Chest pain results from numerous conditions ranging from less severe digestive disorders to severe heart diseases. It is necessary to know when you need to see a cardiologist so that you can get the right treatment on time. You have to be able to discern the difference between the mere discomfort in the chest area and the chest pain that is indicative of a medical complication. Here is a list of situations that require you to visit a doctor if you are experiencing chest pain:
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Sudden and Severe Chest Pain
If you have sudden and severe chest discomfort, especially if the pain is a weight or pressure-like sensation, get medical assistance. Such kind of pain can be related to a heart attack or other severe illnesses. It may develop suddenly and may also intensify rapidly. If the pain disappears after a few minutes, seek medical advice to eliminate other severe conditions.
Pain Due To Stress or Anxiety
Stress or anxiety can cause tightness or discomfort in the chest area. Even though stress-related chest pain may be relieved by relaxing, it may also signal a deeper problem. If the pain persists or even increases, visit a doctor for a consultation. Sometimes, stress may make heart conditions worse or cause other issues.
Chest Discomfort With an Irregular Heartbeat
If you experience chest pain accompanied by swelling of the legs or a rapid heartbeat, this may be an indication of heart failure. Pain in the limbs is a sign of edema, which is caused by fluid retention and may be due to poor heart pumping. Chest pain, along with a rapid or abnormal heartbeat, can be a sign of heart arrhythmia. If not addressed quickly, further complications may occur.
Chest Discomfort in Diabetics
If a person has diabetes or heart disease, any chest pain that has no apparent cause should be treated by a doctor. Diabetes patients are likely to suffer from a ‘silent’ heart attack, which involves chest pain as a symptom. Mild chest discomfort is also likely to be an indication of heart disease in those with these conditions. Visiting a cardiologist for a checkup helps prevent possible heart attacks. They will address small issues before they escalate into life-threatening problems.
Pain After an Injury
Any pain in the chest area after an accident or injury of some kind should not be disregarded. It may be a minor injury, but the pain could be due to internal injury to organs, bones, or muscles in the chest. Trauma pain could be suggestive of a fractured rib, a contusion on the lung, or an internal hemorrhage.
Work With a Reputable Cardiologist
Chest pain has many causes, and some symptoms suggest a more life-threatening condition. Whether it is sudden, persistent shortness of breath or long-term discomfort, seek medical attention when you are uncertain. Much can be done at an early stage to diagnose and treat conditions that may be fatal. Seek medical advice from a cardiologist if you are experiencing chest pain or discomfort today.
