Upper back pain after transoesophageal echocardiogram and AF ablation

Hi folks, it's me again. I had my ablation last week, 4 September, and my heart has felt nice and steady since then. I know it's very early days. I also had a transoesophageal echocardiogram whilst under general anaesthetic. Initially I had a tender throat which has now resolved.

The problem I have now is pain in my upper back which feels almost like I've swallowed some dry food which I haven't chewed properly. It's definitely inside me, not my spine, although it's in that region. It's worse first thing in the morning and then while drinking a hot drink and swallowing. I can eat OK although swallowing things like bread is uncomfortable. I have rung the hospital and seen my gp and their advice was the same although they can't tell me if this is normal or not. I was beginning to think the doc had left the camera inside me!

I am now on a double dose of Omeprazole, regular Gaviscon and painkillers as of yesterday. My gp also mentioned stress as my husband had a stroke last week ( he is OK ) so it could be a combination of this and maybe bruising to my oesophagus ( I am now 10 days post procedure ).

I hope someone can tell me they've had the same symptoms as me after a TOE so that I know it is normal. It's OK getting advice from health professionals but there is nothing as reassuring as hearing from my friends on this forum. Thanks, Debbie. x

[BobD Volunteer]

It sounds like oesophageal inflammation which we mention as common in our fact sheet on recovery. The oesophagus passes very close to the heart and can be affected by the ablation work by transfer and I am surprised that your doctor doesn't know this.

I would be careful about long term use of ppi's like Omeprazole as these have been known to exacerbate the problem over time and should be considered short term only in my view. I'd stick to the Gaviscon after a week or two if it were me.

[Hidden in reply to BobD]

This is so helpful and reassuring Bob. I did look at the factsheet before I had my ablation but I really need to sit down and read it again. Many thanks, I feel much better now.

[Hidden]

Many thanks Jo - I'll carry on with the Omeprazole for a while. Thanks also for your very kind wishes. Debbie. xx

[Hidden]

Yes l had same after Ablation for months subsided now but can still flare if not careful what l eat.This was due to Oesphoigeal damage during Ablation..

Described it just like yourself as if l had eaten something and it was stuck the pain was excruciating in chest and back for months.. l still have to be very careful and make sure l chew my food thoroughly before swallowing..

I think think what you and l have is a rare occurrence and dosnt happen often but try not to worry just don't gulp your food down and drink water ...

Carol.

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Carol, your reply is so reassuring, I can't tell you how pleased I am to read it! I'm so uncomfortable and it's easy to let it get you down. I'll just have to persevere but I will be careful and watch what I eat. Sorry you had to suffer this too. Many thanks, really. Debbie. x