Persistent AF II ...

[mrsg46]

Just a quick update as everyone was so kind when I posted previously and some people wanted to know how I got on.

This afternoon my GP phoned me and advised me to go to A&E since the extra dose of Diltiazem wasn't helping. It's been nine days now since this all started. A&E did an ECG and then sent me up to AEC (Ambulatory Emergency Care), where I had another ECG, bloods and a chest x-ray done. Much to my surprise (based on almost every previous visit) I was then discharged home and told to just up my dose of Diltiazem, see my GP in a couple of days and see how I go.

So am still tachycardic with the odd bouts of AF, still feeling rubbish and a bit shocked, to be honest, but trying to be positive that if the hospital thinks I'll be alright going on like this then I shouldn't be worried. I think lack of sleep isn't helping as I feel a bit gaga now but have to go with what I've been advised and hope for the best.

I do love to read people's posts when they've had successful ablations as it just shows that I'm in the minority having had three that have been unsuccessful and I'm so cheered by good news.

This too shall pass ...

[adx46]

Kate, pleased to hear that the hospital thinks that increased dose of diltiazem may sort things. Do stay positive and I hope that things settle down for you soon. I assume that there's always the option of an ablation in Bristol? All the best, Nigel

[rosyG]

It doesn't seem very helpful to be honest- you may have had a registrar who thinks it's OK because you have been like this for some days. Don't hesitate to go back ( ring for the ambulance- don't wait for GP to send you) if you start to feel things are deteriorating - if your pulse rate becomes too high or you have other symptoms that are severe, you are unlikely to see same doctor. Also push for an appointment with you EP/Cardiologist so you can get your treatment reviewed. Think you need to press for some more help Hoping it all settles down for you

[Buffafly]

How much Diltiazem is that? Sorry you are having such a miserable time.

[CDreamer]

Unfortunately it does sound a little like the 'hospital' or the doctors who saw you at least, have no further suggestions as to how to help you.

As they may well not have been specialists therefore I agree that you need to see your EP and push your GP for advice from your EP as soon as possible if you are to progress this.

What would you like to happen now? If you have a clear idea of what you want to happen it may help them to help you get somewhere.

I think if I were you, I would want to know options for alternative treatment plan.

Hope you feel better soon, a good night's sleep often helps.

Best wishes

[Finvola]

Aw, Kate - that's what I call a messy outcome - relief that the hospital don't seem worried but no relief of your symptoms or a real plan of action.

It sounds like you need to get an EP controlling this and driving things forward. Are you able to contact his/her secretary or go through your GP for an urgent review of your case by the EP who can assess the complete picture - including your horrible symptoms?

Hang on to those last four words in your post - I have made them my mantra.

I hope you've had some decent sleep - it does work wonders. Best wishes xx