Sometimes, dizzy spells are nothing to worry about. In the first patient we present here, we were able to demonstrate a normal heart rhythm during one of the these dizzy spells through the use of home monitoring and were able to re-assure them that the symptoms were simply those of dehydration.
Occasionally, though, dizzy spells represent something more. Another patient was only having occasional dizzy spells and prolonged periods of heart monitoring had all been normal.
We therefore implanted a small heart recording device (a ‘Reveal’ device) under the skin under local anaesthetic.
Reveal device
Six weeks later, we were able to demonstrate that this patient had a faulty electrical system of the heart which was causing dizzy spells and putting them at risk of blackouts.
We were able to immediately implant a permanent pacemaker, under local anaesthetic, with only an overnight stay in hospital.
The Reveal device is a small, unobtrusive piece of technology that can monitor the heart rhythm for years. Sometimes it is the best way of ensuring that patients at risk of heart rhythm abnormalities are closely monitored for years to come. The procedure takes 10 minutes and the implantation process involves minimal discomfort.
Reveal monitor showing 6 second pause