ALWAYS get a second opinion

[twentybelow0]

I had been seeing the same cardiologist for 8 yrs for symptomatic afib. My afib has gotten steadily more frequent until now I have been cardioverted 3 times in the last 4 weeks. My cardiologist set me up with his EP to discuss cryo-ablation and I was not impressed. After some research I found the guy who actually was the first to do it in my area. He is a cardiologist and an EP. If I had known all the stuff I learned from him I would have done this yrs ago. Before I was just on Metoprolol and aspirin. Now on Metoprolol, Flecainide and Eliquis. 12 days in and no afib. Ablation is next month. Always do some research and get a second opinion.

[meadfoot]

I agree totally. I did and haven't looked back.

[SimplySimonUK]

Cardioverted three times? My consultant wouldn’t even consider cardioversion unless the AF was permanent, as the heart is likely to revert to AF at any time. I had a 48 hour ECG which recorded eight AF episodes, the longest lasting 23 hours (whilst on 100mg Flecainide twice daily). Even then, he did a cryo ablation and cardioversion together, rather than just doing a cardioversion.

[angiesuggs]

Ive had good experience with Eliquis. I've been taking it now for one year.

[sdalen]

I agree! My GP puts blinders on as I want to switch to apixaban from rivarobaxan since I had a big rectal bleed. He also said that doctors can't tell an afib just my using a stethoscope. I blinked rapidly. The only two afibs I had, I knew they were there. I went to emerge when he said I was in afib an they were premature atrial complexes...makes you feel suspicious about his knowledge. he referred me to cardiologist for echocardiogram based on what he said were afibs but I think he was 'told" that they weren't....he back peddled and said doctors can't really tell using a stethoscope. Anyone heard of that?

[twentybelow0 in reply to sdalen]

Find another GP is my opinion. I’m symtomatic so I know when I’m in afib. I can also check my pulse and feel it. I’m weak and tired feeling. My cousin is asymptomatic. He never even notices his. Good luck

[wilsond in reply to sdalen]

Beggars belief!really worrying!l

[Diamondgirl5]

I am on most of hose drugs also + pacemaker and no afib, No bad reactions with Eliquis - EXCEPT FOR THE DRUG'S COST! Good luck!

[twentybelow0 in reply to Diamondgirl5]

Yes the Eliquis is not cheap but they have programs to reduce the price if you qualify. Talk to your Dr about it. Good luck

[Nugger in reply to Diamondgirl5]

I take it your in the u s & can't believe what they charge $420 for one months supply & over in the UK the cost to the NHS is $75 but I get it for free cos I'm over 60!

[Diamondgirl5]

I am on most of those drugs also + pacemaker and no afib, No bad reactions with Eliquis - EXCEPT FOR THE DRUG'S COST! Good luck!

[secondtry]

I changed cardiologists, then got referred to 'his' EP (they probably all have their favourite links), didn't like his rushed impersonal manner, so did more research and pleased I took all these steps.

[Horse57]

I had exactly the same experience. I was going to my cardiologist and he never recommended going to an EP. I had so many bouts of a fib to the point where I thought I was going to die. Finally I got tired of it and did some research and found The EP I have now. I have Flecainide and Eliquis and my regular blood pressure medicine which is quite low but still I have it. If I hadn’t did the research I would still be having all the problems! You are so correct.