Preparing for an appointment

If you think you may have supraventricular tachycardia, make an appointment with your family doctor. If it's found early, your treatment may be easier and more effective. You may be referred to a doctor trained in heart conditions (cardiologist).

Appointments can be brief. Because there's often a lot to discuss, it's a good idea to be prepared for your appointment. Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment, and what to expect from your doctor.

What you can do

• Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions. At the time you make the appointment, be sure to ask if there's anything you need to do in advance, such as restrict your diet. You may need to do this if your doctor orders any blood tests.
• Write down any symptoms you're having, including any that may seem unrelated to heart arrhythmia.
• Write down key personal information, including a family history of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure or diabetes, and any major stresses or recent life changes.
• Make a list of all medications, vitamins or supplements that you're taking. Include those bought without a prescription.
• Take a family member or friend along, if possible. Sometimes it can be difficult to remember all the information provided to you during an appointment. Someone who accompanies you may remember something that you missed or forgot.
• Write down questions to ask your doctor.

For supraventricular tachycardia, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:

• What's the most likely cause of my symptoms?
• Are there other possible causes for my symptoms?
• What kinds of tests will I need? Do I need to do anything to prepare for these tests?
• What's the most appropriate treatment?
• Are there any foods or drinks that you recommend I avoid? Is there anything you suggest that I add to my diet?
• What's an appropriate level of physical activity?
• How often should I be screened for heart disease or other complications of supraventricular tachycardia?
• I have other health conditions. How can I best manage these conditions together?
• Is there a generic alternative to the medicine you're prescribing?
• Are there any brochures or other printed material that I can take home with me? What websites do you recommend visiting?

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you many questions. Being ready to answer them may save time to go over anything you want to spend more time on. Your doctor may ask:

• When did you first begin having symptoms?
• Do you always have symptoms, or do they come and go?
• How severe are your symptoms?
• Does anything seem to improve your symptoms?
• What, if anything, appears to worsen your symptoms?
• Do you have a family history of abnormal heart rhythms?