Crossed legs

[Gertsen]

Am I imagining it or can sitting crossed legged give you skipped beats?

[jeanjeannie50]

An interesting question Gertsen

I would guess that any way we sit, that compresses the stomach area, could cause heart rhythm problems. I've often been sat, probably slouched, many times when my AF has started. I don't ever recall it starting when I've been out walking. The same with eating a large meal, your stomach grows and presses on internal body organs. In bed sleeping with knees drawn up in a foetal position could be another trigger.

Jean

[Vony in reply to jeanjeannie50]

Thank you for this Jean. Doctors have told me this is "in my imagination" before. When I know the things you mention are major triggers for me!!!

[Finvola]

It makes sense to me too. Crossing the legs often is accompanied by slouching and getting comfortable. My ectopics are more inclined to start when I use my PC than my iPad - I use a recliner with iPad, so less chest compression perhaps.

[jonjub]

I remember some while ago lying on my back on an osteopaths bed and being scolded for having my legs crossed, one over the other. She told me this was, in any scenario, a complete no-no - a circulation issue. I think i also recall another incident where i received a similar reprimand from a medical professional. Unfortunately i cannot remember the reason why - i make the assumption though that by crossing the legs, pressure would be exerted on the blood and nerve vessels that are located in and around the groin area.

[Mike-tyson in reply to jonjub]

Have been told off by nurses when having ecg and Echocardiogram about lying on the bed with my legs crossed at the ankle. Should have asked what the problem was but did not. Probably affects your circulation I would think ?

[Alan_G]

I have a sofa in my living room that I avoid late at night. It's one of those that you sink into and is difficult to then get off. My only episodes of AF that were not caused by known triggers started when I was on that sofa.

[Vony in reply to Alan_G]

Oh my gosh.. I have one of these sofas too!!!! I have to sit on 4 pillows!!!

[Bauldy]

When I had my heart attack and was in hospital, the cardiac nurse continually warned me not to cross my legs bad for circulation.