Your first and most crucial step should almost always be a General Physician (GP) or Internist. They act as a diagnostic detective and project manager for your care. When you have symptoms affecting different systems (like breathing and heart palpitations), a GP is essential to evaluate the whole picture, order initial tests, and determine if your breathing issues are truly lung-related or perhaps caused by a heart condition (or vice-versa). They can identify the most likely cause and provide the appropriate referral, preventing you from seeing the wrong specialist and delaying a correct diagnosis.
For specific long-term or severe symptoms, certain specialists become key. You should see a Pulmonologist for persistent breathing issues like shortness of breath, a chronic cough, wheezing, or suspected conditions like asthma, COPD, or pulmonary fibrosis. A Cardiologist is crucial for symptoms including chest pain, heart palpitations, irregular heartbeats, dizziness, or severe shortness of breath that worsens with physical activity, which could indicate heart failure or arrhythmias. Other vital specialists include a Gastroenterologist for persistent abdominal pain, reflux, or bowel changes; a Neurologist for chronic headaches, dizziness, numbness, or vision problems; and a Rheumatologist for widespread pain, joint swelling, and fatigue that may suggest an autoimmune condition.
In summary, start with a General Physician for a comprehensive overview. They will coordinate your care and refer you to the necessary specialists based on their findings, ensuring a systematic and efficient path to an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.