FAQ

While chest pain is the most common symptom of a heart attack, victims might suffer from other symptoms

• Shortness of breath
• Palpitations (irregular heartbeats)
• Quickened heartbeat
• Weak spells or dizziness
• Nausea
• Sweating
• Unusual tiredness, sometimes for days

The carotid arteries provide a “window” to the coronary arteries. Not only do they have similar risk factors – more importantly, the relationship between the atherosclerotic burden in a carotid artery and a coronary artery is the same as between any two coronary arteries. Thus carotid atherosclerosis provides a window to the degree of coronary atherosclerosis in an individual. The CIMT is an independent predictor of future cardiovascular events, including heart attacks, cardiac death, and stroke.

Arrhythmias are abnormal heart rhythms that are produced when the natural electrical conduction system of the heart malfunctions. Not all arrhythmias pose health risks. For instance, a temporary arrhythmia caused by alcohol, caffeine, or insomnia is not usually a cause for concern.

1. Heart pain – You may be feeling severe pressure, squeezing, pain or discomfort in the chest or a chest pain that becomes more intense. If you have any doubt about whether you are experiencing a symptom, please have it checked out by a cardiologist.

2. Breathless – You may experience shortness of breath or a reduction in what you were previously able to do. This may be a sign of heart disease.

3. Palpitation – You may feel a fast or irregular heartbeat. This may be associated with dizziness or fainting spells. This may indicate an underlying arrhythmia.

4. Family history – If anyone in your family has or has had heart problems, you should be aware of heart disease symptoms and consider talking to a cardiologist about them or perform an annual heart screening to ensure your vitals are in the healthy range.

5. High total cholesterol – Total cholesterol is the sum of all the cholesterol in your blood. The higher your total cholesterol, the greater your risk for heart disease (a cholesterol level of 200 mg/dL or higher, or an LDL of 130mg/dL or higher).

6. High blood pressure – You have high blood pressure or a high systolic number. The systolic number on your blood pressure reading is the first number. (For example, if your reading is 120/80 (120 over 80), your systolic blood pressure is 120.).

7. Starting a new exercise program – You are over the age of 40 and starting a new exercise program. You may already be working with a doctor on being more active, but a cardiologist can check your heart health and recommend exercises that would be good for your heart.

We want to make sure our cardiologist has sufficient time to speak with you and review your condition. As such, you are highly encouraged to make an appointment either through calling us at 8781 3488 or email us at enquiry@leslietayheart.com.sg