FAQs
Do you offer face to face and virtual consultations?
Yes – I offer both. I prefer face to face consultations, but there are situations where a phone or video call may be more appropriate (eg. long journey times, isolating, difficulty with transport).
Can I bring someone with me to the consultation?
Yes, but because of Coronavirus restrictions it is best to let us know beforehand so we can confirm this is possible. I highly recommend bringing a partner or loved one with you if you are happy to share your personal medical information, but the organisation rules are continuously changing in an effort to keep Covid out of hospitals and it is best to check first.
Do you offer face to face and virtual consultations?
Yes – within symptom limits. Before a formal diagnosis I would advise you to stay active but to stop and rest with the onset of symptoms. If you already have a diagnosis of heart disease we will discuss specific recommendations with you, but in general we advise moderate exercise to a level where you are able to walk and talk in a short full sentence.
What is a CT coronary angiogram?
We use a CT scan machine, that is used for many scanning applications of the body, to do a very rapid scan of the beating heart to look for narrowing of the coronary arteries. You need a drip in your arm to have contrast, and we usually give you beta blockers first to slow your heart rate down and a spray under the tongue to widen the arteries. It takes about half an hour in all, although the scan itself usually only take a few minutes.
What is an echocardiogram?
Also known as an echo this where an ultrasound machine (identical to a scan on pregnant women to check their babies) is used to scan the heart looking at the muscle and valve function. It is safe and painless other than a bit of pressure from the probe and takes about half an hour.
Do you offer face to face and virtual consultations?
Yes – I offer both. I prefer face to face consultations, but there are situations where a phone or video call may be more appropriate (eg. long journey times, isolating, difficulty with transport).
What is a CT coronary angiogram?
We use a CT scan machine, that is used for many scanning applications of the body, to do a very rapid scan of the beating heart to look for narrowing of the coronary arteries. You need a drip in your arm to have contrast, and we usually give you beta blockers first to slow your heart rate down and a spray under the tongue to widen the arteries. It takes about half an hour in all, although the scan itself usually only take a few minutes.