Characters on TV shows aren't the most reliable source of information when it comes to heart conditions, yet many of us associate cardiac 
symptoms with what we see on the screen. In fact, you may never clutch your chest dramatically or even experience intense pain if there's an issue with your heart. Luckily, your St. Thomas and St. Croix cardiologist, Dr. Ahmet Sayan of Virgin Islands Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine, can identify subtle signs that may indicate a heart problem and offer treatment options.
Should I make an appointment with a St. Thomas or St. Croix cardiologist?
You may want to pay a visit to your cardiologist if you:
- Experience Chest Pain or Discomfort: Chest pain can come or go or may mimic heartburn. In some cases, you may only notice it when you exercise. If you experience severe chest pain, squeezing or pressure in your chest, nausea, vomiting, pain that extends to your arms, jaw, neck, or shoulders, or other possible signs of a heart attack, go to the emergency room immediately.
- Are Fatigued: A particularly grueling workweek or a recent illness may make you feel more tired than usual. However, if you've recently begun to feel very tired, weak, or dizzy for no obvious reason, it's a good idea to visit a cardiologist.
- Have a Family History of Heart Disease: Your cardiologist can help you evaluate your heart disease risk, spot early signs of heart disease and offer treatments.
- Suffer from Certain Chronic Health Conditions: Diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease, and high cholesterol can raise your risk of heart disease.
- Smoke: Smoking not only increases your risk of developing cancer but can also increase the likelihood of heart disease.
- Notice Shortness of Breath or Palpitations: Shortness of breath and palpitations can be signs of several heart conditions.
- Are Ready to Begin an Ambitious Exercise Program: It's always a good idea to get a clean bill of health from a cardiologist before you begin any intense exercise program, particularly if you're over 40.
Protect your health with a visit to the cardiologist. Make an appointment with Dr. Ahmet Sayan of Virgin Islands Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine, by calling (340) 714-2845 for the St. Thomas office or (340) 692-5000 for the St. Croix office.