your health, especially given your history of congenital heart disease. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to chest pain and heart-related symptoms. Seeking medical attention promptly can help ensure that any potential issues are identified and managed appropriately, allowing you to maintain your health and well-being.

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