It is a while since I last posted and I hope I am not repeating a recent subject. My history is that I was diagnosed with AF in 2014 aged 63. Typically, at its peak, I experienced 2 to 3 episodes per week lasting up to 24 hours each. I was prescribed Flecainide, Bisoprolol & Rivaroxaban
In response,
• I lost 3 stone which reduced my weight to 11 stone (BMI of 20) - everyone said I was too thin.
• Took 300 mg of Magnesium Citrate daily (which I have continued).
• Stopped all alcohol consumption (but see below).
• Increased my level of fruit consumption significantly.
My AF episodes have reduced dramatically. Here is a summary of episodes since my diagnosis (The ones that I have been aware of.)
2014 - 40
2015 – 3
2016 – 0
2017 – 2
2018 – 3
2019 – 6 (3 in July)
I have allowed my weight to increase to 12 stone (21.4 BMI). On reflection, 11 stone was too light. I also have had occasional alcohol, usually with bad results. The recent increase in episodes is almost certainly alcohol related so I have decided to give it up for good (again!).
There are also other problems. I fall asleep most evenings watching the TV then wake up late (sometimes at 2 am) and I can't get back to sleep when I go to bed. This causes frequent fatigue which feeds off itself. I wondered whether this is caused by my medication? In the past my consultant very firmly rejected my request for me to reduce or stop taking the medication. Nevertheless, in 2017 I tried to wean myself off the Bisoprolol and reduce the Flecainide but the AF returned so I went back to the prescribed dose.
I have again discussed my fatigue and medication with my local cardiologist and he has suggested that I consider an ablation so that I can stop taking the Flecainide and Bisoprolol. (I accept that I will always need to take an anticoagulant.) He has referred me to The John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford to discuss it. When I researched ablations a few years ago I decided that they were unreliable and firmly decided against it. I know some people take an opposite view and some, like Bob, are shining examples of a successful outcome. I also think technology may have moved on since my earlier research.
I will approach this meeting with an open mind but I would like your help. I have read the current AFA booklet about ablations but the personal experiences of others will also be valuable. If you have had an ablation and, based on your experience, you think I should be asking certain questions, or considering related issues, can you please advise me?
Thanks.