Preparing for your appointment

Download the symptom diary (PDF)

Your symptoms

Try to note each episode as soon as you can afterwards. Our printable symptom diary has a column for each of these:

• the date and time, and what you were doing
• how it felt: fast, pounding, fluttering, skipped or missed beats, or irregular
• whether it started and stopped suddenly or gradually
• how long it lasted, and what stopped it
• other symptoms, such as dizziness, breathlessness, chest discomfort or sweating
• possible triggers: caffeine, alcohol, poor sleep, stress, exercise or a large meal

Check your pulse during an episode

Place two fingers on the thumb side of your wrist, or the side of your neck. Count the beats for 30 seconds and double it. Note whether the beat feels regular or irregular. A reading from a smartwatch, fitness tracker or home blood pressure monitor is also helpful.

Recordings and results

• ECGs or heart monitor reports from your GP or hospital
• smartwatch or KardiaMobile ECG recordings: save them as PDFs or screenshots, with the date and time
• recent blood test results, if you have them
• any hospital or GP letters about your heart

We'll tell you how to send these to us securely once your appointment is booked. Please don't send medical information through the website form.

Your medicines and history

• a list of your medicines, including inhalers, supplements and anything bought over the counter
• other medical conditions, such as thyroid problems, high blood pressure or anxiety
• any family history of heart rhythm problems, or sudden death at a young age

On the day

• for a video call, find a quiet, private space with good signal, and test your camera and microphone
• for a telephone call, keep your phone charged and nearby at the agreed time
• have your diary, medicines list and recordings to hand
• write down the questions you want to ask

Find out what happens at your consultation, or request an appointment.