ABSTRACT
This chapter presents ten pearls of wisdom for general practitioners (GPs) for better understanding of cardiology related problems and for more efficient use of resources. These pearls have been acquired from years of experience and evidence-based study by specialists in the field. The symptom of palpitations is one of the most common reasons for referral to cardiology, yet most of these patients can be reassured that their symptoms are harmless. The chapter also presents advice on diagnoses often overlooked by GPs while handling patients with heart disease. Diagnoses of the following diseases/disorders are recommended: infective endocarditis, syndrome X, takotsubo cardiomyopathy, long QT syndrome, and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). The chapter provides guidance on how to distinguish tricky differentials and finally a few tips on prescribing medications for these patients.
