I am 77 female, 50 lbs. overweight, Cardioversion did not work, scheduled for Ablation Dec. 28. On Eliquis 2x5mg. per day, Levothyroxime (1per day) 75 MCG, Hydrochlorothiazide (1 per day) 25 MG. Diltiazem, 1 per day, 180 mg. Losartan, 1 per day, 50 mg. I don't notice AFIB symptoms, so losing weight before Ablation would be a good thing. I do Transcendental Meditation twice a day (for stress/anxiety). Diagnosed with Persistent AFIB Dec. 2017. AFRAID of after-effects of Ablation I've read about, worse than I feel now, which is mainly fatigue (who wouldn't carrying extra weight). HOW TO LOSE WEIGHT on all these meds. which don't help in losing weight. Any suggestions? I could postpone for a few months. My meds don't bother me with side effects.
Ablation or Not?: I am 77 female, 5... - Atrial Fibrillati...
Ablation or Not?
I was offered ablation for my pvc’s but I passed because in my research and my cardiologist told me many times it doesn’t work and needs repeated. I take pills for it. Still have them at times though. You need to discuss this with your cardiologist and don’t let me make your decision as I’m no dr.just sharing.
I'm leaning towards postponing Ablation, not only because of losing weight, but from not really seeing a lot of positive things about it...including arrithemias (sp) popping up later, and other different problems, and having to take more toxic meds.
Things to consider
50 - 60% success rate at 18 months according to one study mentioned in the article below
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articl...
You say you have no symptoms from your persistent AF (which surprises me) in which case achieving sinus rhythm may not improve your quality of life.
Getting back to mid range BMI will likely be more effective at this stage. I have found a gentle low carb diet helpful and easy to cope with. The higher fat content reduces the hunger pangs.
What persuaded you to see an EP in the first place?
I would only have an EP do an ablation, as my cardiologist isn't as specialized as an EP. At my age, (77), I don't know if I could handle a 2nd or 3rd, if needed. If I had more severe episodes of AFIB, then I'd be more willing. My EP wants me to have a Sleep Study done, which I am willing to do. Losing weight would be beneficial if I were to agree to Ablation, and any symptoms with my heart, I really don't notice, like flutters, palpitations, pain, etc., so waiting for awhile seems more to my liking..and a lot of people have trouble after Ablation. I can see a younger person wanting to regain their old lifestyle, hiking, biking, etc. I'm happy to play cards with my friends, go to movie, visit family, etc., so a better lifestyle, other than losing weight, which would be GREAT, I'd be able to get around better. Thanks for all the advice.
Good advice from Oyster - if you are not that symptomatic from persistent AF I would be cautious. Losing the 50lbs is far, far more likely to improve your overall health and wellbeing and will probably lower your AF burden so get some help and support to do just that. It’s not easy but low carbs and higher fat I find worked for me without feeling hungry but you need to know what you are doing so I would suggest you get professional nutrititional advice , sooner rather than later,
Best wishes CD,
nothing to add to what others have said and I am an ablation groupie!
Look at your Quality of Life and if you are happy with it then go for losing weight. You are on a cocktail of drugs so an ablation could mean yo may be able to stop taking some of them. Decision making about treatment for AF is up to you as we are all different. Good luck with whatever you decide.
My EP told me weight loss reduces Afib risk by 25%. So I would say start there. A low (or if you can, no) carb diet is the best way to start, with walking included.
I guess we are all different with this condition. I have been in persistent since Feb 2017.I spent a lot of time deciding whether I would go for an ablation. I discussed it with my cardio, an EP at local hospital and my wife, and decided the risks/results outweighed the benefit's, for me anyway.
I hate hospitals at the best of times, and having to go through yet another operation just didn't fit well with me.
No doubt if I had ongoing and distressing symptoms I may have well thought differently,
Luckily I am fairly well asymptomatic .I just notice the Afib when I get a "bad run" now and then.
I have been trying intermittent fasting for last 4 months and despite my Drs dire warning, not only have I lost 20kg without really trying, and I must say now it is a way of life for me , I do feel a lot better...... a huge side effect is I no longer have chronic indigestion!!
I can relate to much of what you say. I don’t even notice my permanent, rate-controlled AF most of the time and have a good quality of life. No one has suggested ablation and I suspect that my congenitally damaged heart may be structurally unsuitable. In any case, I am terrified of the procedure, having had three disastrous angiograms.
I lost about 20 lbs a year ago. All I did was eat smaller portions and cut down on certain things. I still have a cake or a glass of wine if I fancy it. The weight has stayed off. It took around 9 months to lose the weight.
I was in persistent AF , overweight and cardioversion didn't work. My only symptom was tiredness lack of energy partly due to Bisoprolol I am sure.
My EP gave me an 80 % chance of a successful ablation so I went for it.
6 months on it has been a success, I have a lot more energy no need for a sleep during the day and am just about off the beta blocker.Also the risk of a stroke is lower
Now I just need a new knee and to lose weight
Lots of advice. If you are committed to weight loss join a weight loss group. Great support and the element of being held accountable really helps. Like minded people with lots of tips. Be prepared to be amazed by the attitude of some though! There are moments when the utter banality drives you to drink ( not good) but totally worth it.
I thought my symptoms were pretty mild from persistent AF and had 2 failed cardioversions. However I did choose to have an ablation under GA which was successful and I now realise how much better I feel. Far more energy and just generally feeling much brighter. My EP felt it would be worthwhile having it as he said 'you are only 70'!!! He was very thorough and took his time in theatre (over 5 hours). I have a feeling he was determined not to let me leave theatre until he had it sorted after the failed cardioversions - a bit of a pride thing! When I came round and he told me I was back in NSR he said he thought I had a better than 50:50 chance or it holding. He is pretty dour so that was quite encouraging from him! Good luck with your choices.
You will have more energy and tolerate an ablation better with weight loss. Joining a weight loss support group will be to your advantage. You don’t have to hike mountains or bike for miles but the weight loss will help you walk to and from card games without fatigue. Keep us posted and good luck - don’t give up on the weight loss idea. I too am an ablation fan despite the after effects. Better than lots of meds.
I have an inspiring cousin who is 83 and walks every day at least an half hour.!Yes she has other health problems but keeps going like an energy bunny. She plays lots of cards and volunteers. I am 71.
I’ve had two ablations, zero side effects....for me they were no problem, try not to worry, or, dwell on it😉
The debate between chemical and ablation treatment plans between the cardiologists and electrophysiogists continue. Dr Google "Cabana" or "Ablation versus Chemical" will send you to sleep with boredom. Both routes (depending on the meds) seem to give similar periods of efficacy. You seem to be stuck between a rock and a hard place, though your weight and physical/mental well being are obviously in your mind. (Tai Chi also good for both). Perhaps go with your heart ( no pun intended) but check with your medical professionals and talk through your decision and digest their feedback. Good luck with which ever fork you choose.
The sleep study sounds a good idea, (not saying you have sleep apnea I am not a doctor but I have sleep apnea and it contributes to afib). I am same age and just underwent second ablation 3 months ago. Found breathing technique via dr. Gupta has helped me with ectopic. Just saying because don't know if you are or will ever deal with these. Good luck!!
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