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Dr. Syed Ahsan, a Consultant Cardiologist at London Heart Clinic, emphasises that ablation for AF is a very successful treatment. Initial procedures achieve over 50% rhythm maintenance, with higher success rates in subsequent attempts. However, if you’ve had multiple ablations that have failed, a newer option called the convergent procedure may be right for you. Contact the London Heart Clinic to learn more about your treatment options.

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Ablation for AF is very successful and overall more than 50% of patients after the first procedure will maintain a regular rhythm. Obviously, you may need more procedures and the incremental success rate increases with each procedure that you have. If you have episodes of AF, which are intermittent…

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Dr Syed Ahsan lists some of the things that you can expect after an ablation procedure, including the blanking period during which you may still experience palpitations as inflammation settles down.

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Dr. Syed Ahsan, a Consultant Cardiologist at London Heart Clinic, explains what happens during a catheter ablation, a minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF). Instead of surgery, small wires and balloons are passed through veins in the leg, which act like a motorway into the heart. This allows the delivery of high-frequency energy or freezing within the heart to prevent abnormal electrical signals that trigger AF and other rhythm issues. This procedure is effective, safe and efficient, and many people are able to go home the same day as their procedure.

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Dr Syed Ahsan lists some of the things that you can expect before and after your ablation procedure, including assessments by the specialist and nurse beforehand, and recovery afterward.

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Dr Syed Ahsan explains what happens during a catheter ablation procedure, including the passing of fine wires through the veins in your leg through to your heart. They then create a 3D image of the heart, and deliver the treatment to very specific areas.

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Dr. Syed Ahsan explains that most catheter ablations can be done as day procedures without surgery, and in most cases you will be up and walking within a few hours.

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Depending on the type of ablation procedure you have, this can often be done nowadays as a day case. The recovery after the procedure is normally very quick. And you don’t have any surgery, so you’ll be up and walking around normally within a few hours.

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Consultant Cardiologist for Bart’s Heart Centre Dr. Syed Ahsan explains that both cryoablation and radiofrequency have equal rates of success, and are both as safe as the other.

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Radiofrequency in cryoablation, which is freezing for the heart, have recently been compared for the treatment of atrial fibrillation, which is an irregular heart rhythm. The data that we have to date suggests that both techniques carry equal success rates, and are both as safe as each other.

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Dr Syed Ahsan explains that the recovery time from an ablation procedure is usually very quick, and you will be discharged the same day (and rarely the next day).

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“Looking for more information about ablation success rates? Dr. Syed Ahsan lists the different success rates for SVT (supraventricular tachycardia), paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and persistent atrial fibrillation, stressing that they are unique to each individual.
The success rates for ablation for SVT is very high, explains Dr Syed Ahsan, Consultant Cardiologist. It is in the high 90’s in terms of percentage. For atrial fibrillation the success rates depend on the type of atrial fibrillation you have and whether you have any other conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes.”

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All of the success rates for ablation for SVT or supraventricular tachycardia are very high, in the high 90s, in terms of percentage. So this is really a curative procedure and it’s now offered to patients as a first-line treatment even before medications because the success rate is so good….

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Dr Syed Ahsan lists some of the signs that an ablation procedure was successful, and explains that while you may experience further palpitations during the blanking period, this does not mean that your treatment was unsuccessful.

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Dr. Syed Ahsan assures viewers of this short video that the chance of risks involved in ablation is very low, and in some rare cases patients experience bruising, tenderness, or needing a pacemaker.

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Wondering what an ablation can treat? Consultant Cardiologist Dr. Syed Ahsan lists these conditions, including SVT (supraventricular tachycardia), atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and ventricular arrhythmias.

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Dr. Syed Ahsan is a Consultant Cardiologist, and he is a firm believer in the efficacy of video FAQs, as they allow patients to see him speak and are more interesting and engaging to watch.

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Dr Syed Ahsan, Consultant Cardiologist explains why video is a good tool for patient education. Rather than having to read lots and lots of text, videos enable patients to interact with their consultant.

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Dr Syed Ahsan explains that he stays up to date with latest cardiology breakthroughs by reading the latest peer reviewed journals and webinars.

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Dr Syed Ahsan, Consultant Cardiologist explains how he became involved in cardiology. He has been involved in this field for the last 20 years.

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Hi there, it’s Dr. Syed Ahsan here. Thanks for your inquiry, someone will be in touch within the next working day regarding the details of booking an appointment at a time and place that suits you. I look forward to seeing you at the London Heart Clinic.

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Dr Syed Ahsan lists some of the procedures can be completed during an outpatient appointment, including an ECG, ultrasound scan, and certain diagnostic tests can also be implanted in the outpatient setting.

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So we can certainly do a lot of the diagnostic tests that you may need, for example, an ultrasound scan, an ECG, a heart monitor, they can all be fitted for you normally at the same time as your appointment, or very soon after. Certain diagnostic tests that we do such as implantable loop recorder or reveal LINQ device, which is there to monitor your heart, can also be implanted in the outpatient setting now, rather than requiring you to have an admission for this procedure.

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In this short video, Dr. Syed Ahsan counsels GPs on when they should refer their patients to a cardiologist. Some of the red flags for referral include palpitations, black outs, and chest pain.

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When you are having a heart procedure, Dr. Syed Ahsan advises that you do research and ask your cardiologist to go through the procedure and its risks in detail with you.

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Dr Syed Ahsan, Consultant Cardiologist explains the step by step consultation process. Usually patients will require an initial consultation where he will go through a detailed history and arrange some preliminary tests. Patients usually are seen within 2-3 consultations.

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Dr Syed Ahsan assures patients that the wait times for an appointment or consultation are not long; he runs clinics around London, and can work with your schedule. Book an appointment today.

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So, it’s not a long wait for a consultation. We can normally accommodate you quite quickly. I do clinics throughout London, and I run clinics both in the day and the evening. So, we can fit around your work schedule and your location.

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Dr. Syed Ahsan is a Consultant Cardiologist and Heart Rhythm Specialist, and in this short video he details the whole range of cardiac diagnostic tests.

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So we can arrange a whole set of cardiac diagnostic tests ranging from simple blood tests and ECGs to more specialist test such cardiac MRIs and CT scans. We also have a network of cardiologists with different specialist areas so we can deal with all your cardiac health needs.

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An initial consultation with Consultant Cardiologist Dr Syed Ahsan involves him taking a detailed history of your problem, looking at your family history and lifestyle as well as answering any questions. The consultation can last between 30-45 minutes and you may be referred for further tests.

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So when you come to see me, I will take a history, a full detailed history about your problem, any other conditions you may have, family history, and your lifestyle. And depending on what your condition is or what we find, we may refer you on, for further tests. These include heart tracing scans, or CT scans. So that will give us all the information we need. The initial consultation normally lasts somewhere between half an hour to 45 minutes and follow-up consultations can be a bit shorter depending on what we need to discuss. But what I do try and do is to try and answer all your questions in quite a lot of detail and hopefully provides you with information and leave the consultation feeling more informed about your condition.

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Dr Syed Ahsan lists some of the things that happen during a consultation at London Heart Clinic, including a full detailed medical history and a cardiac examination, as well as arranging some routine tests, if needed.

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Dr Syed Ahsan is a Consultant Cardiologist based in London. He works out of a number of locations.

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So I’m based in London. I will practice out of various locations in and around London. So, normally, there is a location which is convenient or close to you where you can be seen fairly quickly and easily.

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Atrial Fibrillation

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Atrial Fibrillation

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What can I do to help atrial fibrillation?

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Dr Syed Ahsan explains that atrial fibrillation can be easy to diagnose. Your pulse will be checked, and if it is irregular you will undergo an ECG or a longer period of monitoring.

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Dr Syed Ahsan lists some of the ways to prevent atrial fibrillation by following a healthy lifestyle, drinking less, quitting smoking, and following a Mediterranean diet.

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Dr Syed Ahsan lists some of the diagnostic tests for atrial fibrillation, including an ECG, longer monitoring with a 24 hour to 1-week ECGs, or an echocardiogram.

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Dr Syed Ahsan explains that atrial fibrillation increases the risk of stroke because the irregular heartbeat allows blood to pool and clot in a sac near the heart. The clots can then travel to the brain and cause a stroke.

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Typically, appointments are available promptly. In emergencies, we will try to see you within 24 to 48 hours, but for most patients, your appointment will be scheduled for a few days’ time. Dr. Syed Ahsan will ensure you can get any tests that are required organised very quickly, often on the same day. You’ll get the results of these tests and any other follow-ups within a matter of days.

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Dr Syed Ahsan advises that atrial fibrillation can be genetic, and so he would ask you first for a detailed family history.

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Dr Syed Ahsan, Consultant Cardiologist explains the differences between an atrial flutter and atrial fibrillation. Whereas an atrial flutter is a fast regular beating, atrial fibrillation is an irregular chaotic heart rhythm. Both conditions increase your risk of stroke and need to be taken seriously.

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There are many things that can increase your risk of atrial fibrillation (AF), including environmental factors, like smoking or drinking, or a family history. However, you can lower your risk. Dr. Syed Ahsan, a leading expert in heart rhythm disorders, advises maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, moderate alcohol intake, and a balanced diet to reduce your chances of developing AF. Addressing conditions like high blood pressure and sleep apnoea further lowers your risk of developing AF, so speak to us today.

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Bart’s Heart Centre Consultant Cardiologist, Dr Syed Ahsan, explains that atrial fibrillation gets more common as we get older, and the risk of developing AF can be increased by hypertension, heart disease, and previous heart attacks.

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If you have atrial fibrillation, it’s important to understand your triggers and how to prevent episodes. In this video, Dr. Syed Ahsan describes some of the common triggers, including alcohol and stress, and who is more likely to trigger their AF. However, everyone’s triggers are different, and you may have none at all. Visit our atrial fibrillation condition page to learn about the factors that increase your AF risk.

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Dr. Syed Ahsan, Consultant Cardiologist and Heart Rhythm Specialist, advises that the most important preventative measure for anyone with atrial fibrillation is to take blood thinners, and that new options are available.

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Dr Syed Ahsan explains that atrial fibrillation is dangerous, as it can strokes and periods of long hospitalisation.

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Wondering when to seek a specialist’s help for atrial fibrillation? Dr. Syed Ahsan explains that anyone with this condition needs to seek medical treatment, even if they have no symptoms. Early intervention can prevent blood clots from forming.

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Anyone with atrial fibrillation should seek medical advice, even if they’re having no symptoms. And the main reason is to assess your risk of stroke and see whether you need to be started on blood thinning medications to prevent blood clots from forming.

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Dr Syed Ahsan lists some of the medications available for atrial flutter, including blood thinners and anti-coagulants, as well as rate control medications. The most effective treatment is a catheter ablation.

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If you want to learn more about your heart rhythm, there are tools available to help you monitor it home. For example, the Kardia device is a home monitoring tool for heart rhythm that is available on smartphone or smartwatches. Dr. Syed Ahsan, a specialist expert in heart rhythm disorders, recommends it for accurate and non-invasive at-home heart rhythm monitoring. Recordings can be stored as PDFs and easily shared with your medical team to confirm your diagnosis.

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Dr. Syed Ahsan, a Consultant Cardiologist, explains the convergent procedure, a novel approach to treat atrial fibrillation. It combines internal and external heart treatments in two separate procedures, which take place across a few weeks. Research has shown that you can have better outcomes in maintaining a regular heart rhythm with this combined approach. If standard catheter ablations have failed, or your heart is too large or has been in AF for a long time, the convergent procedure may be more suitable for you. Contact us today to book your appointment with Dr. Ahsan.

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If your watch or phone alerts you about potential atrial fibrillation (AF), it’s crucial to consult with a doctor or a specialist like Dr. Syed Ahsan, a specialist expert in heart rhythm disorders. Further tests and investigations may be necessary, as these modern devices are accurate in detecting AF. Take any alerts seriously and seek professional advice promptly.

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After you’ve had an ablation procedure, you will still need to keep any eye on your atrial fibrillation (AF). Our expert Cardiologist, Dr. Syed Ahsan, may request you to use a smart device, like a phone or watch, to monitor your heart rhythm. This will help you stay informed and on top of your condition, and, if concerned, you can share the data with him to get a professional assessment. The devices are very accurate and will help you feel reassured about your AF.

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Are you experiencing atrial fibrillation (AF) and concerned about what it means for your health? AF is totally manageable, but it is important that you keep taking your medications and contacting a healthcare provide if you’re worried about anything. The key is to stay calm, as there are many effective strategies to address and treat atrial fibrillation. Dr. Syed Ahsan is a world-leading expert in heart rhythm disorders, treating many people like you with AF every day. Contact us today to book your consultation with him.

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Dr Syed Ahsan, Consultant Cardiologist explains the different types of treatments available for atrial fibrillation. These include catheter ablation and convergent ablation. There is another hybrid procedure called the conversion procedure which is currently being trialled.

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In this video. Dr. Syed Ahsan, our Consultant Cardiologist, discusses atrial fibrillation (AF) management. Initially, blood thinners are prescribed to prevent stroke risk. Your medications are then tailored to either maintain a normal heart rhythm or control your heart rate. Catheter ablation, a modern minimally invasive procedure, corrects heart irregularities as a day case procedure. To understand which of these treatment options is most appropriate to your unique needs, contact us today.

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Dr Syed Ahsan advises that while there is no cure for atrial fibrillation, there are plenty of treatments, such as medications and ablation, that can treat the problem.

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Dr Syed Ahsan lists some of the medications available for atrial flutter, including blood thinners and anti-coagulants, as well as rate control medications. The most effective treatment is a catheter ablation.

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The main risk of atrial flutter is the risk of stroke, says Dr Syed Ahsan, Consultant Cardiologist. Blood can accumulate within the top chamber and that blood can clot. The clot can then potentially cause a stroke. Patients who are diagnosed with atrial flutter are treated with blood thinners to prevent this.

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Atrial flutter is a fast regular beating, which usually originates from the top right chamber of the heart called the right atrium, explains Dr Syed Ahsan, Consultant Cardiologist. Patients experience palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath or blacking out.

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Dr Syed Ahsan lists some of the symptoms of atrial flutter, including shortness of breath and a fast heart rate, and advises that it coexists with atrial fibrillation in about 30% of cases.

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Dr Syed Ahsan lists some of the treatments for atrial flutter, including catheter ablation and blood thinners or anticoagulants, as well as medications to control your heart rate.

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Low blood pressure is very common, says Dr Syed Ahsan, Consultant Cardiologist. It is not dangerous, but it can make you feel dizzy, and some people faint as a result.

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High blood pressure is a reading elevated over 130 mmHg explains Dr Syed Ahsan, Consultant Cardiologist. High blood pressure can increase your risk of developing heart problems in the future.

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If you are wondering about your own condition, Dr Syed Ahsan explains why you might have high blood pressure. The most common form is essential hypertension, which does not necessarily have an underlying cause.

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Fainting occurs for a number of reasons, explains Dr Syed Ahsan, Consultant Cardiologist. The most common cause of fainting is a condition called vasovagal syncope which is when your blood pressure drops too low. Other reasons include heart rhythm problems or genetic conditions.

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Blackouts are the same thing as fainting explains Dr Syed Ahsan, Consultant Cardiologist. They happen as a result of low blood pressure. Because not enough blood reaches the brain, you pass out.

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Bart’s Heart Centre Consultant Cardiologist Dr Syed Ahsan walks you through where a CRT pacemaker is implanted. A small incision is made in your chest, and veins are used to advance the 3 leads to your heart.

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Dr. Syed Ahsan walks you through the CRT therapy process, explaining that you will first be assessed by a cardiologist and be given an ECG. The implantation process is usually done as a day procedure, and recovery time is fairly quick for most patients.

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Dr. Syed Ahsan addresses concerns about the safety of CRT, detailing the small risks of infection, bleeding and bruising around the heart, and leads potentially scratching the lungs.

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CRT is a very safe, straightforward procedure. In most cases, there’s a small risk of complications, which include, a risk of infection, a risk of scratching the surface of the lung, the small risks of the leads moving when they go in, and a small risk of bleeding and bruising around the heart.

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If you are wondering how long it takes to recover from a CRT procedure, cardiologist Dr. Syed Ahsan explains that it is usually very quick, with minor discomfort around the implantation site lasting a few days.

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Recovery from a CRT is usually very quick. You may have a bit of discomforts at the site where the incision has been made on your chest and where the pacemaker device is sitting, but that usually recovers within a couple of days.

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Dr Syed Ahsan defines CRT as cardio resynchronisation therapy that improves the synchronicity and efficiency of the left and right ventricles, so that more blood is pumped out to your body and lungs.

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Dr Syed Ahsan lists some of the things that happen during a CRT session, including implanting 3 leads into your heart that are connected to a small battery that sits on top of your chest muscle.

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Leading London Cardiologist Dr. Syed Ahsan defines Wolfe Parkinson White Syndrome as an extra bit of wiring that connects the top and bottom of the heart, in effect ‘short circuiting’ the heart. The heart can conduct extremely rapidly, leading to sudden death.

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Dr. Syed Ahsan defines inappropriate sinus tachycardia as a fast racing of your heart at times that it should not be racing.

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Inappropriate sinus tachycardia is a fast racing of your heart at times when your heart shouldn’t be racing. Sinus means a normal rhythm, and tachycardia means fast, and inappropriate means that your heart is going fast when you’re sitting down, or lying in bed, or doing very little exercise.

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Your risk of developing heart disease with COVID-19 is not significantly high unless you suffer from preexisting heart disease, such as heart failure, cardiomyopathy, coronary artery disease, or certain types of arrhythmia. If you have heart conditions which are well controlled, this risk is lower….

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Dr. Syed Ahsan explains that heart block refers to when the electrics in the top and bottom of the heart are not communicating, and can lead to shortness of breath, dizziness and black outs.

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High cholesterol isn’t necessarily dangerous as it doesn’t cause any symptoms, says Dr Syed Ahsan, Consultant Cardiologist. However, in the long-term to reduce your risk of heart disease your cholesterol levels will need to be reduced. It is recommended to make a number of lifestyle changes including taking up exercise and give up smoking.

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Looking to maintain a healthy heart? Dr. Syed Ahsan explains that a good diet, lessening alcohol consumption, limiting caffiene and getting regular exercise can all help maintain a healthy heart.

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What are the dangers of high cholesterol? Dr Syed Ahsan, one of our Consultant Cardiologists, explains that high cholesterol is unlikely to cause any direct problems. However, over time it can cause the arteries to fur and lead to heart attacks and strokes.

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Consultant Cardiologist Dr. Syed Ahsan explains the different types of abnormal heart rhythms, including extra beats coming from the bottom of the heart, irregular heart beats and a fast regular rhythms, and SVTs.

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What should you do if you feel you have an abnormal heart rhythm? Dr. Syed Ahsan advises that you should seek further advice if this is coupled with shortness of breath, dizziness and chest pain.

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If you’re having ongoing abnormal heart rhythms, if your heart is beating very fast, or if you’re feeling short of breath, or dizzy, or have chest pain with these episodes, you should seek further advice.

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Dr. Syed Ahsan advises that the most important thing when assessing your irregular heart beats is to assess whether you are likely to form blood clots, followed by medication to control your heart rate, and minimally invasive procedures.

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Dr Syed Ahsan lists some of the best heart screening tests, including a physical examination, an ECG, an echo scan, an exercise treadmill test, and a CPX test, as well as routine blood tests.

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Dr. Syed Ahsan details the top myths about heart problems, including: chest pain solely being due to your heart; being ‘too old’ to stop smoking; and that palpitations always lead to a heart attack.

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Dr. Syed Ahsan explains the difference between bigeminy and trigeminy, which are extra, foreceful beats that occur in twos and threes.

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Dr Syed Ahsan explains that cholesterol is a fat (lipid) that circulates in your blood stream. It speeds up the process of furring of the coronary arteries, and can obstruct blood flow.

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Dr Syed Ahsan provides some tips for managing cholesterol, including limiting fried foods and getting more exercise, for 20 minutes a day, 3 or 4 times per week.

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Dr Syed Ahsan explains that an ECG of the heart is an electro cardiogram, a very simple straightforward test that is done routinely. Twelve electrodes are placed on your arms, chest, and legs, allowing doctors to gain information about the working of your heart.

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Dr Syed Ahsan lists some of the foods that you should avoid if you have high cholesterol, including fried foods, chips, and prawns. You can increase your good cholesterol by exercising.

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Dr Syed Ahsan explains that any exercise is good for your heart – the key is to increase your heart rate for 20 minutes at least 3 or 4 times per week.

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Dr Syed Ahsan lists some of the potential risks of taking statins, and warns that there has been a lot of bad press about statins. You have to decide whether the benefits outweigh the risks.

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Dr Syed Ahsan advises that sugar is not dangerous for the heart per se, but a diet too high in sugar can lead to obesity, and poor cardiovascular health.

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Dr Syed Ahsan advises that alcohol is dangerous for the heart because it causes the heart to stretch, which leads to an alcohol induction cardiomyopathy. However, red wine can be quite healthy for your heart.

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Dr Syed Ahsan advises that vaping is dangerous for the heart, because it contains nicotine, which causes the heart to race.

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A heart attack is when one of the arteries supplying blood to your heart blocks, explains Dr Syed Ahsan, Consultant Cardiologist. This causes chest pains or tightness which radiates up to your neck, or perhaps down your arm, and makes you feel really unwell. If you experience a heart attack you should call 999 as this is a medical emergency.

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Sudden cardiac death is also known as Sudden Adult Death Syndrome or SADS explains, Dr Syed Ahsan, Consultant Cardiologist. It is a condition where adults die suddenly, usually at a young age.

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Dr. Syed Ahsan lists the symptoms of heart attack, including: central, crushing chest pain (radiating to arm or throat); feeling unwell and short of breath; feeling cold and clammy.

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Heart disease is a broad term that covers any conditions that concern the heart, explains Dr Syed Ahsan, Consultant Cardiologist.

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Dr Syed Ahsan explains that heart disease can be caused by a combination of genetics and lifestyle – you are particularly at risk if you have a family history of heart attacks as well as an unhealthy lifestyle.

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Leading London cardiologist Dr. Syed Ahsan wants you to look out for: chest pain (central and crushing, radiates to throat or arm); palpitations; shortness of breath; swelling in ankles/difficulty breathing at night; and feeling dizzy.

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Dr. Syed Ahsan defines a subcutaneous ICD as a new type of defibrillator that sits just under your skin, rather than being implanted deeper into your chest

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Dr Syed Ahsan explains that we mainly use pacemakers to prevent and treat slow heart rhythms. We may also use advanced pacemakers, such as cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) and biventricular pacemakers, to improve heart function in patients with heart failure. If you experience slow rhythms or have heart failure, book an appointment with Dr Ahsan to discuss your treatment options.

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Dr Syed Ahsan advises that the typical lifetime of a pacemaker depends on how often you need to use it, typically ranging from 6 to 10 years

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Dr Syed Ahsan explains what a pacemaker is, how it operates and the different types, including those with two or three leads, leadless pacemakers, and those integrated with implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs). Pacemakers treat slow heart rhythms by delivering electrical activity to the heart. The device has a battery and a pacing lead, which we insert into the heart via a small incision. We will determine your pacemaker type by your specific needs. The procedure is generally safe with a low complication rate. Book an appointment with our heart rhythm specialist to determine if you are a suitable candidate.

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We can monitor pacemakers wirelessly, meaning you don’t have to make frequent trips to the hospital or clinic to have your device checked. Some people worry they need surgery to monitor their pacemaker, but this is not the case. However, you will need a surgical procedure when we first insert the device. Physical checks may be necessary if there’s a problem or concern, but we also offer remote monitoring at the London Heart Clinic. It’s rare that you would need to visit us for monitoring. Contact our clinic to hear more about our private services.

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Dr Ahsan explains that home heart monitoring has transformed how we treat people with heart conditions. It improves their quality of life and allows us to detect dangerous conditions more easily by remotely downloading data from their devices. We can also see how your heart reacts to everyday activities and stressors. Talk to our specialist to learn more about the importance of home heart monitoring.

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At the London Heart Clinic, we offer a variety of cardiac diagnostic tests to evaluate heart function. Tests include electrocardiograms (ECGs), echocardiograms, treadmill tests, and heart monitoring. If you have any concerns about your heart or need testing, we can help. Contact our clinic to book a consultation.

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Dr Ahsan shares that you should not feel chest pain after getting a pacemaker, but you may have some mild discomfort for 48 hours around the insertion site. We can manage this with over-the-counter pain relievers. You may also experience some bruising. After the procedure, keep the wound dry and clean to avoid an infection. Signs of an infection include redness, swelling and discharge. Contact our clinic if you are concerned about your symptoms after pacemaker surgery.

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You shouldn’t experience chest pain after a pacemaker is fitted, but you may have some discomfort around the site of the incision and the pocket where the pacemaker was fitted. This tends to be mild and is usually well controlled with routine analgesics such as paracetamol or ibuprofen.

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Dr Syed Ahsan advises that the recovery from pacemaker surgery is fast, and we can control any discomfort with painkillers. You might experience temporary bruising or bleeding where we inserted the pacemaker, but this often lasts a few days. Visit our page on pacemakers to read more about recovering from pacemaker surgery. We also discuss why you might need one and the risks involved.

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Recovery following a pacemaker is very quick. You may have some discomfort at the site of implant, but this tends to be mild and can usually be controlled with regular painkillers if needed. Other than that, you’re normally back to your usual activities within a few days to weeks.

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Dr Ahsan explains that pacemaker surgery is very safe with a low risk of complications (1-2%). Complications can include lung injury, infection, bleeding, bruising, or lead displacement. Additional risks include blood clots, an air leak and Twiddler’s syndrome. We can identify most issues through routine checks; they usually do not cause long-term problems. You may experience an issue with your pacemaker, which can require reprogramming. Dizziness, hiccups, and feeling faint or passing out are signs of a pacemaker malfunction. Our specialist can offer further advice on the risks and benefits of pacemaker surgery during your appointment. Book an initial consultation today.

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In this brief video, Dr. Syed Ahsan explains that heart palpitations are caused when you become aware of irregular beats, skipped beats or even your heart stopping completely.

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“So palpitations may represent an abnormal underlying heart rhythm, for example, atrial fibrillation, which can carry some risks such as the risk of stroke. Palpitations may also represent more dangerous rhythms originating from the bottom of the heart, which can lead to fainting or cardiac arrest. It’s very unusual for that to be the case, but it can be.
Finally, palpitations is going to be completely benign. So this is the case in most people, and they can be due to things called atrial ectopics, which are extra beats coming from the top of the heart or ventricular ectopics, which are extra beats coming from the bottom of the heart. And they are not dangerous, but can be symptomatic.”

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Dr Syed Ahsan explains that coffee causes palpitations because it contains caffeine, which is a stimulant.

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Dr Syed Ahsan lists some of the diagnostic tests for heart palpitations, including ECGs, echo cardiograms, treadmill tests, and heart monitoring.

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Dr. Syed Ahsan advises that though most people do not need to seek treatment for their heart palpitations, minor lifestyle changes can reduce their occurrence. In some cases they are a symptom of an underlying issue, and should be discussed with your GP.

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Dr. Syed Ahsan, Consultant Cardiologist at Bart’s Heart Centre, explains that the risks associated with heart palpitations are dependent on your specific symptoms, health profile and ECG results.

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Dr Syed Ahsan lists some of things that you can do to prevent heart palpitations, including limiting your use of caffeine, quitting smoking, and doing Valsalva manoeuvres that change the pressure in the thoracic cavity.

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If you want to learn how to prevent heart palpitations caused by ventricular ectopic beats, watch Consultant Cardiologist, Dr Syed Ahsan, as he details what you should avoid: alcohol, caffeine in tea or coffee, a lack of sleep, and a stressful lifestyle.

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Dr. Syed Ahsan describes some of the reasons why an individual might experience heart palpitations, including supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). He recommends visiting your GP and/or a specialist in order to correctly diagnose the underlying cause.

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Dr Syed Ahsan, renowned London Consultant Cardiologist, explains that heart palpitations are a symptom of being aware of your own heart beating, and can indicate a wide variety of issues.

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Palpitations are a symptom of you being aware of your heart beating. This can be a fast regular racing of your heartbeat, or extra beats, skipped beats, or even a sensation of your heart stopping. So, it encompasses a whole variety of different types of symptoms, but palpitations is that feeling.

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Dr. Syed Ahsan explains that doctors are not fully sure why you might get sight problems with POTS, but more data is emerging as time goes by.

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POTSism can cause a multitude of symptoms. One of those includes headaches and visual disturbances. The reasons for those are not quite clear as yet, but more and more data is emerging on why patients experience those symptoms.

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Dr. Syed Ahsan explains that the prognosis for POTS is really good – it causes no serious heart syndromes, and symptoms can be managed with lifestyle measures (or rarely, with medications).

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Prognosis is really good. It’s not gonna cause you any serious heart problems. We can manage your symptoms with lifestyle measures and, if necessary, medications.

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Dr Syed Ahsan explains how physiotherapy can help with POTS syndrome by increasing your blood pressure and maintaining it at a stable level.

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Physiotherapy and exercises can help with POTS syndrome through increasing your blood pressure and maintaining the blood pressure a stable level and avoid the dips and troughs, which lead to patients with POTS syndrome being symptomatic and having palpitations and dizziness.

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Dr Syed Ahsan explains that POTS syndrome is dangerous, as it can cause a person to black out when they stand too quickly.

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POTS is not life threatening. It’s a benign condition, but if it’s causing you to feel very dizzy or causes you to pass out, you can, of course injure yourself and this can lead to problems. So it’s important that you have adequate input and treatment for POTS.

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Wondering if POTS syndrome is life-threatening? Dr. Syed Ahsan assures viewers that it is not, but explains that treatment is about managing palpitations and stopping you from blacking out.

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POTS is not life-threatening. It’s about dealing with the symptoms that you experience and trying to reduce the frequency of your palpitations, shortness of breath, and stop you from blacking out.

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Dr. Syed Ahsan asserts that diet is really important for POTS syndrome, and patients are encouraged to drink 2-3 litres of fluid each day. Patients should eat small, frequent meals.

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Dr Syed Ahsan explains that POTS syndrome is diagnosed by testing if your resting heart rate increases rapidly when going from sitting or lying down to standing.

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POTS is diagnosed very simply, if your resting heart rate increases significantly on standing, from sitting down or lying down. And they’re clear measures as to what the change has to be. In addition, we can use other tests, such as Holter monitoring, tilt table tests, to give us a bit more…

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The prognosis for SVT is very good as it is a manageable condition that doesn’t usually cause dangerous cardiac symptoms or cardiac arrest. However, it can cause unpleasant symptoms that we treat with catheter ablation or medications. To learn which treatment is most appropriate for you, book an appointment with Dr Syed Ahsan.

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Outlook for SVT is very good. It’s a condition that causes symptoms but tends not to be dangerous or cause cardiac arrest. And nowadays, we can fix this for you.

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Dr Syed Ahsan explains that SVT is very rarely fatal or dangerous. However, it can cause a heart attack in severe cases and syncope (fainting), which may lead to related injuries. Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome, a condition that causes SVT, carries an extremely small risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD). People with symptomatic WPW have a slightly higher risk of SCD than those that are asymptomatic. Contact our clinic to discover the severity of your condition and the best way to treat it.

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It’s very rare for SVT to be fatal. One condition known as Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome carries a very, very small risk of sudden cardiac death.

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Dr Syed Ahsan details the simple techniques that may help you stop SVT symptoms, such as breathing exercises (the Valsalva manoeuvre) and cold water. Your diet and exercise regime can also help you avoid SVT episodes. Read our blog to learn more: Lifestyle changes to help manage arrhythmia.

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So there are some really simple techniques. These are called- known as a Valsalva manoeuvre. And these involve breathing exercises or using cold water, and your heart specialist can talk you through these in a bit more detail. But these can often be used to terminate the SVT at home.

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Dr Syed Ahsan explains that you may feel dizzy, experience shortness of breath, or even blackout if you have supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). The main symptom is an abnormally fast heartbeat. Other symptoms include chest pain, tiredness, sweating, and palpitations. If you experience symptoms of SVT, we recommend booking an appointment with a cardiologist. Contact our clinic to arrange a consultation with Dr Ahsan, our Heart Rhythm Specialist.

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SVT causes palpitations, feeling your heart racing very fast, dizziness, shortness of breath, and sometimes blackouts.

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Dr Syed Ahsan defines supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) as fast, regular heartbeats originating from the top of the heart. SVT is an umbrella term for a group of heart rhythm disorders, including paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT), atrial fibrillation (AF), atrial flutter and Wolff–Parkinson–White (WPW) syndrome. SVT can cause palpitations, dizziness, syncope (fainting) and other symptoms. Watch the rest of the videos in our SVT playlist to learn more about SVT.

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SVT stands for supraventricular tachycardia. This is a fast, regular rhythm originating from the top chambers of your heart and can cause symptoms of palpitations, dizziness, or even fainting. SVTs can be treated very easily and with very good success rates.

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Dr Syed Ahsan lists the common supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) triggers: a stressful situation, tea, coffee or too much alcohol. Other triggers include a lack of sleep, taking specific medications for asthma, colds and allergies, and drug misuse. A change in posture can also trigger SVT. However, most people with SVT have no set trigger, making it hard to diagnose. Book an appointment with Dr Ahsan if you think you might have SVT.

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Dr Syed Ahsan advises that if you have had several palpitation episodes that make you feel unwell or a single prolonged one, it is wise to book an appointment with your GP or a heart specialist. Dr Ahsan is our Heart Rhythm Specialist at London Heart Clinic and regularly performs ablation procedures to treat abnormal heart rhythms such as SVT. For high-quality, personalised care, book an appointment at our clinic.

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Dr Syed Ahsan describes the three main types of SVT and their causes in our video. The first is atrial tachycardia, caused by a focus firing off at the top of your heart. The second is atrioventricular reciprocating tachycardia (AVRT), caused by extra wiring between the top and bottom of your heart. The third is atrioventricular nodal reentry tachycardia (AVNRT), caused by extra wiring within the pacemaker of your heart. Visit our page to learn more about supraventricular tachycardia.