Private Cardiology in London and Manchester
SameDayDoctor can provide the peace of mind you need by seeing you the same day to assess any worries you may have about your heart.
The simplest first tests for your heart are to check your blood pressure (BP) and your blood cholesterol and lipids. These can be done in a quick and easy visit to any SameDayDoctor heart clinic with results the same or next day. We can do a resting Electrocardiogram (ECG) in the clinic with fast interpretation and we can also give advice on steps to take to improve your heart health. We can also organise 24-hour blood pressure monitoring if required.
If you wish more in-depth testing then a heart exercise test or ‘stress test’ can be arranged to analyse how the heart copes during strenuous exercise. The test looks at the electrical activity in the heart while a person is running on a treadmill.
For concerns about blood pressure over a period of time, we can arrange for this to be measured over a 24 hour period. Similarly, if there are concerns about the heart rhythm then a 24 hour ECG can be organised.
The SameDayDoctor Executive Heart and Health Screen incorporates the Executive Health screen with an exercise ECG or heart ‘stress test’.
CT Coronary Angiogram
The coronary CT angiogram scan is used to find out if the blood vessels around the heart are narrowed or becoming blocked. It can be used if you have symptoms, such as chest pain, that may suggest a narrowing of the blood vessels or if you are at risk of heart disease and wish to have a definitive answer as to whether you have any ‘furring up’ of the blood vessels around your heart. As part of this scan, you also get a ‘calcium score’. This is a guide to the overall amount of furring up of the blood vessels.
In a coronary CT angiogram, you are given an injection of dye via a needle in your arm. It is quick, safe and you can drive or resume normal activities afterwards.
Echocardiogram
The echocardiogram is very useful in detecting abnormalities in heart valves and also looking at the anatomy and functioning of the heart muscle. As such, it is invaluable in detecting early signs of many cardiac disorders.
Common Symptoms: When to See a Cardiologist
Heart problems can present with a variety of symptoms, some of which can be quite serious and require immediate medical attention. It’s important to be aware of the following symptoms that may indicate a heart problem:
- Chest Pain or Discomfort: Often described as a pressure, tightness, or squeezing sensation in the chest.
- Shortness of Breath: Feeling out of breath during everyday activities or while resting.
- Palpitations: Irregular or rapid heartbeat, fluttering, or a feeling that the heart is skipping beats.
- Fatigue: Persistent tiredness or weakness, even with adequate rest.
- Swelling: Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet may indicate fluid retention due to heart issues.
- Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Feeling faint or dizzy, particularly with physical exertion.
- Nausea or Indigestion: Unexplained nausea or indigestion, sometimes accompanied by other symptoms.
- Pain in Other Areas: Discomfort may radiate to the shoulders, arms (especially the left arm), back, neck, jaw, or upper stomach.
- Cold Sweats: Sweating excessively and unexpectedly.
- Fainting or Near Fainting: Sudden loss of consciousness or a near-fainting episode.
Do not wait to get medical help if you experience any of these symptoms, especially if you have pain or discomfort in your chest. Consider visiting the nearest SameDayDoctor Clinic in London or Manchester for prompt and expert care. Our private cardiologists are dedicated to ensuring your well-being and providing timely assessment and treatment. Don’t delay—your health is our priority.