
WELCOME
I'm Dr Zarrin Shaikh
BMBS, BMedSci (Hons), MRCP, PhD
As a consultant cardiologist, I specialize in heart health, disease prevention, and advanced cardiac imaging. My approach is rooted in providing personalized, comprehensive care while making sure you feel heard and understood. Whether you're dealing with a specific heart issue or seeking preventive guidance, I’m here to offer expert advice and clear communication at every step.
ABOUT
A Journey in Cardiology and Medicine
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I qualified in medicine from the University of Nottingham in 2001, and since then, I’ve had the privilege of working in hospitals across Cardiff, London, and Liverpool. This extensive experience has given me a well-rounded foundation in both general medicine and cardiology.
In 2007, I completed a PhD at Imperial College London, based at the Royal Brompton Hospital’s sleep laboratory. Funded by the British Heart Foundation, my research explored the connection between heart health and respiratory conditions, particularly how blood flow in the heart is affected during sleep, rest, and exercise. This sparked a lasting interest in sleep and its links to heart disease.
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Training and Expertise
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I completed my specialist cardiology training in 2017 in Liverpool, with a focus on cardiac imaging. I have advanced expertise in echocardiography (heart ultrasound) and cardiac MRI, both essential tools in diagnosing and managing heart disease.
As a consultant, I’ve held roles as the clinical lead for cardiac imaging and cardiology education at Wexham Park Hospital, and I played a key role in establishing the cardiac MRI service at Frimley Park Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. I also lecture nationally on subjects like cardiac MRI and sleep medicine.
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PUBLICATIONS
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Shaikh ZF. Sleep medicine and the cardiologist. Heart 2020 Feb 13
Shaikh ZF, Kelly JL, Shrikrishna D, de Villa M, Mullen MJ, Hopkinson N, Morrell MJ, Polkey MI. Patent foramen ovale is not associated with hypoxemia in severe COPD and does not impair exercise performance. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2014 Mar 1;189(5):540-7
Shaikh ZF, Jaye J, Ward N, Malhotra A, de Villa M, Polkey MI, Mullen MJ, Morrell MJ. Patent foramen ovale in severe obstructive sleep apnea: clinical features and effects of closure. Chest. 2013 Jan;143(1):56-63
Twigg GL, Papaioannou I, Jackson M, Ghiassi R, Shaikh Z, Jaye J, Graham KS, Simonds AK, Morrell MJ. Obstructive sleep apnea is associated with deficits in verbal but not visual memory. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2010 Jul 1;182(1):98-103
Shaikh ZF, Morrell MJ, Polkey MI, Mullen MJ. Patent foramen ovale in obstructive sleep apnoea [abstract]. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2010 May 2010;181:A3683
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Shaikh ZF, Halim I. Guide to a good RITA. BMJ Career Focus Sep 2006 333: 103-105
AREAS OF CARE
In my private practice, I diagnose and treat a wide range of cardiac conditions, including:
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• Chest pain
• Palpitations
• Breathlessness
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• High cholesterol and blood lipid disorders
• Heart failure
• Heart valve disease​
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I offer a full range of cardiac investigations, from basic tests like echocardiography to advanced imaging such as CT and MRI scans. Should you need more detailed assessments or invasive testing, I can arrange that as well.

YOUR HEART HEALTH, MY PRIORITY
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I understand that heart-related symptoms can be worrying, and I am committed to providing a compassionate, thorough approach to diagnosing and treating your condition. My goal is not only to identify the root cause of your symptoms but to offer you peace of mind throughout the process.
I look forward to partnering with you on your journey to better heart health.
