Post-cardoversion

[G1703]

Just wondering whether I will need to take time off work for rest after my forthcoming cardioversion. I’m a Hospital Chaplain so usually walking quite a lot through the day. I’m new to all this and don’t really know what to expect. Any advice appreciated.

[dragonflyjan]

Hi

I have had 3 cardioversions in the past and although I was told at the hospital you can return to work after a couple of days, I found I neede a week to 10 days to get over each one.

[Hidden]

The cardioversion itself takes minutes, but the whole procedure will probably take half a day. It may take a day or so for the effects of the GA to wear off and it’s possible you may have some soreness on the chest where the pads are used. Why don’t you pop into the cardiology department at your hospital, I’m sure they would be more than happy to provide you with the information you need...😉

If the procedure is being carried out somewhere else, there are information sheets on the AF Association webpage but recovery normally is quite quick but no driving probably for 24 hours.....good luck

[grandmadogs]

I have had two cardioversions and two completely different experiences. After the first I was very sore for a week but after the second I was not sore at all so in my opinion I would say wait and see how you feel. You will certainly need a bit of time to get over the GA.

[BobD Volunteer]

I think to suggest a week off work is unrealistic. OK you must not drive for 24 hours minimum due to sedation but there is no wound to heal so a day or two max would be my suggestion. I once had a DCCV in London in the morning and took myself across town and by train back to my west country home in the afternoon. The hospital asked me if I was being collected and I told them my wife was in the car park. Didn't tell them it was Tiverton Station car park. Not the most sensible thing I ever did in my life but it proves there is not usually much to recover from. My others have been similarly problem free. Caveat - We are all different and problems can occur so go with how you feel.

[Hidden]

This might help....

bhf.org.uk/informationsuppo...

[Hidden]

I've had 19 cardioversions and certainly wasn't out of action for a week. Probably felt a bit fragile the day after but carried on as usual. Wait and see how you feel. I would have thought resting the day after would suffice

Best wishes

Sandra

[TamlaMotown in reply to Hidden]

Crikey 19??

[Hidden in reply to TamlaMotown]

Yes ,19 and I live to tell the tale 😃

[TamlaMotown in reply to Hidden]

Amazing. Are you the record holder 🤔

[Hidden in reply to TamlaMotown]

No...not yet! I think pottypete has had 20. Mind you I narrowly missed 20 2 weeks ago ! Not a record I covet though ....

[johnMiosh]

I have only had one cardioversion, but it jolted me into NSR after 8 months of persistent AF. I had the procedure on a Thursday, and took the whole day off due to the anaesthetic.

I arranged to work from home on the Friday, and was suffering no after effects. If anything, the only problem I had was that I felt so happy and energetic being back in NSR that I couldn't concentrate on work.

[Hidden in reply to johnMiosh]

You re right there John. It's so good to be back in sinus rhythm that one almost feels euphoric !

[Kaz747]

I thought I’d have a couple of days off but felt awful so headed back to the GP and was diagnosed with Shingles and ended up being off work for a month. The procedure itself was pretty straightforward.