Just checking in

[MatlockSteven]

After I wrote my ablation experiences several people asked me to checkin with results / news. I'm now just heading for 3 months post op. The news is overall.... GREAT.

Around 2 weeks after my op I went into afib for 8 hours. It was unlike my usual route in - this started with ectopics, then was runnign an ectopic every second beat, then decended into chaos. I was convinced this was terrible and the op hadn't worked - I didn't really believe all the stuff about not judging it by the first weeks in.

HOWEVER. Since then... no problems at all. So I'm well over 2 months afib free!

I'm not really thinking of this as "permanently cured" as then I'll be too disappointed if it does rear its head again later (which I know it may well do) but for now I feel SO much better in general. My heart is ticking over nicely. Had ectopics in the first month, but nothing since. My resting BP is now 65, up from 45, and I think that is actually working better for me, generally feel like I have more energy even compared to pre op without afib.

I'm getting back into a bit of exercise (yoga, swimming). I feel like I could do a lot more, but I'm going real easy on myself. I used to be a runner / triathlete (very much amateur).. but I feel like that kind of really pushing it cardio is never again going to be a good idea for me however I might gradually work back up to a jog around the block. Although Id be interested to know group here's thoughts on that.. and I will be asking my EP his thoughts in a few weeks. I'd really love to get back into full on cardio exercise but increasing my chances of staying afib free is by far my number 1 priority.

Overall its good news from me, so glad I decided to go ahead with the ablation, and thankful for the NHS!

[jeanjeannie50]

I'm so pleased to hear that you are AF free now. Long may that continue and thanks for reporting back.

Jean

[rosyG]

great news- agree you are wise to build up exercise slowly- and don't ever exercise to the point where you build extra heart muscle up again- as happens with athletes

[ijan]

Hi MatlockSteven,

Deleighted to hear your heart is on an even keel.

I gradually returned to exercise, mostly sea kayaking, walking and swimming, after my first ablation which kept me free from arrhythmia for nearly nine years. The sea kayaking, in particular, sometimes required bursts of sustained, high adrenalin, effort. As far as I'm aware it had no part in my needing touch up Afib and flutter ablations many years later. I would stress that, at 66 I'm no longer as fit as I once was; but, the reason for going down the ablation route was so I could be free of the drugs which sapped my energy......and return to doing the things I loved.

Take one step at a time and, if in doubt take advice!

Good luck and thanks for posting.

[Gincalpe]

Good news stay AF free and enjoy exercise

[KMRobbo]

I am 12 months Post ABLATION and AF free. I started back running 4 months after the ablation. I only do 6 miles twice a week and a 25 mile to 50 mile cycle ride. Just to keep in some shape. I am 58.

[jedimasterlincoln]

Great news Steven! I'm 3 weeks post 5th ablation now, and starting to feel a bit stronger but still quite tired quite easily, so trying to reign things in for a bit longer!

Everything crossed for you

[Morzine]

Great news to hear.....I’m day 17 miles behind you......it’s nice to hear how everyone’s doing,

Sue

[JulieTw33]

Excellent news! I just realized I’m at exactly 3 months post ablation today! Off all meds and zero a-fib episodes. I started yoga a month ago and a little treadmilling. Really happy to hear of your success. Keeping fingers and toes crossed for us all that we stay in NSR as long as possible!! 😊