{"id":274,"date":"2026-07-20T14:44:21","date_gmt":"2026-07-20T14:44:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/marklandwood.ca\/blog\/?p=274"},"modified":"2026-07-20T14:50:38","modified_gmt":"2026-07-20T14:50:38","slug":"chest-pain-palpitations-or-shortness-of-breath-when-to-get-a-cardiac-assessment","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/marklandwood.ca\/blog\/chest-pain-palpitations-or-shortness-of-breath-when-to-get-a-cardiac-assessment\/","title":{"rendered":"Chest Pain, Palpitations, or Shortness of Breath? When to Get a Cardiac Assessment"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"572\" src=\"https:\/\/marklandwood.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Untitled-design-35-1024x572.png\" alt=\"Chest Pain, Palpitations, or Shortness of Breath? When to Get a Cardiac Assessment\" class=\"wp-image-277\" srcset=\"https:\/\/marklandwood.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Untitled-design-35-1024x572.png 1024w, https:\/\/marklandwood.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Untitled-design-35-300x167.png 300w, https:\/\/marklandwood.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Untitled-design-35-768x429.png 768w, https:\/\/marklandwood.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Untitled-design-35.png 1376w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-audio\"><audio controls src=\"https:\/\/marklandwood.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Is_it_heart_trouble_or_just_anxiety.mp3\"><\/audio><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Maybe you noticed a flutter in your chest while climbing the stairs. Perhaps you felt a tight pressure that came and went, or suddenly found yourself short of breath for no obvious reason.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When something like this happens, it is natural to wonder: Is this an emergency? Is it harmless? Or is it somewhere in between-serious enough to have checked, but not necessarily a reason to panic?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These are among the most common and anxiety-provoking health questions people search for online. That is understandable because symptoms involving the heart can range from completely harmless to medically urgent. The difference often comes down to details that general health articles do not always address.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This guide explains when cardiac symptoms require immediate <a href=\"https:\/\/marklandwood.ca\/\">emergency care etobicoke<\/a>, when a non-emergency medical assessment may be appropriate, and what you can expect during a cardiac evaluation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When to Seek Emergency Care Immediately<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before discussing anything else, it is important to recognize the symptoms that should never be ignored.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately if you experience:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Severe or crushing chest pain or pressure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Chest pain that spreads to the arm, jaw, neck, shoulder, or back<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Chest pain accompanied by sweating, nausea, or lightheadedness<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sudden or severe shortness of breath, especially while resting<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fainting or feeling as though you are about to faint, particularly with chest discomfort<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A rapid or irregular heartbeat accompanied by chest pain, confusion, or difficulty breathing<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you are experiencing any of these symptoms right now, stop reading and seek emergency care immediately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The information below is intended for symptoms that are concerning but do not appear to be an immediate emergency-the kind that may come and go, leaving you unsure whether you should book an appointment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When Symptoms Feel Real but Unclear<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many people searching for information about cardiac symptoms are not in the middle of a medical emergency. More often, they experienced something unusual a few days ago or have noticed the same symptom several times over a few weeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It might be a flutter that lasted only a few seconds. You may feel unusually winded after climbing stairs that never used to bother you. Perhaps you noticed tightness in your chest that disappeared after a few minutes and has not returned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is where uncertainty often takes over. The symptom does not seem severe enough for the emergency room, but it also does not feel like something you should completely ignore. Without a clear next step, it is easy to wait and hope it goes away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why \u201cWait and See\u201d Should Still Be an Informed Decision<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Monitoring a mild symptom can sometimes be medically appropriate. However, that decision is best made after speaking with a healthcare professional rather than simply waiting because you are unsure what else to do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some common causes of palpitations, chest tightness, or breathlessness are relatively harmless. Stress, anxiety, dehydration, poor sleep, and too much caffeine can all produce symptoms that feel cardiac.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In other cases, the symptoms may be related to the heart\u2019s structure, electrical rhythm, blood pressure, or valve function. These conditions are often easier to manage when they are identified early.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The goal is not to assume the worst, but it is also not to dismiss what you are feeling. A proper medical assessment can replace uncertainty with reliable information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common Non-Emergency Causes of Cardiac-Like Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"572\" src=\"https:\/\/marklandwood.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Untitled-design-36-1024x572.png\" alt=\"Chest Pain, Palpitations, or Shortness of Breath? When to Get a Cardiac Assessment\" class=\"wp-image-279\" srcset=\"https:\/\/marklandwood.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Untitled-design-36-1024x572.png 1024w, https:\/\/marklandwood.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Untitled-design-36-300x167.png 300w, https:\/\/marklandwood.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Untitled-design-36-768x429.png 768w, https:\/\/marklandwood.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Untitled-design-36.png 1376w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Several conditions can cause symptoms that feel as though they are coming from the heart, even when there is no serious cardiac problem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Anxiety and stress<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Anxiety can create very real physical symptoms, including a racing heartbeat, chest tightness, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Because these sensations can closely resemble a cardiac issue, an assessment may help determine whether the cause is stress-related or requires further investigation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Dehydration or too much caffeine<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dehydration and excessive caffeine intake can both trigger palpitations or the sensation that your heart has skipped a beat. In many cases, the symptoms improve once the underlying trigger is addressed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Poor sleep or reduced fitness<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Chronic sleep deprivation can affect how your body responds to physical activity. Similarly, after a long period of inactivity, even mild exertion may leave you more breathless than usual. These symptoms do not automatically indicate heart disease, but a new or significant change should still be discussed with a doctor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Benign heart murmurs or rhythm variations<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some people have harmless variations in their heartbeat or heart sounds without realizing it. These may only be discovered during a routine physical examination or cardiac test.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Manageable underlying conditions<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">High blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, anemia, thyroid problems, or early changes in the heart\u2019s valves can sometimes contribute to these symptoms. Once identified, many of these conditions can be effectively managed through treatment, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Happens During a Cardiac Assessment?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A non-emergency cardiac assessment usually begins with a conversation and a physical examination. Depending on your symptoms and risk factors, your doctor may also recommend one or more diagnostic tests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A detailed review of your symptoms<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your doctor will ask when the symptoms began, how often they occur, how long they last, and what you are doing when they happen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You may also be asked whether the symptoms are connected to exercise, emotional stress, meals, caffeine, certain medications, or a particular time of day. These details can provide important clues about the possible cause.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A physical examination<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The doctor will usually listen to your heart and lungs, check your blood pressure and pulse, and look for other signs that may help explain your symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your medical history, current medications, and family history of heart disease may also be reviewed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">An ECG<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An electrocardiogram, commonly called an ECG, is a quick and painless test that records the electrical activity of your heart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It can help identify an abnormal rhythm, although intermittent problems may not appear if they are not occurring during the test.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">An echocardiogram<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An echocardiogram uses ultrasound technology to create images of the heart. It allows healthcare professionals to examine the size of the heart\u2019s chambers, the movement of the valves, and the heart\u2019s overall pumping strength.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This test can help detect or rule out structural causes of chest discomfort, breathlessness, or other cardiac symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A Holter monitor<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When palpitations or rhythm changes occur unpredictably, your doctor may recommend a Holter monitor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This small, portable device records your heart\u2019s electrical activity continuously, usually for 24 to 48 hours. Because it monitors the heart for longer than a standard ECG, it may capture irregularities that occur only occasionally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Blood tests<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bloodwork may be used to look for conditions that can contribute to cardiac-like symptoms. These may include anemia, thyroid problems, electrolyte imbalances, or other underlying health concerns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why Timely Assessment Matters<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When symptoms fall into the uncertain middle ground, the time between noticing something unusual and receiving a clear answer can feel surprisingly long.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Waiting several weeks for an externally referred echocardiogram may mean spending that time closely monitoring every heartbeat or becoming increasingly worried whenever the symptom returns. That anxiety can sometimes intensify stress-related symptoms, creating an uncomfortable cycle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Access to on-site cardiac testing can make the process more straightforward. Instead of visiting one location for the initial appointment, another for diagnostic testing, and then returning for follow-up, a clinic with cardiac diagnostic services may be able to complete several steps in the same location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This can reduce delays and help patients understand what is happening sooner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cardiac Symptoms Do Not Always Include Chest Pain<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Chest pain is not the only reason someone may need a cardiac assessment. Other symptoms can also justify speaking with a doctor, especially when they are new, persistent, or becoming more noticeable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These may include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Unexplained fatigue that feels out of proportion to your normal activity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A sensation that your heart is fluttering, racing, skipping, or beating irregularly<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>New or increasing swelling in the ankles or legs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Becoming tired or short of breath during activities you previously handled comfortably<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A noticeable decline in exercise tolerance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Any new symptom combined with a strong family history of heart disease<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These symptoms do not necessarily mean that something is wrong with your heart. However, they provide a reasonable basis for a medical assessment rather than continued guesswork.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What to Do Next<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you have experienced repeated episodes of chest tightness, palpitations, unusual fatigue, or breathlessness, consider booking an appointment for an assessment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You do not necessarily need to begin with a cardiologist. A <a href=\"https:\/\/marklandwood.ca\/family-doctors.html\">family doctor <\/a>or <a href=\"https:\/\/marklandwood.ca\/walk-in.html\">walk-in physician<\/a> can review your symptoms, perform an initial examination, order appropriate testing, and refer you to a specialist if the results suggest that further care is needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/marklandwood.ca\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/marklandwood.ca\/\">Marklandwood Medical Clinic<\/a>, located on <a href=\"https:\/\/share.google\/Eq82OwoBB9cjR8Mhu\">Bloor Street West in Etobicoke<\/a>, offers family medicine and walk-in services alongside an on-site, Accreditation Canada-licensed echocardiography lab. This allows patients with non-emergency cardiac concerns to receive an assessment and diagnostic testing in the same building rather than being sent to a separate facility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To book an assessment, call <strong>(416) 695-8878<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Taking the next step does not mean assuming that something serious is wrong. It simply means getting the information you need to understand your symptoms and decide what, if anything, should happen next.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When should I go to the emergency room instead of booking a doctor\u2019s appointment for chest pain?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Seek emergency care immediately if the pain is severe or crushing, spreads to the arm, jaw, neck, shoulder, or back, or occurs with sweating, nausea, lightheadedness, fainting, or severe shortness of breath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Milder symptoms that come and go without these warning signs may be assessed through a scheduled medical appointment. However, symptoms that worsen or become severe should always be treated as an emergency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Are heart palpitations always a sign of a serious problem?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. Palpitations can be triggered by anxiety, dehydration, caffeine, poor sleep, stress, or certain medications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, palpitations that happen frequently, last for an extended period, or occur with chest pain, fainting, dizziness, or difficulty breathing should be medically assessed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What tests may be used to assess chest pain or palpitations?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Initial testing may include an ECG to examine the heart\u2019s electrical rhythm, an echocardiogram to evaluate its structure and pumping function, and blood tests to look for contributing conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A Holter monitor may also be recommended when symptoms occur intermittently and are difficult to capture during a standard ECG.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can anxiety cause chest pain and shortness of breath?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. Anxiety can cause chest tightness, a racing heartbeat, dizziness, and shortness of breath. These symptoms can feel very similar to those associated with a heart condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because it can be difficult to tell the difference based on symptoms alone, a medical assessment may provide reassurance and help rule out other causes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How long does it take to get an echocardiogram after a referral in Etobicoke?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Wait times vary depending on where the test is performed. An external referral may involve waiting several weeks, while clinics with on-site echocardiography services may be able to arrange testing within a shorter period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Availability depends on the clinic, the urgency of the symptoms, and the patient\u2019s individual medical needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What does it mean if my doctor hears a heart murmur?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A heart murmur is an additional sound heard while listening to the heartbeat. Many murmurs are harmless and simply reflect the normal movement of blood through the heart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An echocardiogram may be recommended to examine the heart\u2019s valves and structure and determine whether the murmur requires monitoring or treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Should I be concerned about shortness of breath when climbing stairs?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It depends on whether the symptom represents a change from your normal level of activity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Breathlessness after a period of inactivity may be related to reduced fitness. However, new, worsening, or unexplained shortness of breath should be discussed with a healthcare professional, particularly if it occurs with chest discomfort, dizziness, or palpitations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is a Holter monitor, and why is it used?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A Holter monitor is a portable device that continuously records your heart\u2019s rhythm, usually for 24 to 48 hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is particularly useful for detecting palpitations or irregular heartbeats that happen only occasionally and may not appear during a short ECG performed in a clinic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can high blood pressure cause chest pain or palpitations?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">High blood pressure often causes no obvious symptoms. Over time, however, it can place additional strain on the heart and contribute to changes in its structure and function.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For this reason, checking blood pressure is an important part of assessing chest discomfort, palpitations, or shortness of breath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do I need a specialist referral for a cardiac assessment?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not necessarily. A family doctor or walk-in physician can perform an initial assessment and order tests such as an ECG, echocardiogram, Holter monitor, or bloodwork when appropriate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A cardiologist referral is generally recommended when the symptoms, examination, or test results suggest that specialist care is needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is it normal to feel my heart skip a beat occasionally?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Occasional sensations of a skipped or extra heartbeat are common and are often harmless.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They should be assessed if they become frequent, last longer than usual, or occur with symptoms such as chest pain, fainting, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How does family history affect the need for a cardiac assessment?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A family history of heart disease, especially heart disease that developed at a younger age, may increase your risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because of this, a doctor may recommend an assessment even when your symptoms are mild or infrequent. Be prepared to share which family members were affected and how old they were when their condition was diagnosed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can dehydration or caffeine cause heart palpitations?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. Both dehydration and excessive caffeine intake can trigger palpitations in some people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Reducing caffeine and staying properly hydrated may help. However, recurring symptoms should still be discussed with a doctor rather than automatically assuming that caffeine or dehydration is the cause.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is chest pain that comes and goes less serious than constant chest pain?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not necessarily. The pattern, location, triggers, severity, and associated symptoms are often more important than whether the discomfort is constant or intermittent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Chest pain that repeatedly returns should be medically assessed, particularly if it occurs during physical activity or alongside other symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the difference between an ECG and an echocardiogram?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An ECG records the heart\u2019s electrical activity and can help identify abnormal rhythms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An echocardiogram uses ultrasound to create images of the heart\u2019s physical structure, including its chambers, valves, and pumping function.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because the tests examine different aspects of the heart, they may be used together to provide a more complete picture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Maybe you noticed a flutter in your chest while climbing the stairs. Perhaps you felt a tight pressure that came and went, or suddenly found yourself short of breath for no obvious reason. When something like this happens, it is natural to wonder: Is this an emergency? Is it harmless? Or is it somewhere in [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1,23,22,14,6,13],"tags":[26,24,25,18,15],"class_list":["post-274","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-blog","category-cardiac","category-chest-pain","category-family-doctor","category-family-physician","category-walk-in-clinic","tag-cardiac-assessment","tag-chest-pain","tag-family-doctor","tag-family-physician-etobicoke","tag-walk-in-clinic-markland-wood"],"featured_image_url":[],"post_author":"ddsquaretechnologies7","assigned_categories":"Blog, cardiac, chest pain, family doctor, family physician, walk in clinic","yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Chest Pain, Palpitations, or Shortness of Breath? 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