If you've been suffering from palpitations, breathlessness, fatigue, dizziness or reduced exercise tolerance, you might be wondering if there's anything you can do to fix it.
The good news is, there's a new procedure being used at Nuffield Health Cheltenham Hospital, called cardioversion.
SoGlos speaks to consultant cardiologist, Dr Salahaddin Ubaid, who is currently performing the procedures, about what's involved and what patients can expect after undergoing cardioversion.
What is cardioversion?
Cardioversion is a medical procedure used to restore a normal heart rhythm in patients who have an abnormal rhythm, most commonly atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter.
It works by delivering a carefully controlled electrical shock to the heart, which resets the electrical activity and allows the heart to return to a normal rhythm.
It is a
well-established and evidence-based treatment used routinely in cardiology.
What patient would need to undergo cardioversion?
Cardioversion is typically offered to patients who have developed an abnormal heart rhythm that is causing symptoms such as palpitations, breathlessness, fatigue, dizziness or reduced exercise tolerance.
It is particularly helpful for patients with atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter where restoring normal rhythm is expected to improve symptoms, quality of life or heart function.
Each patient is carefully assessed to
ensure cardioversion is appropriate and safe for them.
How is the procedure carried out?
Cardioversion is performed as a planned day-case procedure. The patient is given a short-acting anaesthetic so they are asleep and comfortable throughout.
Adhesive pads are placed on the chest and a controlled electrical shock is delivered to restore normal rhythm. The procedure itself takes only a few minutes and patients are continuously monitored before, during and after the treatment.
Blood-thinning medication is
carefully managed beforehand to minimise any risk of stroke.
What is recovery like? When can you go back to normal activity?
Recovery is usually very quick. Patients are monitored for a short period after the procedure and can usually go home the same day.
Most people feel back to normal within 24 hours and can return to their usual activities shortly afterwards, although we advise avoiding driving and strenuous activity for the rest of the day.
Mild chest
skin soreness can occur but typically settles quickly.
What will life be like for the patient after the procedure?
Many patients notice a significant improvement in symptoms such as breathlessness, fatigue and palpitations once normal rhythm is restored.
This can translate into better exercise tolerance and improved quality of life.
Some patients may need ongoing medication to help maintain rhythm or control heart rate and follow-up is important, as atrial fibrillation can recur.
The aim is always to provide long-term rhythm control
and reduce future complications.
Why should patients go to Nuffield Health Cheltenham Hospital as a private patient for this procedure?
At Nuffield Health Cheltenham Hospital, patients benefit from rapid access to assessment, treatment and follow-up in a calm and supportive environment.
The cardioversion service is delivered by an experienced consultant-led team using modern equipment and evidence-based protocols.
Being treated locally allows patients to receive
high-quality care closer to home, with continuity from consultation through to
recovery and minimal waiting times.
How do you feel about delivering this medical procedure?
We are very proud to be offering cardioversion as part of our expanding cardiac services.
For many patients, restoring a normal heart rhythm can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life.
From a clinical perspective, introducing this service allows us to deliver safe, evidence-based cardiac care more efficiently and closer to home, ensuring patients receive timely treatment and continuity of care.
To enquire about cardioversion, call the patient services team on 01242 246574.
