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Heart health is crucial for overall well-being, and recognising when to seek professional help can make a significant difference. Here are seven signs that indicate you should consult a cardiologist (heart specialist):
1. Are you experiencing chest pain or discomfort?
If you are experiencing chest pain, pressure, or tightness in your chest, they can indicate serious heart issues, such as angina or even a heart attack. Do not dismiss these symptoms as stress or indigestion; they require immediate evaluation by a healthcare professional.
2. Do you have shortness of breath during routine activities?
Experiencing shortness of breath during daily tasks, such as climbing stairs or walking, can indicate an underlying heart problem. If you find yourself struggling to catch your breath during activities that previously felt comfortable, or if you experience shortness of breath at rest, it is crucial to consult a cardiologist for a thorough assessment.
3. Have you noticed irregular heartbeats or palpitations?
If you feel as though your heart is skipping beats, beating too fast, or fluttering, it could be a sign of arrhythmia. While occasional palpitations can be harmless, if they become more frequent or are accompanied by other symptoms like dizziness or chest pain, it is vital to discuss these with a heart specialist to determine their cause and the best course of action.
4. Are you experiencing unexplained fatigue or weakness?
Unusual tiredness or a feeling of weakness, especially if it occurs suddenly and interferes with your daily life, can be a sign of heart issues. This symptom might indicate your heart is not pumping blood effectively. Consulting a cardiologist can help identify the underlying cause and initiate appropriate treatment.
5. Have you experienced swelling in your legs, ankles, or feet?
Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet, known as oedema, may indicate heart failure or other cardiovascular issues. This occurs when your heart is unable to pump blood effectively, leading to fluid buildup.
6. Are you having high blood pressure?
Hypertension is often called the “silent killer” because it can cause significant damage to your heart and arteries over time, even without symptoms. If you have consistently high blood pressure, consult a cardiologist.
7. Do you have a family history of heart disease?
If you have a family history of heart disease, it is essential to be proactive about your heart health. Family history is a significant risk factor for heart disease. Discuss your family history with a heart specialist who can provide personalised advice, recommend screening options, and help you implement lifestyle changes to reduce your risk.
Book an Appointment at Pantai Hospitals
If you are experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or persistent fatigue, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. Ignoring these signs can lead to serious complications, but with early diagnosis and treatment, many heart conditions can be effectively managed.
Contact us to book an appointment at your nearest Pantai Hospital to schedule a heart screening or consultation with the team of expert heart specialists at Pantai Hospitals to begin your journey towards better heart health today.
Pantai Hospitals have been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.
