I have been in slow AF for the last 4 days. My last bike ride failed to cardiovert me. It seems that I may be stuck here for a while
Whilst I would say that I am largely asymptomatic in AF (compared with some people, particularly those with fast AF), the last few days I have had periods of feeling very “yucky”. I black out when I stand up. I feel dizzy and tingly when I walk around. Sometimes a little nauseous too.
Anyone know what causes these symptoms? (could it be a gradual drop in oxygen or build up of CO2?). And are there any fixes?
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Mejulie69
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I haven't. Maybe I should. I've often had this problem when getting out of bed first thing. I think the blood rushes to my body and I black out. I don't lose consciousness or fall over. But I do sometimes have to grab onto something whilst it passes!
The thing to do is sit on the side of the bed for a few minutes before standing up. Yes, I know it's a pain to have to do but you're not alone.
Check your blood pressure and you could buy a little oximeter to show your blood oxygen (SpO2) and pulse rate. Passing out needs to be followed up with a GP and, as I replied to someone else, you may be referred for a tilt table test.
Out of interest how slow is your "slow" AF? I think that is more like mine where my pulse can't really be measured accurately as it is a mixture of missing a beat, a few quick ones then a couple of slow ones. The sort of cha cha cha of heart rates! Averages to about 80 bpm. Feels weak on my wrist though. Normal resting is 48bpm. Now nobody seems bothered and it does barely affect me although I feel very slightly weaker and a bit disinterested in doing anything energetic till it goes 36 hours later. I get it every 10 days roughly and can't find anything to "cure" it so far. Am on lowest level of Sotalol and Apixaban.
My resting HR is similar in AF and NSR - 50 when awake, down to 38 asleep. When moving, my AF HR rockets up to 140 just walking about. Occasionally can go over 200 when exercising but never into dangerous levels. I get very exhausted when exercising in AF. It still feels bizarre to me!
Hi Baraba. I only exercise in AF in order to cardiovert. It normally works. I have read a lot of people have success with this method, so I think your concerns may be a little over cautious. But yes, I probably should rest more.
My pulse was 'slippery' and I think (as can't be sure) CoQ10 & Mg compound (Nutri MegaMuscleze) supplements helped it considerably, but do ask an experienced Alternative Practitioner first. The results is a much firmer pulse and a lot of that dizziness going.
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