Find out when your symptoms mean it’s time to schedule a trip to the cardiologist’s office.
Are you noticing changes in your heart rhythm? Experiencing shortness of breath or chest tightness? Led by Dr. Jeffrey Chase and 
cardiologist Dr. Ahmet Sayan, our medical team in St. Thomas and St. Croix provides a full range of general medical and cardiac services to ensure that patients get the treatment that they need. Here are some signs that it’s time to see your local cardiologist.
Chest Pain
This is the symptom that most often brings people to our office in St. Thomas and St. Croix. Sure, there are non-cardiac reasons why you may be experiencing chest pain, however, more often than not, it is a symptom of a heart problem. Fortunately, our doctors can help you figure out what’s causing the pain.
However, if your chest pain is sudden and severe this could be a sign of a heart attack. This is extremely serious and requires immediate medical attention. If you think, that you might be having a heart attack, please call 911.
High Blood Pressure
Were you surprised to hear that your blood pressure was high during your last routine checkup or physical? Do you monitor your own blood pressure and notice that it's often elevated? High blood pressure doesn’t typically cause symptoms, so many people could have the condition and not even know it. This is why visiting your doctor once a year is imperative for strong long-term health. If you find out that your blood pressure is high, it’s important to follow-up with a cardiologist who can prescribe medication and lifestyle changes to lower your blood pressure.
Heart Palpitations
If your heart feels like it’s fluttering or beating too quickly you could be dealing with an arrhythmia (a condition that affects the rhythm of your heart) or coronary artery disease. Heart palpitations may also lead to shortness of breath, dizziness, or anxiety. If you notice that heart palpitations are happening regularly, it’s important to see your cardiologist.
High Cholesterol
Has your doctor told you that you have high cholesterol? This condition can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing the risk for a heart attack. One way to lower cholesterol is through a healthier diet and regular exercise; however, your doctor may also prescribe medications to help you get your cholesterol under control.
Concerned? Give Us a Call!
If it’s time to schedule a cardiology visit in St. Thomas or St. Croix, then call Virgin Island Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine today! Dial (340) 714-2845 for the St. Thomas office, or (340) 692-5000 for the St. Croix location.