.png)
Diagnosis and treatment of palpitations and heart rhythm problems
Getting to a diagnosis
Heart rhythm conditions are surprisingly common, affecting millions worldwide. But while they can be unsettling, remember, timely diagnosis and effective treatment can put you back on track to a healthy, active life.
Understanding the Rhythm:
My expertise lies in diagnosing and treating a wide range of heart rhythm conditions, including:
-
Atrial fibrillation (AF): A quivering or irregular heartbeat in the upper chambers of the heart.
-
Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT): Rapid heartbeats originating above the ventricles (lower chambers).
-
Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs): Extra beats arising from the ventricles, often felt as skipped or fluttering heartbeats.
-
Ventricular tachycardia (VT): Fast heartbeats originating in the ventricles, potentially serious if sustained.
-
Bradycardia: Slow heart rate, leading to fatigue and dizziness.
Diagnosis: Finding the Underlying Cause
During your consultation, we'll delve into your medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle habits. This initial assessment will be followed by specialized tests, including:
-
Electrocardiogram (ECG): Measures your heart's electrical activity, capturing any rhythm abnormalities.
-
Holter monitor: A portable ECG worn for 24-48 hours to record your heart rhythm throughout daily activities.
-
Echocardiogram: Uses ultrasound to visualize your heart's structure and function, identifying any underlying issues.
-
Blood tests and other scans: Sometimes other causes can be responsible for your symptoms.
-
Electrophysiology study (EPS): In come cases, a specialized test that maps your heart's electrical pathways is needed, pinpointing the origin of certain arrhythmias. Usually ablation treatment is performed in the same sitting.
.webp)
Treatment options
Based on the diagnosis and your individual needs, we'll explore the most suitable treatment options. These may include:
-
Lifestyle modifications: Exercise, stress management, and dietary changes can often improve heart health and reduce arrhythmia risk.
-
Medications: Various medications can help control heart rate, prevent irregular beats, and prevent blood clots.
-
Catheter ablation: A minimally invasive procedure using thin tubes to target and eliminate the source of the arrhythmia.
-
Pacemaker or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD): Devices implanted to regulate heart rhythm or deliver shocks if needed.
Personalised Care
There's no one-size-fits-all approach to managing heart rhythm conditions. I am committed to providing personalized care and expert guidance throughout your journey. We'll work together to:
-
Understand your specific concerns and priorities.
-
Explain your diagnosis and treatment options in clear, understandable language.
-
Develop a treatment plan that aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.
-
Monitor your progress closely and make adjustments as needed.
