Increased episodes of P.A.F.

[Solara]

Hi, I was diagnosed with PAF about 18months ago.At first the episodes didn't worry me unduly, but over the last 3 months they have been getting more frequent and lasting longer, sometimes for 24 hours or more. I am on Bisoprolol 1.25 mgs and Warfarin. Just lately I have been feeling more lightheaded than usual, and my GP tried 2.50mg of Bisoprolol but on two occasions, I nearly passed out. I am now back on 1.25mg. My blood pressure is slightly down so I have an appointment with the cardiologist in September. What I need to know is are these episodes damaging the heart at all, and is this the general trend for this complaint. My GP seems to think that he has to stop these turns from happening at all, but I didn't think this was possible. I am installing Garfort eye drops nightly for Glaucoma and I have been advised to stop it temporarily as they contain a certain amount of beta blockers which may be pushing me over the limit. Any help would be greatly appreciated. I am nearing 81 years old, so don't want any intrusive treatment.

Thank you.

[Hidden]

You are right, Many eye drop treatments for glaucoma can lower your blood pressure. I am pleased to see that you are being referred to a cardiologist. Please ensure that it is one who specialises in heart rhythm disorders - often known as electrophysiologists. They will know the best course of treatment for you.

You can read lots of information about AF and treatment options on afa.org.uk but if you have any specific questions, please do get in touch, [e-mail] or 01789 867502

Best wishes, Rachel - Patient Services Associate - AF Association.

[Solara in reply to Hidden]

Thank you Rachel. I feel very relieved that my guess is correct about eye drops. I shall stop using them to see what happens. The eye clinic must have realised this otherwise they would not have put it in black and white.

[rosyG]

It's good that you will see a cardiologist as they will check other heart related information. I think you are right about the lower blood pressure making you feel faint- in combination with the AF I expect.

AF can cause damage over long periods of time which is why you GP is trying to reduce the episodes, but the slight heart enlargement that often occurs (left atrium) also reduces when AF is dealt with effectively.

At one conference I heard a cardiologist say one would have to be in fast AF with high heart rate for quite a long time for any real damage to be done so I wouldn't really worry about it at this stage

There are various drugs available so if one doesn't suit, do ask on here and others will tell you what they changed to and whether it was better for them. Good that your GP is being proactive!1

Take care

[Solara in reply to rosyG]

Thank you RosyG

It great to get other people's opinion and your remarks are very encouraging.

[Rellim296 in reply to rosyG]

Your GP may not be able to prescribe drugs like flecainide (which works well for many of us) so perhaps discuss different medication.