Can ablation make symptoms worst?

[glenpointe]

I have persistent afib for 5 years now. Besides taking Eliquis, I tolerate my symptoms well. I'm scheduled to have an ablation in few days. My question is, anyone out there had the ablation and the symptoms become worst after? I want to get it done because my atria are enlarged and my ejection rate at 40%. Thanks

[Hidden]

Hi Glenpointe,

Of course, the primary reason for having an ablation is to prevent AF and all the associated issues which come with the territory so that quality of life becomes significantly better. A couple of things to bear in mind. Although the risk is low, the heart does take a bit of a bashing so it does take time for it to fully recover. During that period (upto around 6 months), it is not uncommon to experience some AF episodes, palpitations and ectopics which can be unpleasant but these generally fade and we are only really aware because we have become more sensitive to any changes in the way our heart functions. The other is that you need to give your heart time to fully recover by doing nothing for the first week and not much more for the second. Then gradually return your activity levels back to normal but avoiding any extreme exertion for as long as possible.

When you read some posts from recent ablatees, they sometimes talk about breathlessness and quicker heart rates but you rarely hear from anyone saying that these symptoms have continued for very long so hopefully, you will be pleased with the outcome. Please let us know how you get on.....best of luck

[glenpointe in reply to Hidden]

Thanks FlapJack. You always have good answers and make everyone feels good.

[opal11uk]

Yes, I am afraid to say that it did make my condition worse, and although it had been deemed a success immediately after it wasn't the case, I deteriorated quite quickly and in the end was fitted with a Pacemaker which has made my life worth living again. Ablation works for many many people with improving success but for me it didn't. My ablation was 4 years ago.

[CDreamer]

Hi and yes, first ablation did make my symptoms much worse - but the second a few weeks later stopped all AF for 3 years.

Unfortunately one never knows what the result will be for any individual until after the event but everything carries risk and it is about assessing the possible risk against the possible benefits. It is a very individual choice.