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Adult Services - Heart Function Service

Who is this service for?

This service is for people with a confirmed diagnosis of Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction (LVSD).

What we do

Our team of specialist nurses provide assessment, ongoing support and monitoring for people with Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction (LVSD) which means the heart is not functioning at full capacity. This includes a self-management plan to promote recovery and independence. We also offer specialist support and advice to other healthcare professionals.

What is Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction?

The common term used to describe Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction (LVSD) is ‘heart failure’. This is a set of symptoms which occur when your heart doesn’t pump as much blood and oxygen around your body as it should. The heart is a powerful muscle which usually pumps the blood around the body via a regular pumping action but there are many potential reasons why the heart function may be impaired, these will be discussed with you by your doctor or nurse.

How does my doctor know if I need heart function support?

Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and carry out a physical examination. The most common symptoms of LVSD are:

  • Shortness of breath when you are resting or doing normal activities
  • Swelling of the feet, ankles or abdomen
  • Tiredness and fatigue

These symptoms can also be caused by other medical conditions, so in most cases further tests will be needed to confirm a diagnosis of heart failure. The most common tests are:

  • An electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess your heart rhythm
  • A BNP test – a blood test which measures the levels of certain hormones related to heart failure
  • A chest x-ray, which shows a picture of your heart and lungs
  • An echocardiogram, which allows doctors to see how the valves, muscle and pumping action of your heart are working
  • General blood tests – to check, for example, how well your kidneys are working
  • Lung function tests to see how well your lungs are working.

How do I access this service?

You need to be referred by a healthcare professional to access this service.

Cancelled / missed appointments

If you cannot make your appointment, we require a minimum of 24 hours’ notice to reschedule your appointment. Please contact us on 01275 885178. You may be discharged if you miss any appointments without letting us know, or if you cancel appointments more than once. A discharge letter will be sent to your GP who can re-refer you if they feel this is appropriate.

Who to contact

Telephone
01275 885178
Website
https://www.sirona-cic.org.uk/

Other details

Costs

Details
NHS service

Availability

Referral required
Yes
Referral Details

Patients are referred to the service for assessment by other health care professionals.

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