Your checklist
Eight simple things that will help you get the most from your appointment.
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Download the Kardia app on your phone Available free on the App Store and Google Play. Search “Kardia by AliveCor”. You do not need to create an account before your appointment — Dr Ahmad will help you set it up.
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Bring your phone — fully charged The Kardia app connects to the KardiaMobile device via your phone. A fully charged phone makes it easier to set up monitoring at the 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 — especially omega-3 fish oil, which recent evidence suggests may increase arrhythmia risk. 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
- A short walk from Hampstead
- Reachable by local bus routes
By car
- Street parking available on Church Road and surrounding streets
- The Centre Court Shopping car park is a short walk (Hampstead Bridge, 7PA)
- Parking is generally easy on Tuesday mornings
What to expect
During your appointment
- Dr Ahmad will review your symptoms, medical history, and triggers in detail
- You can choose to have a 12-lead ECG on the day (£49, takes about 10 seconds)
- You will receive a clear explanation of findings on the day
- If suitable, you can start home rhythm monitoring immediately (£70, one week) — the device will be set up before you leave
After your appointment
- A written clinical summary will be sent to your GP within 5 working days (with your consent)
- If you start monitoring, you will use the Kardia app to record whenever you feel symptoms, and once each morning at rest, for one week
- You can email [email protected] at any time during your monitoring with questions
- There is no follow-up appointment — you keep your Kardia recordings and email any concerns to [email protected]
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.