Recent Paroxysmal atrial Fibrillation patient would appreciate some advice.

[kenthynne]

Hi , I'm a recently diagnosed PAF patient and like most people very concerned about being told I have a heart condition. On Bisoprolol 2.5 mg and also aspirin 75 mg at the moment but still having random episodes of PAF. Off to see my cardiologist on the 20th of May and due to having hypertension for over thirty years ( taking candasarten for that ) was wondering whether I will be going onto Warfarin. The episodes of PAF really frighten the life out of me and hoping for some information that will lessen my anxiety.

[SRMGrandma Volunteer]

Hi and welcome to the club! Not the club you had hoped to join, I know. But you are here and we've all been where you are. My AF is also due to longstanding hypertension, though I took my meds every day for all those years, it still has taken a toll. My guess is that if you are still having random episodes of AF you will like be put on an anticoagulant to lower your risk of stroke. That may be warfarin or it may be one of the newer anticoagulants. That decision will be up to you, your doc, and your insurance! Yes, the episodes are really, really frightening but once you have your action plan and know you are on the best meds for you then hopefully the episodes will at least be more manageable and less scary. Meanwhile, do every healthy thing you can for your heart so that A.F. doesn't run your life! Good luck!

[kenthynne in reply to SRMGrandma]

Many thanks for your input , it's gratifying to know there are so many of us in the same boat so to speak. Will follow your advice and update everyone after my consultation.

[Beancounter Volunteer]

Hi Kenthynne

Yes it is very scary, both the episodes (which I do not get being permament) and the diagnosis, as they never really give you enough information.

But you are in exactly the right place.

Your are likely to go on warfarin, it's not big deal honestly.... takes a little while to settle the INR levels, but apart from that not a problem for almost anyone here.

Next thing you should think about is reading and gaining as much knowledge as you can about A Fib, and particularly your A Fib, as everyone is different.

Read the AFA website almost cover to cover, ask loads of questions here, someone will have had exactly the same experience, and we're generally a helpful lot and will tell you about what to expect.

Start making a list of questions you want to ask the Cardio, there will be a lot I promise you, I had two full pages of A4 for my first appointment, and you need to make sure all your questions are answered.

Above all, and I know this is really hard, try and relax, we all have A Fib, and most of us have just got on with our lives around the various treatments, you will feel the same in a while I promise you.

You are now in the company of people who have been there, done it, felt it, and understand it, ask away we only bite on Halloween

Welcome to the board

Ian

[kenthynne in reply to Beancounter]

Will most certainly ensure my cardiologist answers all my questions and will be a regular visitor to this site to keep up to date with any info which will help me. Many thanks for your reply and best regards.

[skary]

Hi there

You've definitely come to the best place to get support & information; it's scary thing to have AF but armed with info and have ALL your questions answered it gives you back control. Never be afraid to ask as the more knowledge you get the more you can sort it all out.

Write everything down; I have to as senior moments come and I lose track of what I've what I need to know !!!!

I 'm in permanent AF and I'm still learning just how to deal with it but am happy to say feel so much better since joining this forum an site.

all the best

Nik

[kenthynne in reply to skary]

Hi , it's nice to know that so many people take the time to reply to newly diagnosed patients. Like you I will certainly write down all the many questions which need to be asked as AF seems to affect many people in so many different ways. Fantastic site and fantastic people. Many thanks for your reply and good wishes.

[skary]

It's always good to have the opportunity of talking to others that know exactly what you mean & how you feel. A good cardiologist and EP can help so much ; don't be afraid of asking questions...knowledge is good !

Meditation/yoga/reiki are all really good to help you relax and de-stress & some folk have acupuncture too.... anything that keeps you calmer can only be good for your heart.

chat anytime !

Nik