Worried about your heart?
Most heart-related symptoms turn out not to be serious and shouldn't cause you anxiety. In a few cases they are, and an early diagnosis can be life-saving. Either way, you deserve a clear answer.
Get my symptoms checked
Symptoms worth getting checked
If you have any of the following, have them looked at as soon as you can:
- Chest pain or tightness
- Breathlessness
- Palpitations or an irregular heartbeat
- High blood pressure
- Dizzy spells or blackouts
- Feeling unusually exhausted
- Swollen legs, feet and ankles
If you have severe or crushing chest pain, pain spreading to your arm, jaw or back, or sudden severe breathlessness, call 999 immediately — do not wait for an appointment.
Heart attacks can sometimes go unrecognised, and symptoms that are dismissed or put off can delay treatment. If something doesn't feel right, don't sit on it.
Worried about your cholesterol? See my cholesterol page.
What happens when you see me
I investigate your symptoms and analyse your risk factors
I will take time over your symptoms, lifestyle, family medical history and any existing conditions, then examine you. I will explain whether further investigation is needed and what should happen next.
If needed, I'll arrange tests and discuss treatment
Additional tests are often needed for a quick, correct diagnosis. I can explain what is involved and, in many cases, arrange them for you.
You choose what comes next
Continue privately, or return to NHS care — I'll explain both options and, where I can, make the referral for you.
Common questions
Do I need a GP referral to see Dr Swan?
No. You are welcome to book without a referral. Dr Swan also accepts GP referrals. If you have private medical insurance, check with your insurer whether they require a referral for their own purposes.
How do I arrange an appointment?
Complete the short form on the contact page, or phone the practice. The practice team will reply during office hours to agree a day and time that suits you and confirm the details by email.
Where are appointments held?
Appointments take place at Newbury Place Health Centre, 55 Rigby Street, Salford, M7 4NX (Manchester Cardiology Services Ltd).
Do you still offer telephone or video consultations?
No. Dr Swan now sees patients in person only, which allows a proper examination and, where appropriate, tests such as an echocardiogram or ECG on the same visit.
What happens at my first appointment?
Dr Swan will take a detailed history, talk through your symptoms, lifestyle, family history and any existing conditions, and examine you. Where tests are helpful he will explain what they involve, and arrange them for you. You will leave with a clear explanation of what is going on and what to do next.
Will I have to pay for future tests and treatment privately?
No. A private consultation does not commit you to private treatment. If you would rather continue on the NHS, Dr Swan will advise how to do that and, where he can, make the referral for you. You are free to return privately whenever you wish.
Get my symptoms checked
Send a few details and my practice team will get back to you to arrange a convenient appointment. No GP referral needed.