Your checklist
A few simple things that will help you get the most from your appointment.
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Wear comfortable clothing You may have a resting ECG. Clothing that allows easy access to your wrists and chest (or can be lifted slightly) makes this quicker and more comfortable.
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Think about your triggers When do palpitations happen? What makes them better or worse? Think about your alcohol intake — frequency and amount. Any patterns — morning vs evening, during exercise, with caffeine, after alcohol, when stressed, at rest — are useful. You do not need to write anything down; just have a think beforehand.
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Note any medications and supplements you take Include prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements — including omega-3 fish oil. Marine omega-3 supplementation has been associated with a higher rate of atrial fibrillation in a meta-analysis of large randomised trials (Gencer et al., Circulation 2021, doi:10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.121.055654), which is why it is worth listing — not a reason to stop anything before you have discussed it. If you have a repeat prescription list or a medication summary from your GP, you are welcome to bring it or a photo of it.
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Bring a list of questions — there is no rush There is time to ask everything you want to. If you have questions about the ECG, the monitoring device, the self-guided booklet, or your results, write them down so you do not forget.
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Eat and drink normally beforehand There is no need to fast or avoid caffeine for this appointment. Eat and drink as you normally would.
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Allow 30 minutes for the appointment Most appointments run to about 30 minutes, though some run a little longer if monitoring setup takes extra time. Please do not feel rushed.
Getting there
By public transport
- Close to Finchley Road Underground station (Jubilee and Metropolitan lines)
- London Overground and several bus routes stop nearby
What to expect
During your appointment
- Dr Ahmad will review your symptoms, medical history, and triggers in detail
- An ECG on the day if it is clinically appropriate
- You will receive a clear explanation of findings on the day
- If longer rhythm monitoring would be useful, I will explain what is appropriate and how it can be arranged through your GP or NHS team
After your appointment
- A letter is sent to your GP after every consultation
- You can email drmahmoodclinic@pm.me if you have questions afterwards
- Most people continue their ongoing care with their GP; I will only suggest a follow-up where there is a genuine clinical reason
Important: If you develop chest pain, fainting, severe breathlessness, or any symptom that feels like an emergency before your appointment, do not wait — call 999 or go to your nearest A&E immediately.