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Articles for patients about heart rhythm, devices and tests. Each one has been reviewed by a doctor.
8 min read
What a pacemaker, an ICD, a CRT-P and a CRT-D do, how many leads they have and who may need them: a short table and a simple explanation.
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Simple information on the difference between single- and dual-chamber pacemakers, preparing for implantation, the procedure, recovery, risks, checkups and the battery.
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Everyday life with a pacemaker or ICD: phone distance, magnets, induction cooktops, airports, MRI and other procedures, sports, driving and your device card.
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A simple explanation of what an invasive EP study is, why it is needed, how to prepare, how it is done, what you feel, its risks and how it may turn into ablation.
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What an ICD does, who needs it, how a shock feels and what to do after it: when to rest, when to tell your doctor and when to call 103.
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What happens when the ventricles do not contract at the same time, how CRT-P differs from CRT-D, who it is recommended for and how implantation differs from a standard pacemaker.
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A racing heart is not always dangerous, but some signs do not allow waiting. What to do, when to call 103 and which tests are needed.
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How are caffeine, alcohol, anxiety, weight, physical activity and sleep linked to the heart rhythm? ESC recommendations on atrial fibrillation in plain language.
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An irregular heartbeat or a feeling that the heart has “stopped” is often linked to extra beats. They may be harmless; only tests can tell.
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Did your watch or phone report an irregular rhythm or show a perfect ECG? It is not a diagnosis: what to do with the recording and when to call 103.
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What to do if your pulse is slow: when bradycardia may be normal, which tests are done and whether everyone needs a pacemaker.
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Fainting is usually not serious, but its cause must be found by a doctor. Learn when to call for emergency help and what tests may be done.
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How do an ECG and a Holter differ? Which monitoring is chosen based on how often symptoms occur, and how to prepare for the test — a simple explanation.
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Were you told your pulse is “irregular”, or was fibrillation found? What this means, how it is linked to stroke and the directions of treatment, explained in plain language.
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Does your heart suddenly start racing and then stop on its own? A simple explanation of supraventricular tachycardia, the ECG during an attack, the Valsalva maneuver and ablation.
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Cardiologist or arrhythmologist? Who an arrhythmologist is, when to see one, and what to prepare so the visit is useful: ECG, medicines, a diary, questions.
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