Chest Pain and Increased Heart Rate: When to Seek Medical Help

Chest pain and increased heart rate?

Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing chest pain frequently, primarily in the upper part of my chest.
I have undergone X-rays and an electrocardiogram, both of which showed no abnormalities.
However, my heart rate has recently been around 100 beats per minute, whereas it was 75 beats per minute during a health check two months ago.
I am unsure which specialist I should consult.
The persistent chest pain is affecting my mood, as I am constantly feeling discomfort.
Thank you.

Chen Xinpei, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/27

Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology

It is possible that you have mitral valve prolapse.
Please consult a cardiologist to determine if an echocardiogram is necessary, and seek their advice for further referrals or examinations.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2016/01/27

More Info

When experiencing chest pain and an increased heart rate, it's essential to take these symptoms seriously, especially if they are persistent or worsening. Based on your description, you have been experiencing chest pain in the upper part of your chest and an elevated heart rate of around 100 beats per minute, compared to a previous resting heart rate of 75 beats per minute. Although you have undergone X-rays and an electrocardiogram (ECG) that showed no abnormalities, the ongoing nature of your symptoms warrants further evaluation.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Chest Pain: Chest pain can arise from various causes, including musculoskeletal issues, gastrointestinal problems, anxiety, or cardiac conditions. Given that your pain is persistent and affects your mood, it’s crucial to explore its origin further. The fact that you have had normal imaging studies is reassuring, but it does not completely rule out cardiac issues, especially if the pain is severe or associated with other symptoms like shortness of breath, dizziness, or palpitations.

2. Increased Heart Rate: An elevated heart rate (tachycardia) can be a response to various factors, including stress, anxiety, caffeine intake, or underlying medical conditions. Since your heart rate has increased significantly from your previous check-up, it may be indicative of an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

When to Seek Medical Help
Given your symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional, specifically a cardiologist. Here are some reasons why:
- Persistent Symptoms: Since your chest pain is ongoing and affecting your quality of life, it is essential to have a thorough evaluation to determine the cause.

- Change in Heart Rate: The increase in your heart rate from 75 to 100 beats per minute, especially if it is accompanied by symptoms like chest pain, could indicate an underlying issue that needs to be investigated further.

- Emotional Impact: The persistent pain and discomfort are understandably affecting your mood and mental well-being. Addressing these symptoms can improve not only your physical health but also your emotional state.

Recommended Steps
1. Consult a Cardiologist: Schedule an appointment with a cardiologist who can perform a comprehensive evaluation. This may include additional tests such as a stress test, echocardiogram, or even a Holter monitor to assess your heart's rhythm over a more extended period.

2. Lifestyle Modifications: While waiting for your appointment, consider making some lifestyle changes that may help alleviate your symptoms. Reducing caffeine intake, managing stress through relaxation techniques, and ensuring adequate hydration can be beneficial.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their intensity, and any associated factors (like physical activity or stress). This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.

4. Emergency Care: If you experience severe chest pain, shortness of breath, or any other alarming symptoms, do not hesitate to seek emergency medical care. These could be signs of a more serious condition that requires immediate attention.

Conclusion
In summary, while your initial tests have not shown abnormalities, the combination of persistent chest pain and an increased heart rate is concerning enough to warrant further evaluation by a cardiologist. It’s essential to address these symptoms proactively to ensure your heart health and overall well-being. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to heart-related symptoms.

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