Your heart works around the clock, but it is easy to take your cardiovascular health for granted until something does not feel quite right. Some heart conditions develop gradually and cause few noticeable symptoms at first, while others may produce signs that deserve prompt medical attention.
Knowing when to speak with a cardiologist can help you better understand your heart health, evaluate potential problems and determine whether additional testing or treatment may be appropriate.
Chest discomfort can have many causes, and not all chest pain is related to the heart. However, new, unexplained or recurring chest pain should never simply be ignored.
Chest discomfort associated with heart problems may feel like pressure, squeezing, tightness, heaviness or aching. It may also occur along with shortness of breath, sweating, nausea or discomfort that spreads to the arm, shoulder, back, neck or jaw.
Sudden or severe chest pain can be a medical emergency. If you believe you may be experiencing a heart attack, call 911 rather than waiting for a cardiology appointment.
Becoming winded after strenuous activity is normal. Shortness of breath that is new, worsening or occurring during activities that normally would not cause difficulty may deserve further evaluation.
Cardiovascular conditions can sometimes make it more difficult for the heart to efficiently circulate blood throughout the body. A cardiologist can review your symptoms and determine whether heart testing may help identify the cause.
Heart palpitations can feel as though your heart is racing, pounding, fluttering or skipping a beat. They can occur for many reasons, including exercise, stress and certain stimulants, but they can also be associated with an abnormal heart rhythm.
If palpitations happen frequently, are becoming more noticeable or are accompanied by dizziness, fainting, chest discomfort or shortness of breath, they should be evaluated.
Occasional lightheadedness can have many causes, but repeated dizziness, unexplained fainting or feeling as though you are about to pass out may warrant cardiovascular evaluation.
Changes in heart rhythm, blood pressure and other cardiovascular issues can sometimes contribute to these symptoms. Your cardiologist may recommend testing based on your medical history and the circumstances surrounding the episodes.
Pay attention when everyday activities suddenly become more difficult.
If walking, climbing stairs, exercising or completing normal daily activities causes unusual fatigue, chest discomfort or shortness of breath, mention the change to your healthcare provider. A noticeable decline in exercise tolerance can provide important information about how your heart is functioning.
You do not need to wait until you have obvious symptoms to think about your heart health.
Your primary care provider may recommend seeing a cardiologist based on your personal health history, family history or cardiovascular risk factors. A cardiology evaluation can help determine whether additional monitoring, lifestyle changes, medication or diagnostic testing should be considered.
Your first appointment typically begins with a conversation. Your cardiologist will want to understand your symptoms, medical history, medications, family history and any previous testing.
Depending on your individual situation, additional cardiovascular testing may be recommended. Tests such as an electrocardiogram (EKG), echocardiogram, stress test or heart rhythm monitor can provide different information about how your heart is functioning.
You know when something feels different in your body. While many symptoms ultimately have causes unrelated to heart disease, it is better to discuss persistent or concerning changes with a healthcare professional than to simply wonder about them.
Baltimore Heart Associates provides cardiovascular evaluation, diagnostic testing, heart-rhythm care and ongoing cardiology services for patients throughout the Baltimore area.
If you have concerns about your heart health, request an appointment with Baltimore Heart Associates at one of our convenient locations in Baltimore, Pikesville or Westminster.
This article is intended for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms of a medical emergency, call 911.