Calon Hearts is encouraging people across Wales to know their pulse and attend a heart screening event during World Heart Rhythm Week, highlighting the potentially life-saving role of early detection.
Every year, screening events identify people living with previously undiagnosed heart rhythm conditions, many of which may not cause obvious symptoms.
A simple pulse check and electrocardiogram (ECG) can help identify abnormalities that may require further investigation or treatment.
What Cardiac Conditions Can Screening Detect?
Among the most common heart rhythm conditions identified at Calon Hearts screening events are:
Sinus bradycardia – a slower than normal heart rate. This can be completely normal in some people, particularly athletes, but in others may cause dizziness, fatigue or fainting.
Sinus tachycardia – a faster than normal heart rate. This may be linked to stress, illness, dehydration or other underlying conditions.
Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome – an extra electrical pathway in the heart that can cause episodes of a very rapid heartbeat.
Atrial fibrillation (AF) – the most common heart rhythm disorder. The heart beats irregularly and often quickly, increasing the risk of stroke if left untreated.
First-degree heart block – a delay in the electrical signals travelling through the heart. It is often harmless but may require monitoring.
Frequent ventricular ectopics (extra beats) – additional heartbeats that originate in the lower chambers of the heart. Many people experience them occasionally, but frequent ectopics may need further assessment.
Screening can also identify rarer conditions, including:
Long QT syndrome – a condition affecting the heart’s electrical system that can increase the risk of dangerous abnormal heart rhythms.
Brugada pattern – a distinctive ECG finding associated with an increased risk of serious heart rhythm disturbances in some individuals.
Many people with heart rhythm disorders feel completely well and have no idea they have an underlying condition.
Sharon Owen, Founder and Chief Executive of Calon Hearts, said:
“World Heart Rhythm Week is a timely reminder that some potentially serious heart conditions can go completely unnoticed until they are picked up through screening.
“Many of the people who attend our screening events feel perfectly well and have no reason to think there is anything wrong. Yet every year we identify young people and adults with previously undiagnosed heart rhythm conditions that require further investigation, monitoring or treatment.
“Conditions such as atrial fibrillation, Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome and other rhythm disorders are not always obvious, but they can have significant consequences if left undetected.
“That is why we are encouraging everyone to take a few moments to know their pulse, learn the signs of heart rhythm disorders and take advantage of screening opportunities where they are available.
“A simple ECG can provide reassurance, but it can also identify a condition that could ultimately save a life. That’s why our message this World Heart Rhythm Week is simple: know your pulse, get screened and encourage your family and friends to do the same.”
The message from Calon Hearts during World Heart Rhythm Week is simple: know your pulse, get screened if you have the opportunity, and don’t ignore symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness or unexplained breathlessness.
To find out more about heart screening events across Wales or to book a screening appointment, visit Calon Hearts.
Know your pulse. Get screened. It could save your life.