When to See a Cardiologist? Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Much like a small engine, the heart works hard to keep us running every moment. However, like any engine, it requires regular service, check-ups, and sometimes urgent attention. The trouble with that? For some, the warning signs are often ignored until it is too late.

Then how will you know exactly when to visit the best cardiologist in Ranchi? Let’s break it down step-by-step.  

1. Discomfort in the chest is to be taken other than mere heartburn

If it feels like some old, weird tightness, pressure, or heavy burden is weighing your chest down, this is no spicily seasoned food haunting you, in fact, it is chest discomfort, especially when recurrently coming and typically painless or worsens with activity. At least you remain conscious of the discomfort in your chest—you ought to be checked out.

2. Shortness of breath-not a mere condition of unfitness

Climbing stairs should not be similar to a marathon run. If you huff and puff too much after the minimal exertion, your heart may have difficulties pumping blood efficiently. In severe conditions, waking up with a gasping breath could be a sign of heart failure.

3. Lightheadedness or fainting- the heart signals for “help”  

Lightheadedness or fainting is not just a dramatic showing; it is something that indicates that your heart is not pumping enough blood to your brain and is an essential red flag. Therefore, one should not dismiss such conditions as arising just because of “dehydration” unless verified by a doctor.

4. Hypertension – The Silent Culprit

Hypertension rarely presents with symptoms, hence its classification as a “silent killer.” When readings are persistently high, your heart will be forced to work hard, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. A cardiologist will support you in managing that before it escalates.

5. Irregular Heartbeat – Skipping More than One Beat

An occasional skipped beat from stress or caffeine may not be a big deal. However, it could be an arrhythmia if it races, flutters, or does a little dance without any prompting. Some arrhythmias are innocuous, while others can be life-threatening. It would be best to have it checked.    

6. Family History – Some Genetics Play a Role

Any time your family has a history of heart disease, it must set off alarm bells. Genetics can make you more susceptible even if you eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. A cardiologist will be able to assess your risk factors and recommend ways to protect yourself.

7. Smoking – Bad for the Heart

Smoking is the greatest enemy of the heart. Even if you quit smoking, the damage already may put you at risk. Regular checkups from the cardiologist can nip future problems in the bud.

Final Thoughts: Listen to Your Heart (Literally)

Your heart doesn’t have a lighted warning system like your car does, but it sends clear signals when in grief. The trick is to listen. If anything feels “off,” don’t ignore it or write it off as ageing, stress, or a busy life. A visit to a cardiologist may seem unnecessary, but once detected, heart problems can spare you a great deal of trouble later.

Featured Image Source: https://images.pexels.com/photos/5206956/pexels-photo-5206956.jpeg