Managing SVT at work

[HowMyHeartSings]

Hi - relatively newly diagnosed 8 weeks ago & now getting daily occurrences of SVT - just moved up from one tablet 2.5 mg of Bisoprolol to 2.5 twice a day. My biggest concern is returning to work and dealing with any episodes there. I’m the director & public face of my organisation, leading meetings and expected to attend a lot of public functions in the evening too. Currently I’m exhausted and anxious in bed by 9PM. Any experiences to share on how you manage this condition & work?

Thanks so much.

[Kaz747]

Hi there, welcome to the world of life with arrhythmias. I’ve just returned to work after a year off with electrical heart dramas, procedures and complications. My employer was amazing and ai’ve gone back 3 days a week. My role also involves a lot of before and after hours events. I think it’s important to rest when you can, listen to your body and try not to take on as many commitments which I know is easier said than done. My brain still wants to go 100 mile per hour but I know I need to put my health first - eat well, exercise, sleep well, meditate, relax. I’ve had busy weeks when I’ve ended up sleeping for 10 hours at the end of the week. I have to retrain my thinking- I’m not wasting time - I’m aiding my recovery. Since my last ablation my heart is fairly good. Sometimes the medication can wear you out as well so hopefully you’ll get your meds right and potentially, if you are given the option of an ablation, that will fix you up for a while. all the best.

[Madscientist16]

Yep, Kaz is right on the money. It takes a change in mind set. You can't go 100 miles a hour and be aware that the stress you may be feeling is being generated by yourself and not the work. Take care of yourself. Take breaks if you can. Go for a walk. Listen to music. Breathe.