Preparing for an appointment

Whether you first see your family doctor or get emergency care, you'll likely be referred to a doctor trained in heart conditions (cardiologist) for one or more appointments for a complete evaluation.

If possible, bring along a family member or friend who can give some moral support and help you keep track of new information. Because there may be a lot to discuss, it will be helpful to prepare a list of questions ahead of time.

Your list should include:

• Symptoms you've experienced, including any that may seem unrelated to your heart
• Key personal information, including any major stresses or recent life changes
• Medications, including vitamins or supplements
• Questions to ask your doctor

List your questions from most important to least important in case time runs out. Basic questions to ask your doctor include:

• What is likely causing my fast heart rate?
• What kinds of tests do I need?
• What's the most appropriate treatment?
• What kind of risks does my heart condition create?
• How will we monitor my heart?
• How often will I need follow-up appointments?
• How will other conditions I have or medications I take affect my heart problem?
• Do I need to restrict my activities?
• Are there any brochures or other printed material that I can take home with me? What websites do you recommend visiting?

In addition to the questions that you've prepared to ask your doctor, don't hesitate to ask additional questions.

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions. Being ready to answer them may reserve time to go over any points you want to spend more time on. Your doctor may ask:

• When did you first begin experiencing symptoms?
• How often have you had episodes of a fast heartbeat?
• How long have the episodes lasted?
• Does anything, such as exercise, stress or caffeine, seem to trigger or worsen episodes?
• Does anyone in your family have heart disease or a history of arrhythmias?
• Has anyone in your family experienced cardiac arrest or died suddenly?
• Do you smoke?
• How much alcohol or caffeine do you use?
• Do you use recreational drugs?
• Are you being treated for high blood pressure, high cholesterol or other conditions that may affect your circulatory system?
• What medications do you take for these conditions, and do you take them as prescribed?