Ventricular fibrillation (VF)
V-fib
This condition can be life-threatening and requires immediate attention to restore your heart to its normal rhythm
About VF
Need to know
-
What are the symptoms of ventricular fibrillation? icon plus
The symptom of VF is loss of consciousness. -
Diagnosing VF icon plus
Your consultant will first discuss with you your overall health and medical history. After this they may perform some tests, including:
- asking you for a description of symptoms
- performing a physical examination of your body
- checking vital signs, such as your blood pressure and resting pulse rate
- electrocardiogram to check your heart's rhythm and electrical activity
-
Potential treatment options icon plus
The first response during an episode is cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the form of CPR. This will keep your blood flowing and return your heart to normal rhythm with a DC shock by a defibrillator.
After resuscitation, a full medical history, physical examination and full investigations of your heart will be made. This will include some or all of an ECG, echocardiogram, Holter monitor, cardiac MRI scan, coronary angiography and an EPS.
Your consultant may give you medication immediately following an episode to help you control and prevent a recurrence. They may prescribe additional medications to control arrhythmia and reduce your risk. Some drugs for other conditions increase the risk of VF so they may be stopped.
If, despite treatment, you are considered to be at increased risk of further episodes, you will receive an implantable cardioverter defibrillator.
Our cardiologists
Our facilities
From complex cardiothoracic surgery to tests and diagnostic procedures, we provide exceptional cardiac care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
-
London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
-
The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
-
The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
-
London Arrhythmia Centre
2nd Floor, St Olaf’s House
27 Tooley Street
London SE1 2PR
-
The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
Book an appointment
Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
Call us today
020 7079 4344