"Cardiology"

I was diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation back in November. Was very unwell and symptomatic with it. Had a successful cardioversion carried out in January. Kept on my medication with a review to having it adjusted down the line by my consultant. A few weeks after the cardioversion I was still symptomatic and having a lot of fluid build up and feeling unwell. Was told by my GP I still had some crackling in my lungs. This issue with the fluid build up is still ongoing.

I had an ECG done mid February. Was told the results would be sent to my Cardiologist. And would have to wait to be seen for it to be discussed. Since then I still have ongoing issues with the fluid build up and how it affects my breathing. I've been to my GP on a number of occasions about this.

ECG was carried out in March, spikes on this were a possible indication of either having had or having a heart attack. Sent to A&E. Bloods checked and was told it was fine. But focused on my ongojng Ulcerative colitis flare up. (Not why I was there) during these times

I have been ringing Cardiologist Dr Sharma's secretary to follow up on an apt and ask when I was being seen. Was told over a month ago they would look into this and ring me back. And never did. I left several msgs over the last month or so also. And no one made contact.

I was back with my GP again 3 weeks ago, with the same ongoing issue with the heart and fluid. They made a referral to cardiology again. Followed up today, mid May 2025, to be told I am down for a virtual apt but when that is they don't know. So how can they check me over and carry out any assessment over the phone.

The last few days the fluid has become really bad again. So much so I feel short of breath at times. The secretary couldn't even tell me how long it might be before I get an apt. This is a disgrace. My experience of going to A&E isn't the best. Having been sent home with a collapsed lung and not informed I had a collapsed lung, and another time with just omeprazole, only to be admitted the following week.

Now we have this new Encompass system in place, it seems that's the new excuse for not being able to tell you anything when you are following up. I championed the cardiology ward during my time there. But getting past the system to be see by my own cardiologist is extremely frustrating. Given I had the cardioversion 5 months ago I'd have expected to be feeling a lot healthier than I have been.

My own GP is reluctant to adjust any medication as they aren't a cardiologist. And I would have to agree with them on this occasion. I know from past experience it would be a waste of time attending the ED. Really not impressed by the after care being received. After being told to follow up with them if I had any issues.