Questions to ask my cardiologist: any suggestions on what to ask after 8 months from diagnosis and mostly episode free.

[Frustrated12]

It is now eight months since being diagnosed with PAF at A&E. Since then had only a single two-hour episode. Pulse (so far) always been within normal limits. Had echo stress test and MRI - both with good results. Was prescribed Rivaroxiban, mainly due to age 76.

As meetings with cardiologist are like gold, I would like to make the best of this one. Suggestions on what to ask would be most welcome.

[chubby2x22]

Hi frustrated. I have emphysema and bronchiectasis, and A.f which has now been called heart failure diagnosed through blood test. Fast tracked early October to cardiologist but as yet no appts, seriously considering going private, not that anything seems worse but the stress is getting me down. I to need to know what I should ask. Take care. Jane

[Frustrated12 in reply to chubby2x22]

Thanks for reply Jane and sorry to hear about the emphysema and Bronchiectasis. Actually I have the same conditions and, as I am also a laryngectomee, winter is a bitter enemy. However, I can't advise you on what to ask the cardiologist as I am more or less in the same boat. Perhaps other members can help.

However, as regards your 'fast track' appointment, you could ring the consultant's secretary/PA and explain your anxiety and would she/he advise on your appointment date. If you don't know name of consultant, perhaps you could try cardiology appointments line and ask them if you have been scheduled for an appointment and if not what is their advice. You will need your hospital number or NHS number. Failing both these attempts, you could ring the hospital's PALS who are there to give advice to patients and usually know the best avenues to follow. No harm in being 'pro-active'. Best wishes and good luck.

[chubby2x22 in reply to Frustrated12]

Thank you. I'm going to start enquiries on Monday, better than thinking about it. Jane

[CDreamer]

I suppose the obvious - as I have had only 1 episode do I need to do anything? Is there anything more I could do to avoid further episodes?

Assuming you have normal weight, are otherwise fit and active and the AF is not affecting your normal lifestyle or restricting you in anyway.

My personal view is that until it is and because treatment for AF is for symptom control ie fast HR, breathlessness etc - less is more as all treatment has unwanted side effects so one has to consider which carries the highest risk - treatment or disease?

Sounds to me like - in your particular circumstances that treatment may carry more risk than the occasional episode of AF. Maybe that is something to ask?

The only consideration would be what do I do if episodes do become more frequent and more symptomatic?

Just my thoughts - hope they help.

[Frustrated12 in reply to CDreamer]

Thanks for the reply. Very helpful. Sometimes I forget to ask the obvious! But will still write those two down. Thanks again.

[secondtry]

Your cardiologist, like most of the NHS, is likely to be best at emergency medicine when something needs fixing urgently. Fortunately, you are not there and if I was you I would take some action on lifestyle (loads of suggestions on this Forum) and consult a Naturopath. Don't be tempted to leave this in the hope it won't return as the more episodes occur the more it is likely to re-occur until you end up with your cardiologist prescribing lots of drugs or an ablation. Good luck.

[Frustrated12 in reply to secondtry]

Thanks for that. Will definitely try hard on the lifestyle front.