PAF returns after high stress at work

[MS444]

I have resigned after the return of PAF as a direct result of weeks of 70+ Hour working weeks and limited sleep. It was actually exhaustion that caused it. I’ve been on sick leave for two weeks and have have 8 PAF episodes since 10 January. Prior to that no AF after successful ablation in March 2016. I will retire now. No more stress. 63 is too old for that! Any age is too old for it.

[BobD Volunteer]

Agreed. MS444. I got out at 52 and did my own thing but was lucky enough to have an index linked company pension. 22 years later it was still the best thing I ever did but it didn't stop my AF which was not finally diagnosed till five years later.

[MS444 in reply to BobD]

Well I hope you are well. I might need a touch up ablation, but am unsure whether that is the best option. I can stop it fast with PIP Flecainide (30-60 min)

[jeanjeannie50]

Wishing you a happy retirement. I'm trying to think what job could possibly expect you to work 70+ hours.

Jean

[lovetogarden]

Congrats on making that decision to retire! 70 hour work eeks weeks aren’t healthy! I’m 63 and retiring soon too. I run my own business and my health couldn’t take the stress of travel and too many hours of work, even though I really love what I do and will miss it. I gave up my grueling travel schedule when my heart stuff started and have slowly been winding down. So glad you’ll be able to do the same and focus on being healthy! Congrats and good luck!!

[Kaz747]

Sorry to hear that ill health has forced you into early retirement. I’m sure however that you’ll love the relaxed pace of life when you settle down. I’ve been off work for 8 months with my own health issues. I’m hoping to get back to work within a few months but need to negotiate a new role and fewer hours. It was stress that pushed me over the edge and my body said “no more” much like yours has done. I’m hoping once things are under control I can work for another 6-7 years at least part time (I’m only 54). These are the years when the kids are finally grown up and less dependent that we’re supposed to be able to save more for our retirement and set ourselves up for our “golden years”. But without health there is no wealth so priorities sometimes have to shift. I hope you can now enjoy all your hobbies and interests that you didn’t have time for before.

[secondtry]

My advice (on health grounds) after such a busy time would be not to completely retire but choose a related occupation to use your experience and work at a rate that suits you e.g. it can wait until tomorrow. I was very busy up to 55 (no doubt contributing to AF) then chose to start a Social Enterprise and loving it; also takes your mind of AF. Having craved a rest from a structured lifestyle for decades, I now appreciate some structure is important.

[lizardo]

Exactly what happened to me but I got to 66. The stress of the workforce these days was one of the prime causes for my PAF. I wish I had pulled the pin earlier.

[Ianc2]

Congratulations, a new life beckons. Time to sit down and work out where you are with regard to fitness, weight, diet and health. Give yourself an MOT, Get your blood pressure, cholesterol and sugar levels checked. Buy a good quality weighing machine and a tape measure. Get your waist to half your height by dumping complex carbs and sugar.

Buy yourself a fitbit or similar and use it to monitor your activity levels as you rediscover the joys and pleasures of getting out and about for a brisk walk for 30 minutes every day, the world is now open to you so get out there and enjoy it, you have made a great decision.

[bennie06]

Congratulations! My advice is to ignore all advice. A new chapter begins and time to be you. Good luck.