Chest Pain: When to See a Specialist for Thyroid Issues

What’s going on?

Hello: Recently, I occasionally experience sharp pain in the area above my left chest, connecting to the armpit, and sometimes the pain radiates to my back.
Which specialty should I consult? (P.S.
I had an impact to the center of my chest from a bathtub over a decade ago but did not see a doctor at that time.)

Shuǐjiǎo, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/11/19

Dr. Wu Jingtang reply Breast and Thyroid

Hello, for conditions such as neuropathic pain or myofascial inflammation, it is common to consult orthopedic, neurology, or breast surgery specialists for further diagnosis.
Wishing you peace and health! Dr.
Wu Ching-Tang, Attending Surgeon, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health.

Reply Date: 2009/11/19

More Info

When experiencing chest pain, especially if it radiates to the back or other areas, it is crucial to take it seriously. Given your description of the pain occurring in the upper left chest area and extending to the back, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional, particularly a cardiologist. Chest pain can have various causes, including cardiac issues, musculoskeletal problems, gastrointestinal conditions, and even anxiety.
In your case, the history of trauma to the chest from a bathtub incident over a decade ago could potentially be relevant, especially if there was any underlying injury that may have contributed to your current symptoms. However, it is essential to rule out any serious cardiac conditions first.
A cardiologist will likely perform a thorough evaluation, which may include an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, and possibly a stress test or imaging studies to assess the heart's function and rule out coronary artery disease (CAD) or other cardiac issues. Given your symptoms, it is also important to consider other factors such as your age, lifestyle, and any risk factors for heart disease, such as family history, smoking, diabetes, or hypertension.

If the cardiologist determines that your heart is functioning well and there are no signs of ischemia or other cardiac issues, you may then be referred to another specialist, such as a pulmonologist or an orthopedic doctor, to explore other potential causes of your pain, including musculoskeletal issues or lung-related problems.

Additionally, if you have any thyroid issues or concerns, it might be worth discussing these with your primary care physician or an endocrinologist. Thyroid dysfunction can sometimes manifest with symptoms that may overlap with cardiac issues, such as palpitations or changes in energy levels, but it is less likely to cause localized chest pain.

In summary, the best course of action is to see a cardiologist first to rule out any serious heart conditions. If your heart is healthy, further evaluation by other specialists may be warranted based on the findings. Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to chest pain, so seeking medical advice promptly is essential.

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