BORDERLINE

[Lifeback]

Hi all i posted last week i think to ask about borderline atrial fib.My daughter took the print out to the docters for me i hadnt heard anything so i went into docters yesterday and asked receptionist if i was due a letter or appointment she said no docter checked it, it is borderline is this ok to leave or should i go back and see docter x

[BobD Volunteer]

I don't understand borderline. Either you have AF or you don't. If they mean you are paroxysmal and have events rather than AF all the time there is still much to do. Please look at CareAF website and our own AF Association site and read up on the condition and then go bang some desks. You could be at risk of stroke (AF makes you five times more at risk ) so could need anticoagulant to protect you. Don't be put off. Take matters in hand and do something.

Bob

[Beancounter Volunteer]

I'm with Bob lifeback, borderline doesn#t mean anything, either you have AF or you haven't.

The AF can come and go (Paroxsymal) but it's still AF and needs treating and anti coagulation.

Go back, and get a firm diagnosis, which has to be from an ECG

Be well

Ian

[Lifeback in reply to Beancounter]

Thankyou ian and bob for replying im going to get appointment tomorrow at docters and sort this out my dad died of a heart attack and my mum has angina so i suppose im more susceptable to problems and i have hashimotos which apparaently can cause problems with the heart will let you know what happens

[chrisharmer Volunteer]

Your parents problems are likely to have been more about the "plumbing" of the heart than its "electrics", although everyone is unique. So you're not likely to have inherited any pre-disposition to AF.

Assuming you take at least some exercise and are not overweight, both of which affect AF, whilst I'm not medically qualified I'd say the Hashimotos thyroiditis could have an effect. In general, if you go in the hyperthyroid direction you will be more susceptible to arrhythmias so good TSH control and regular monitoring should minimise any problems this might cause.

Bob and Ian are right - either you have AF or you don't - if you do, then it must be taken in hand - be persistent and if your instinct suggests they are not taking this seriously then ask (demand!) to be referred to an electrophysiologist (EP). There is a list of hospitals and EP departments on the AFA website and you should be able to specify to your doctor where you want to go / who you want to see. You need to get a competant diagnosis and treatment as appropriate.