Heart-Related Symptoms: When to Seek Further Testing

Cardiac issues

Hello, doctor.
Three days ago, I started experiencing intermittent numbness and pain in the fingertips of my left hand.
Last night, the numbness persisted for several hours, spreading from my fingertips to my upper arm.
I have been concerned that this might be atypical angina.
This numbness and pain can also occur at rest.
This morning, I woke up to intermittent numbness and pain again.
I have experienced chest tightness after showering, a sensation of a foreign body in my throat at rest, and occasional inexplicable palpitations.
Additionally, I have felt a slight electrical sensation in the upper and lower teeth on both sides.
This has made me fearful that I might have heart disease or be at risk for a myocardial infarction.
Over the past two days, I have taken heart medication, but the symptoms have not improved.
When I experienced hand numbness, I visited a clinic for an electrocardiogram (ECG) and echocardiogram, and the doctor informed me that my heart appeared normal.
Although I currently do not have hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or diabetes, and my weight is within a normal range, I have a history of prolonged sitting, staying up late, and lack of exercise.
Should I undergo a stress test or myocardial perfusion imaging to determine if there are symptoms of myocardial ischemia? Also, could long-term unilateral nasal congestion (for over two years) lead to heart or cardiovascular complications?

Wei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/05/22

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, your current symptoms are not related to angina, and you have no risk factors.
The pain you are experiencing is generally not associated with atypical angina, and considering your young age, there's no need to worry too much.
You may consider taking B vitamins or visiting a neurology clinic for further evaluation.
Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.

Reply Date: 2022/05/22

More Info

When it comes to understanding heart-related symptoms, particularly those that may suggest ischemic heart disease or other cardiac conditions, it's crucial to recognize the significance of your symptoms and when to seek further testing. Based on your description, you are experiencing a range of symptoms including intermittent numbness and pain in your left fingertips and arm, chest discomfort, a sensation of an object in your throat, and episodes of palpitations. These symptoms can understandably lead to concerns about potential heart issues, especially given your history of a sedentary lifestyle and irregular sleep patterns.

Firstly, the symptoms you describe, particularly the left-sided numbness and pain, can indeed be concerning. While these symptoms can be associated with anxiety or musculoskeletal issues, they can also indicate cardiac problems, especially if they are accompanied by chest pain or discomfort. The fact that you have experienced these symptoms at rest, along with sensations of palpitations and discomfort in the chest, warrants further investigation.

You mentioned that you have already undergone an electrocardiogram (ECG) and echocardiogram, which did not show any abnormalities. This is a positive sign, as it suggests that there are no immediate structural issues with your heart. However, given the persistence and nature of your symptoms, it may be prudent to consider additional testing, such as a stress test or myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI). These tests can help assess how well your heart is functioning under stress and whether there are any areas of the heart that are not receiving adequate blood flow, which could indicate ischemia.

Regarding your question about whether long-term nasal congestion could lead to heart or cardiovascular issues, while nasal congestion itself is not directly linked to heart disease, it can contribute to other health issues. Chronic nasal congestion can lead to sleep disturbances, such as sleep apnea, which is a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Sleep apnea can cause intermittent hypoxia (low oxygen levels) during sleep, which can strain the heart over time.

In summary, while your initial tests have not indicated any significant heart issues, the combination of your symptoms and your lifestyle factors suggests that further evaluation may be beneficial. A stress test or myocardial perfusion imaging could provide more insight into your heart's health, particularly in assessing for any ischemic changes that may not have been evident during your initial evaluations. Additionally, addressing lifestyle factors such as increasing physical activity, improving sleep hygiene, and managing stress can have a positive impact on your overall cardiovascular health.
If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you experience new symptoms such as severe chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, and taking proactive steps to understand and address your symptoms is crucial.

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