Question: I have been having chest pains (both left & right) for over 3 weeks now. I went to urgent care and emergency department last week. EKG showed a sinus arrhythmia abnormality. Blood test did not reveal heart attack protein. Lungs appeared normal in x-ray. I have been suspected for marfans syndrome as a child. ER doctor confirmed marfan like qualities. Chest x-ray did not reveal abnormalities in aorta. ER doctor said I could get a CT scan, but in his opinion my risk of cancer from CT scan outweighed my risk of an aortic dissection. ER doctor told me inflammation was likely cause of chest pains, recommended I take aleve and re-asses in 3-5 days. Pain has been better, but still present occasionally since then. I have started a log of pain and also notice that my heart appeared to "flutter" about 4 times in the past week. About 5% of time pain is brought on my deep breath, but normally it is just the pain and not associated with breathing. Pain is either like a sun-burn pain or a feeling of pressure. I currently do not have a primary care physician. Since this has started I have started search for a care physician, but so far all doctors (20+) I have called are not accepting new patients. Should I see a cardiologist or another specialist? What are my next steps? As I don't have a primary, I have no where to go to get a referral for a specialist. Located in Brunswick, ME. Thanks, XXXXXXX

Thank you Dr. Sharka for your response. I really appreciate you taking the time to review my question.

I am in between primary care doctors at the moment and have no way to get a referral to see a cardiologist. Is there anyway you could make a referral for me? There are a number of cardiologists at a nearby hospital. The number there is 207-729-7939.

If you are not able to make a referral, I appreciate your help and your advice.

Thanks,
XXXXXXX

Thank you Dr. Iliri,

I appreciate your help.

I have often wanted to travel to Albania. Once COVID is over maybe I will make the the trip to see your country.

Thanks,
XXXXXXX