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Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC)
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Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy at HCA UK
Why choose us?
You’ll be cared for by leading cardiac specialists with extensive experience diagnosing and treating arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC). Our cardiology consultants work closely across our hospital network to ensure you receive the most accurate assessment and the most effective treatment plan.
With high-quality inpatient facilities and 15 outpatient and diagnostic centres, we use advanced imaging and monitoring technology to support specialist ARVC care, so you can rest assured you’re in safe hands. Because ARVC commonly runs in families, we’ll review your family history to provide a complete picture of your heart health.
With high-quality inpatient facilities and 15 outpatient and diagnostic centres, we use advanced imaging and monitoring technology to support specialist ARVC care, so you can rest assured you’re in safe hands. Because ARVC commonly runs in families, we’ll review your family history to provide a complete picture of your heart health.
Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy is a heart condition that affects the right ventricular myocardium. Over time, the heart muscle can weaken as healthy cells are replaced by fatty or fibrous tissue.
ARVC is usually genetic, although it can sometimes develop in people with no family history. As the muscle thins and stretches, the heart can struggle to pump blood effectively, which may lead to abnormal rhythms or, in some cases, heart failure.
ARVC is usually genetic, although it can sometimes develop in people with no family history. As the muscle thins and stretches, the heart can struggle to pump blood effectively, which may lead to abnormal rhythms or, in some cases, heart failure.
Many people with ARVC have no symptoms for a long time and may not realise anything is wrong. When symptoms do appear, they can vary and may become more noticeable over time. These can include:
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Fatigue
- Heart palpitations
- A persistent cough
- Shortness of breath when lying down or during activity
- Swelling in the legs and other areas
ARVC occurs because heart muscle cells and the connections between them don’t work the way they should. This causes areas of the right ventricle to be replaced by fat and fibrous tissue. As the muscle becomes thin and stretched, it can no longer contract properly, making it harder for the heart to pump blood around the body. These areas of scar tissue and fat are also a substrate for heart rhythm irregularities.
Although the severity is unpredictable, this change in structure can lead to shortness of breath, abnormal rhythms, heart failure and, in some cases, cardiac arrest.
Although the severity is unpredictable, this change in structure can lead to shortness of breath, abnormal rhythms, heart failure and, in some cases, cardiac arrest.
Because ARVC is mainly genetic, there’s no certain way to stop it from developing. However, you can reduce the risk of complications and protect your heart by staying informed and following medical advice.
You might consider:
You might consider:
- Regular heart checks if ARVC runs in your family
- Speaking to a genetic counsellor for tailored guidance
- Avoiding intense or competitive exercise if advised
- Maintaining good heart health through balanced eating, staying active at a safe level and not smoking
- Taking any prescribed medication and attending follow-up appointments
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Tests and scans for ARVC at HCA UK
Expert cardiac diagnosis
We offer a wide range of tests and scans to help diagnose arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy and understand how it affects your heart. Your cardiology consultant will recommend the most suitable investigations based on your symptoms and medical history. These may include:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG)
- Echocardiogram
- Holter monitor
- Exercise ECG
- Cardiac MRI
- Angiography
- Electrophysiology study
- Blood tests
- Genetic tests
Treatments for ARVC at HCA UK
Personalised treatment for your heart
At HCA UK, you’ll have access to effective and carefully tailored treatment for arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy. If you’re diagnosed with ARVC, your cardiology consultant will talk you through the options and guide you towards the most suitable plan for your needs. These may include:
- Blood thinners
- Catheter ablation
- Implantable cardioverter defibrillator
- Medication to control your heartbeat
- Medicines to help with fluid retention
- Medication to reduce your heart
Accessing private health care
Self-pay
You don’t need health insurance to be seen quickly. If you’re looking for a diagnosis or treatment and don’t want to wait, all our private healthcare services – from private GP appointments through to surgery and aftercare – can be paid for as and when you need them.
And to give you peace of mind from the start, we’ll offer you a clear and transparent quote outlining exactly what’s included in your self-pay package.
Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy FAQs
Yes, ARVC can change over time as healthy heart muscle is replaced by fatty or fibrous tissue. These changes can affect how well the right ventricle pumps blood. However, early treatment and regular monitoring can help make the condition easier to manage.
Your cardiology specialist can help you understand what to expect, and our cardiac team is here to support you at every stage of your treatment.
Your cardiology specialist can help you understand what to expect, and our cardiac team is here to support you at every stage of your treatment.
Yes, it’s possible to enjoy a full and active life with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy. Your cardiology specialist will tailor a personalised treatment plan just for you to help you continue living a comfortable and fulfilling life.
Some types of exercise can place the heart under extra strain, which can make ARVC symptoms worse. High-intensity and competitive exercise should be avoided as these are more likely to cause concern.
However, gentle activities such as walking or swimming may still be enjoyed. Your consultant will advise you on how to stay active and healthy with ARVC.
However, gentle activities such as walking or swimming may still be enjoyed. Your consultant will advise you on how to stay active and healthy with ARVC.
If ARVC runs in your family, it may be a good idea to speak to a cardiology specialist for advice. They may recommend heart checks to conduct an early assessment of your cardiac health and give you peace of mind.
Yes, arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy can affect younger people, especially if there’s a family history. If there is a history of ARVC or you or a loved one experiences the symptoms of ARVC, early diagnosis is essential to help protect long-term heart health.
Your cardiology consultant will discuss any risks with you at your initial consultation and will only recommend options that are safe and suitable for you. Some risks include reactions to medications, changes in your heart rhythm, and complications from procedures.
All the risks and steps will be explained to you clearly so you can make an informed decision about your treatment.
All the risks and steps will be explained to you clearly so you can make an informed decision about your treatment.
Our patient stories
Steven's story
Steven, 58, has practiced as a property barrister for 30 years and always been as active as possible through regular exercise and healthy eating. He was incredibly aware of the need to have good heart health as a result of cardiac problems in his family history, and consequently was incredibly focused on keeping himself on top form. But just one health screen changed that.
Judith's cardiac treatment
For years, Judith knew there was something wrong with her heart. At London Bridge Hospital, she finally had the life-changing treatment she needed.
Chris's story: Atrial fibrillation
Since he was a teenager, Chris (now 44) had suffered from an irregular heartbeat. Whenever his heart would beat too fast, he was told he was having a panic attack.
“Dr Konstantinos Savvatis is outstanding in his field, he listened to every word I said and left no stone unturned before giving me a prognosis. I feel so privileged and safe to be under his care.”
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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.