tachy brady afib?

[faridaro]

About over a year ago I was diagnosed with Afib, however had some heartbeat irregularities in the past that didn't show up on EKGs. Usually my heart was going fast, however lately at times it started dropping from 120s to 40s for a period of time before settling down or, like today went from 70s to 40s and then up to 120s. I take 50 mg Flecainide 3 times/day and 6mg warfarin. Will see EP in a couple of days to schedule ablation. Any insights or advice regarding this erratic beats would be greatly appreciated.

[meadfoot]

This past month I have experienced the same which is different for me as usually my af is extremely fast only. Can't help with a reason. In my case I am assuming it's possibly a different pattern taking hold. I will ask my EP too. Will be interested what your EP says. Good luck,

[Kaz747]

I can’t share any insights or advice but according to my Fitbit over the last 2 nights my heartrate has dropped a few times to 42. Prior to that the lowest rate at night was generally low to mid 50s. I’ll see what happens tonight. If it’s like that again I’ll contact my EP. Meanwhile whilst in AF today whilst watching tv it’s been up and down but as high as 118 (and I’m on drugs to keep the rate down).

[Hidden]

This sounds suggestive of Tachy Brady, though I believe Flecainide can (rarely) cause AV block with bradycardia. Do you have a Kardia to get a print out of the bradycardia to measure the pr interval, to show the EP?

[faridaro in reply to Hidden]

No, I don't have Kardia, maybe should get one, though I am not very good with modern technology

[Buffafly]

Mine has done similar things but my EP already suggested I have early tachybrady syndrome. Before my ablation my resting HR on medication was 50/55 but since ablation it is 68. That makes a big difference to energy levels and also means I can take a bigger dose of meds if necessary.

[Hidden]

I would just say take care & discuss carefully with your cardiologist / EP as my understanding is that this type of arrythmia can, in some cases lead to syncope due to short pauses between the tachy Brady phases. I have a friend who required a pacemaker in her early 60’s due to this.

I’m not medical, other than having a nursing background, and all cases are different. I do think it’s good to be aware, however, so if you are dizzy, especially if you have pre-syncope (near fainting), you should report this immediately.

Best wishes

Pat x

[faridaro]

Thank you Pat for taking your time to respond. I'll bring it up at my appointment.

[Khatpi]

Agree wholeheartedly with Archie89 that you should report your symptoms to your cardiologist and also secure an Electrophysiologist ASAP. I have more confidence in the EP as this is their specialty. They should always listen to you. I have a Pacemaker for a diagnosis of Sick Sinus Syndome and also A Fib. Please don’t wait to seek help for yourself . Best wishes. Sarah

[faridaro in reply to Khatpi]

Thank you Khatpi for taking time to respond. Yes, I've seen EP's assistant today and got scheduled for ablation in 3 weeks. I also mentioned the low pulse. Would need to find out more about Sick Sinus Syndrome.