How to avoid/manage episodes

[Polly159]

Despite being on Amiodarone, afib episodes are increasing in frequency to almost daily- still mainly overnight. I'm trying everything to keep working. I have some flexibility in my job (Parish Minister), but obviously when I need to be there, I need to be there(funerals etc). Cutting back as much as poss, but my question is on the days/times I 'take it easy' what will help me to be able to avoid or have less chance of an episode when I do have to work (if that makes sense)?

[BobD Volunteer]

Oh Polly I wish it were that easy. You have AF so you will get AF sadly. Avoid getting dehydrated so drink plenty of water, try to avoid stress and of course alcohol . Maybe difficult with the communion wine but fake it.

As we have mentioned before, weight loss (BMI less than 25) less meat and more plant food in diet , gentle exercise etc should all help.

[Polly159 in reply to BobD]

Thanks, BobD, have changed diet to lots of fruit/veg and getting on the treadmill. Overtime, hopefully, that will take effect. It is difficult to exercise at the moment with frequent episodes. Will try to have more rest/gentle exercise times. No worries about Communion wine - it's non-alcoholic!

Take care Polly

[Polly159 in reply to Polly159]

Yes, it's beginning to dawn on me that the nature of the illness is erratic and progressive. Hard to get your head round......

Thanks Take care Helen

[SRMGrandma Volunteer]

Bob hit the high points for sure with his answer. Good rest, stress reduction, eat real food, mostly plants, and adequate exercise are key. Afib is progressive, so that's the part that's tough to work around. Make sure that your EP knows that your episodes are increasing. Maybe it's time to talk about a new strategy/ consider ablation.

[Polly159 in reply to SRMGrandma]

Thanks SRMGrandma - have just handed in a heart event monitor, so hopefully the doc will respond soon.

Take care Polly