In mid February 2019 I took unwell at work with sudden onset moderate central chest pain radiating to my jaw with difficulty breathing lasting 5 min each episode. My symptoms eased after the second episode , which I then decided that instead of calling an ambulance, I felt well enough to attend my Drs surgery. I drove myself to the surgery and asked the receptionist that was on duty if I could see a Doctor. During this time I started to feel mild pain in my chest and jaw again which then disappeared .
I was informed by the receptionist that there were no doctors available at this time, as they were at lunch. I insisted to be assessed by someone because of the chest pain and feeling unwell and anxious. The receptionist was getting a bit irritated with me, and said they could do nothing for me, so went through the back and brought a laminate sheet to me with symptoms written on it. They said if I currently have any of some specific symptoms I should call 999. This receptionist left it up to me to decide if it was urgent enough or go up to the hospital, said its up to you? and carried on with accepting a parcel delivery. I was not invited to sit down in waiting room or have a glass of water offered to me. Not even an assessment by a nurseI felt distressed and confused as to what to do and also what was making me feel like this. So I left, possibly not well enough to make a rational decision at this stage. Angry and distressed that I couldn't find medical help at a GP surgery . So I drove to A and E and the minute I spoke to reception and nurse I was rushed through to resus. I had a STEMI and was in VF. I am now starting my recovery after this MI and stent insertion . At the time , a heart attack never crossed my mind as I'm only 48 yrs old and lead a healthy lifestyle. More likely my first panic attack, which wouldn't warrant a 999 call. 5 days on I still have distress about my experience at this practice. I feel let down by the practice that no healthcare professional was available to even do a quick assessment of my recent and ongoing symptoms and advise accordingly. There was no caring attitude towards my distress or support offered. I felt I was a nuisance.In hindsight I should have called an ambulance at work ,but I realise now I was not in the right state of mind at the time to make a rational decision .
"Attending with chest pain and breathlessness"
About: General practices in Ayrshire & Arran General practices in Ayrshire & Arran
Posted by Heart strings (as ),
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