Chest Pain and Tiredness? Next Steps for Care in Anaheim, CA

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Chest Pain and Tiredness? Next Steps for Care in Anaheim, CA

Experiencing new symptoms like chest discomfort, unusual tiredness, swelling in your legs, and shortness of breath can understandably cause worry. If you’ve noticed these symptoms especially after eating greasy foods or during simple activities like climbing stairs, it’s completely normal to seek answers and care. While medical terms like “hyperlipidemia” may sound unfamiliar, your concern is valid and taking the first step to learn more is important.

This article is designed to guide you on what to expect next: the kinds of doctors you might see for these symptoms, the typical procedures they may perform, and the estimated costs for care in Anaheim, CA. You are in the right place to gather useful information to help you take confident next steps toward your health and peace of mind.

Who to See for Your Symptoms in Anaheim, CA

Based on your symptoms, there are a few types of healthcare providers that are commonly involved in evaluation and treatment:

  • Cardiology: Cardiologists specialize in diagnosing and treating heart conditions. Since chest pain and breathlessness can be related to heart health, they are experts in this area.
  • Internal Medicine: Internists are primary care doctors who focus on adult medicine and manage a broad range of conditions including heart, blood, and metabolic issues. They can evaluate your symptoms comprehensively.
  • Hematology: Hematologists focus on blood disorders. If there is any concern about your blood cells or circulation causing symptoms like leg swelling or tiredness, they may be involved.

Starting with one of these providers can help you get the right tests and a clear diagnosis.

What to Expect: Initial Visits and Estimated Costs

Here is a summary of common procedures you might undergo with each provider type in Anaheim, along with estimated self-pay costs. These costs are approximate and based on local provider data.

Visit with a Cardiology Specialist

  • Procedure: New patient office or other outpatient visit, 45-59 minutes (CPT Code: 99204)
    Purpose: This is a detailed first visit where the cardiologist will review your symptoms, medical history, and perform a physical exam.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $284.46 (typically ranges from $213.35 to $355.58)
    This estimate is based on 117 providers in the Anaheim area.

  • Procedure: Routine electrocardiogram (ECG) using at least 12 leads with interpretation and report (CPT Code: 93000)
    Purpose: A simple, painless test that records your heart’s electrical activity to check for any irregularities causing chest pain or breathlessness.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $26.88 (typically ranges from $19.00 to $34.76)
    Based on 170 providers.

  • Procedure: Ultrasound of heart with color-depicted blood flow, rate, direction, and valve function (CPT Code: 93306)
    Purpose: Also called an echocardiogram, this test uses sound waves to create images of your heart to see how it’s working.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $161.38 (typically ranges from $121.03 to $201.72)
    Based on 179 providers.

  • Procedure: Blood test, lipids (cholesterol and triglycerides) (CPT Code: 80061)
    Purpose: Measures your cholesterol and fat levels in the blood, which can influence heart health and explain symptoms after greasy meals.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $20.98 (typically ranges from $15.73 to $26.22)
    Based on 4 providers.

  • Procedure: Complete blood cell count (red cells, white blood cells, platelets), automated test and automated differential (CPT Code: 85025)
    Purpose: Assesses overall blood health including anemia or infection that could cause tiredness or swelling.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $12.18 (typically ranges from $9.13 to $15.22)
    Based on 4 providers.

Visit with an Internal Medicine Doctor

  • Procedure: New patient office or other outpatient visit, 45-59 minutes (CPT Code: 99204)
    Purpose: A comprehensive first evaluation with an internal medicine doctor to assess your symptoms and overall health.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $278.61 (ranges from $208.96 to $348.26)
    Based on 223 providers.

  • Procedure: Routine electrocardiogram (ECG) (CPT Code: 93000)
    Purpose: To check heart rhythm and electrical activity as explained above.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $29.89 (ranges from $19.02 to $40.76)
    Based on 261 providers.

  • Procedure: Blood test, lipids (cholesterol and triglycerides) (CPT Code: 80061)
    Purpose: To analyze cholesterol related to your symptoms.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $26.17 (ranges from $15.74 to $36.60)
    Based on 16 providers.

  • Procedure: Complete blood cell count (CPT Code: 85025)
    Purpose: To evaluate blood components affecting your tiredness and swelling.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $15.75 (ranges from $9.13 to $22.36)
    Based on 15 providers.

  • Procedure: Ultrasound of heart (echocardiogram) (CPT Code: 93306)
    Purpose: To visualize heart function if needed based on symptoms or exam.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $222.13 (ranges from $166.60 to $277.66)
    Based on 59 providers.

Visit with a Hematology Specialist

  • Procedure: New patient office or other outpatient visit, 60-74 minutes (CPT Code: 99205)
    Purpose: A longer, in-depth consultation focused on blood disorders that could explain swelling or tiredness.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $337.79 (ranges from $253.34 to $422.24)
    Based on 5 providers.

  • Procedure: Complete blood cell count (CPT Code: 85025)
    Purpose: To examine your blood for conditions like anemia or clotting issues.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $12.14 (ranges from $9.11 to $15.18)
    Based on 1 provider.

  • Procedure: Insertion of needle into vein for collection of blood sample (CPT Code: 36415)
    Purpose: This is the blood draw itself for testing.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $13.38 (ranges from $10.03 to $16.72)
    Based on 2 providers.

Taking care of new and worrying symptoms starts with professional evaluation. Here’s what to do next:

  1. Schedule an Appointment: Contact a cardiologist, internal medicine doctor, or hematologist in Anaheim based on your preference or referral. Starting with internal medicine is often a good choice to guide further care.
  2. Prepare for Your Visit: Write down when your symptoms started, what you notice triggers or worsens them, and any other health concerns. Don’t forget to list questions you want to ask.
  3. Discuss Costs: When making your appointment, confirm the expected charges with the provider’s office. The estimates here are typical but can vary.
  4. Stay Reassured: Remember, seeking care is the best step towards understanding your symptoms and getting the right treatment. Your health matters, and professionals are there to support you.

Need Help Navigating Your Options?

Finding affordable, trustworthy care can be confusing, especially if you’re uninsured or new to the system. That’s why we built Transparent Health: a tool to help you understand your options and find the right provider for your needs.

Disclaimer: This blog post provides general informational content and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized care.