I notice when my husband is getting ready for work in the morning that he is breathing heavily. He has also been complaining of numbness and tingling in his arm. It usually occurs at night and he feels pain in the morning. The most recent symptom is indigestion especially after drinking coffee. He is 37 , nonsmoker but overweight. I am very concerned. He has an appointment with a gastroenterologist this week. Should he see a cardiologist? What can this be? Renee in NJ
Hi. I can understand your concern. Ideally ECG and 2d echo should be done first in your case. If both are normal than no need to worry about heart diseases. HERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) can cause similar kind of chest pain. HERD is due to laxity of gastroesophageal sphincter. Because of this the acid of the stomach tends to come up in the esophagus and cause central chest pain and nausea. He can take proton pump inhibitor. But along with Chat Doctor.  Avoid stress and tension. Avoid hot and spicy food. Avoid junk food. Avoid large meals, instead take frequent small meals. Quit smoking and alcohol if you have these habits. Go for walk after meals. Keep 2-3 pillows under head in the bed to prevent reflux. Lose weight if you are obeseDont worry, you will be alright. Hope I have solved your query. Wish you good health. Thanks.