What symptom, especially if accompanied by pain radiating to the jaw or arm, is a critical trigger for cardiology referral?

Answer

Unexplained, persistent chest pain

While primary care providers manage long-term risk factors, certain acute or persistent symptoms demand immediate specialist consultation with a cardiologist because they signal potential underlying serious cardiac disease. Unexplained and persistent chest pain stands out as perhaps the most critical trigger. When this discomfort manifests as pressure, squeezing, or tightness, especially when it radiates outward to structures like the arm or the jaw, it raises high suspicion for cardiac ischemia or a more acute event. Other concerning signs prompting referral include chronic shortness of breath (dyspnea), unexplained persistent fatigue when combined with other symptoms, and frequent episodes of palpitations indicating potential electrical instability that requires immediate expert evaluation.

What symptom, especially if accompanied by pain radiating to the jaw or arm, is a critical trigger for cardiology referral?

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