Specialist help for heart palpitations
If your heart races, flutters, pounds or skips a beat, a consultant cardiologist can find out why, and what to do about it. Most palpitations are harmless, but it is worth getting a clear answer.
What we offer
- Appointments with a UK consultant cardiologist
- Video or telephone, from home, wherever you are in the UK
- Heart rhythm monitoring arranged if needed
- A clear plan, and a letter for you and your GP
How we can help
Choose the appointment that suits you. If you're not sure, send us an enquiry and we'll call you to talk it through.
Video consultation
A face-to-face conversation with a consultant cardiologist on your phone, tablet or computer. Ideal for a first assessment of your symptoms.
Telephone consultation
The same specialist assessment by phone, if you prefer, or for follow-up once your tests are back.
Heart rhythm monitoring
Where needed, we arrange an ECG monitor (Holter) worn for 24 hours to several days to record your heart rhythm during symptoms.
Three simple steps
- Send us an enquiryTell us how to reach you and which appointment you'd like. We'll call you back, confirm the fee and book a time.
- Speak to a consultant cardiologistWe'll go through your symptoms, medical history, medicines and any ECGs or smartwatch recordings you have.
- Get a clear planYou'll get an explanation, any tests you need, and treatment advice, with a letter for you and your GP.
Is it worth getting palpitations checked?
Most palpitations come from harmless extra beats, or from your heart responding normally to stress, caffeine or exercise. But some are caused by a heart rhythm problem that is easy to treat once it has been found, such as atrial fibrillation or SVT.
A specialist assessment can usually tell the difference, and gives you peace of mind either way.
Read about palpitationsUnderstanding your palpitations
Clear, practical information about the most common causes of palpitations and how they are treated.
Ectopic beats
Missed, skipped or "extra" beats. Very common and usually harmless.
Atrial fibrillation
An irregular, often fast heartbeat that raises the risk of stroke.
SVT and AVRT
Sudden bursts of a very fast, regular heartbeat that stop just as suddenly.
Atrial flutter
A fast, regular rhythm related to AF, often cured by ablation.
Other causes
Caffeine, alcohol, stress, thyroid problems, medicines and more.
A normal heart
Why you can feel your heartbeat even when everything is working normally.
Tests
ECGs, heart monitors, scans and blood tests, and what they show.
Treatment
From reassurance and lifestyle changes to medicines and ablation.
Led by a consultant cardiologist
Palpitation Clinic is led by Dr Aftab Gill, a consultant interventional cardiologist who has worked in the NHS for nearly 30 years, together with consultant colleagues.
Every appointment is with a consultant cardiologist, not a nurse or a call handler, so your symptoms are assessed by a specialist from the start.
About usWhen not to wait for an appointment
Call 999 if palpitations come with chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting or near-fainting, or if you feel very unwell. For urgent advice, call NHS 111 or speak to your GP.