What should I do while waiting for my cardiology appointment on the 30th?

What to Do While Waiting for Your Cardiology Appointment

While waiting for your cardiology appointment on the 30th, you should monitor your symptoms closely, call 9-1-1 immediately if you experience chest discomfort/pain that is unimproved or worsening after 5 minutes, and take one dose of nitroglycerin (if previously prescribed) for chest pain symptoms. 1

Symptom Monitoring and When to Seek Emergency Care

• If you experience chest discomfort or other symptoms suggestive of a heart attack (shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, dizziness), do not wait for your scheduled appointment - call 9-1-1 immediately 1
• For chest discomfort/pain lasting longer than 15-20 minutes, seek emergency care immediately 1
• If you have previously been prescribed nitroglycerin, take only one dose for chest discomfort; if symptoms are not improved or worsen after 5 minutes, call 9-1-1 1
• If symptoms improve with one dose of nitroglycerin, you may take up to three doses (one every 5 minutes), but still call 9-1-1 if symptoms don't completely resolve 1

Medication Management

• Continue taking all your prescribed cardiac medications as directed 1
• If you haven't been prescribed aspirin previously, do not self-medicate without medical advice 1
• If you have been advised to take aspirin for suspected cardiac symptoms, use non-enteric coated aspirin (162-325 mg) as it has more rapid absorption 1

Activity Recommendations

• Limit physical exertion that triggers symptoms 1
• Rest if you experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest discomfort, or unusual fatigue 1
• Avoid activities that have previously triggered cardiac symptoms 1
• Consider keeping a symptom journal to share with your cardiologist at your appointment, noting when symptoms occur and what triggers them 1

Preparation for Your Appointment

• Make a list of all your current medications (including over-the-counter drugs and supplements) to bring to your appointment 1
• Write down your specific symptoms, when they started, what makes them better or worse, and how they affect your daily activities 1
• Gather any previous cardiac test results or medical records to bring with you 1
• Prepare questions you have for your cardiologist about your symptoms and concerns 1

Warning Signs Requiring Immediate Medical Attention

• Chest discomfort/pain at rest lasting more than 20 minutes 1
• Hemodynamic instability (dizziness, lightheadedness, feeling faint) 1
• Recent syncope (fainting) or presyncope (near-fainting) 1
• Shortness of breath with minimal exertion or at rest 1
• New or worsening symptoms in patients with known heart disease 1

Important Considerations

• Do not drive yourself to the hospital if experiencing cardiac symptoms - call 9-1-1 1
• Emergency medical services can begin evaluation and treatment immediately, which significantly improves outcomes 1
• Many heart attacks present without classic chest pain, particularly in women, elderly patients, and those with diabetes 2
• If you have anxiety about your cardiac symptoms, consider using relaxation techniques while waiting for your appointment, but do not dismiss concerning symptoms as "just anxiety" 1