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Ventricular tachycardia (VT)
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Ventricular tachycardia (VT) at HCA UK
Why choose us?
When you’re suffering from worrying heart symptoms, we offer reassuringly fast access to the latest tests and imaging. You can expect accurate diagnosis and effective care at every stage, from leading cardiac specialists at our network of private hospitals and diagnostic centres.
We've cared for nearly 110,000 cardiac patients in the last three years* with a 99% survival rate for all cardiac surgeries. No wonder 97% of our patients are likely to recommend HCA UK to their family and friends.**
*from 2022 to 2024
**Based on our 2024 patient satisfaction survey report
VT is a rapid heart rhythm caused by abnormal electrical impulses in the lower chambers of your heart (ventricles). When the ventricles pump too quickly, your heart can't circulate blood efficiently. This can cause symptoms like palpitations, breathlessness, chest pain, dizziness and even fainting. In serious cases, it can lead to cardiac arrest.
At HCA UK, we can provide access to leading cardiac specialists with expertise in diagnosing and treating a range of heart rhythm disorders.
NB. ventricular tachycardia is a serious heart condition that requires prompt medical attention. If you feel experience and fainting, dizziness, a sustained rapid heartbeat or any of the symptoms we’ve described, you should go immediately to A&E.
VT may develop if you have a history of a heart attack and your heart muscle has been replaced by scar tissue. It can also be caused by genetic disorders as well as diseases of the heart muscle known as cardiomyopathies. People with structurally normal hearts can also develop this condition, especially at times of high stress or if you’re suffering from high blood pressure.
Your consultant will want to investigate the causes of your ventricular tachycardia in depth, to understand whether it comes from structural issues or lifestyle factors.
Your consultant will want to investigate the causes of your ventricular tachycardia in depth, to understand whether it comes from structural issues or lifestyle factors.
You may experience an episode of VT after taking medication, drugs or stimulants, or because of electrolyte imbalances, including low magnesium or potassium. Severe stress can also bring on an episode.
Like other types of arrhythmias, VT affects your heart's ability to circulate blood throughout your body. The condition can feel like your heart’s racing or fluttering (palpitations). Other symptoms can include dizziness, light-headedness, shortness of breath or chest pain. In more serious cases, a sudden drop in blood pressure can lead to faintness or blackouts.
Ventricular tachycardia is considered to be a serious medical condition that requires immediate assessment and treatment. Rapid or sustained ventricular tachycardia can lead to an inadequate blood supply to your body. This can cause a loss of consciousness or even stop your heart beating (cardiac arrest).
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Rapid access to cardiology tests and scans
Appointments available in as little as 24 hours
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Across London, Manchester and Birmingham
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TESTS AND SCANS AT HCA UK
Fast access to diagnostics for ventricular tachycardia
Your consultant will begin by asking you questions about your medical history and symptoms, before carrying out a physical examination to check your heart. This will help them decide which cardiac tests and scans are best for an accurate diagnosis. They will discuss the pros and cons of each scan with you before you decide to go ahead.
The scans they may recommend may include a Holter monitor, a portable ECG recording device to monitor your heart over time, or electrocardiogram (ECG) that records the rate, rhythm and electrical activity of your heart.
Sometimes other tests are needed like an exercise ECG, which happens as you walk on a treadmill. Alternatively, you may have an implantable loop recorder. You will also have an echocardiogram, or ultrasound of your heart, and a coronary angiogram.
The scans they may recommend may include a Holter monitor, a portable ECG recording device to monitor your heart over time, or electrocardiogram (ECG) that records the rate, rhythm and electrical activity of your heart.
Sometimes other tests are needed like an exercise ECG, which happens as you walk on a treadmill. Alternatively, you may have an implantable loop recorder. You will also have an echocardiogram, or ultrasound of your heart, and a coronary angiogram.
PREMIUM CARDIAC CARE AT HCA UK
Treatment options for ventricular tachycardia
The best treatment options for you will depend on the type of arrhythmia you have and the intensity of your symptoms.
HCA UK is home to highly advanced cardiac care facilities. You’ll be cared for by a dedicated group of consultant cardiologists who work in multidisciplinary teams with cardiac physiologists and clinical nurse specialists. If you're diagnosed with VT, your consultant will discuss your treatment options to determine the best approach for you depending on your symptoms. They might include:
- Electrical cardioversion
- Drug treatment
- Catheter ablation
- Having a defibrillator fitted
- Cardiac surgery or angioplasty if you have coronary artery disease
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.
FAQs
Yes, ventricular tachycardia (VT) is a type of arrhythmia where the heart beats faster than usual (tachycardia). That faster heartbeat can make it harder than usual for your heart to pump enough blood around your body, leading to dizziness, loss of consciousness or even cardiac arrest.
NB. ventricular tachycardia is a serious heart condition that requires prompt medical attention. If you experience fainting, dizziness, a sustained rapid heartbeat or any of the symptoms we’ve described, you should go immediately to A&E.
NB. ventricular tachycardia is a serious heart condition that requires prompt medical attention. If you experience fainting, dizziness, a sustained rapid heartbeat or any of the symptoms we’ve described, you should go immediately to A&E.
Men are at a greater risk of ventricular tachycardia, and that risk increases with age. People with a history of heart conditions, congenital heart defects or current heart disease are at the greatest risk overall. However, it’s possible for people with a structurally normal heart to experience VT due to the effects of stress, certain drugs or stimulants, high blood pressure, smoking, and heavy drinking.
Having ventricular tachycardia doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll need surgery. If medical management with anti-arrhythmic medication or lifestyle changes don’t relieve your symptoms, a minimally invasive procedure called catheter ablation may be an effective treatment instead.
Your consultant will carefully discuss all the options, so you’ll be able to decide what’s best for you.
Your consultant will carefully discuss all the options, so you’ll be able to decide what’s best for you.
While VT can be hereditary, many people also suffer from increased risk due to acquired heart disease or lifestyle factors.
The prognosis for ventricular tachycardia depends on the overall structure and condition of your heart and whether there is underlying heart disease. In most cases, with early intervention and good preventative measures, many people with VT will experience good outcomes and recovery.
Outcomes for VT catheter ablation are generally good in terms of symptom relief and complication rates. You may need multiple procedures, depending on your condition.
It’s important to speak to your consultant about the different options to ensure you’re receiving the right treatment.
It’s important to speak to your consultant about the different options to ensure you’re receiving the right treatment.
The cost of your treatment depends on the package of care your consultant recommends. For your peace of mind, we offer transparent pricing and we’ll outline exactly what’s included and the overall amount you can expect to pay. It’s important to know that the final cost of your treatment will depend on the specific diagnostic and treatment plan that your consultant agrees is right for you.
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Solving Alex’s undiagnosed heart condition
At the age of 12, dancer Alex Brookes began experiencing irregular heart palpations. After initially being told it was nothing to worry about, her symptoms persisted and her mum decided it was best to seek medical advice and chose The Portland Hospital.
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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.