Heart Issues: When to Seek Cardiology Help

Q: Heart Issues: When to Seek Cardiology Help

Hello： At your age, it is unlikely that you have any heart problems. <br>If the emergency examination is normal, it is mostly related to stress or emotions. <br>If similar symptoms occur repeatedly, you can consult a cardiologist.

Cardiac issues?

Hello, doctor.
Recently, I experienced something for the first time: difficulty breathing.
I wasn't wheezing, but my chest felt tight, and sometimes I found myself taking deep breaths to feel more comfortable.
A couple of times, my heart suddenly raced, and I felt like I was going to die, which made me panic.
I immediately went to the emergency room, where they performed an X-ray and an electrocardiogram.
The emergency physician said there was nothing wrong and suspected I might have autonomic nervous system dysregulation.
They prescribed medication to help with my emotions.
A few days later, I thought about seeing a cardiologist or a pulmonologist, but I couldn't get an appointment, so I went to a psychiatrist instead and explained my situation.
The doctor suspected symptoms of panic or anxiety, possibly related to insufficient serotonin in the brain, and ordered blood tests.
I want to ask the doctor because I'm still worried.
Sometimes I still feel the need to take deep breaths, and my chest feels a bit tight.
Given that I previously experienced sudden heart racing and felt like I was going to die, should I be concerned about a heart issue and see a cardiologist?

A Wei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/04/15

Dr. Huang Yinghe reply Cardiology

Hello: At your age, it is unlikely that you have any heart problems.
If the emergency examination is normal, it is mostly related to stress or emotions.
If similar symptoms occur repeatedly, you can consult a cardiologist.

Reply Date: 2021/04/15

More Info

When it comes to understanding heart issues and knowing when to seek help from a cardiologist, it’s essential to recognize the signs and symptoms that may indicate a potential cardiovascular problem. Based on your description, you have experienced episodes of chest tightness, difficulty breathing, and palpitations, which can be concerning.
Firstly, it’s important to understand that the heart is a complex organ, and various factors can contribute to symptoms like the ones you’ve described. Conditions such as anxiety, panic attacks, and stress can manifest physically, leading to sensations of chest tightness and rapid heartbeats. This is often due to the body’s fight-or-flight response, which can trigger an increase in heart rate and changes in breathing patterns.
However, it’s crucial to differentiate between anxiety-related symptoms and those that may indicate a cardiac issue. The fact that you have experienced sudden episodes of rapid heartbeat accompanied by feelings of impending doom is significant. While your initial evaluations, including X-rays and ECGs, did not reveal any immediate issues, it’s essential to continue monitoring your symptoms and seek further evaluation if they persist or worsen.

In your case, the recommendation to consult a cardiologist is prudent, especially considering your symptoms of chest discomfort and palpitations. A cardiologist can perform a comprehensive evaluation, which may include additional tests such as an echocardiogram, stress testing, or Holter monitoring to assess your heart's function and rhythm over time. These tests can help rule out any underlying heart conditions that may not have been detected in your initial assessments.

Moreover, it’s worth noting that certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of cardiovascular diseases, such as family history, smoking, diabetes, and high cholesterol levels. While you mentioned that you do not have chronic illnesses, it’s still essential to consider lifestyle factors that may contribute to your symptoms. Stress management, regular physical activity, and a balanced diet can play a significant role in maintaining heart health.

If your symptoms are indeed related to anxiety or panic attacks, working with a mental health professional may also be beneficial. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic approaches can help you manage anxiety symptoms effectively. Additionally, medications prescribed by your doctor can assist in alleviating anxiety-related symptoms.

In summary, while your initial evaluations did not indicate a serious heart condition, the presence of ongoing symptoms warrants further investigation. Consulting a cardiologist will provide you with a clearer understanding of your heart health and help you determine the best course of action. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to heart health, so don’t hesitate to seek the help you need. Remember, your well-being is paramount, and addressing these symptoms early can lead to better outcomes.

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