Could this be AF?

[Palpman]

I was put on Flecainide after 27 years of frequent SVT attacks. I have never had AF but recently I did have one that I had chemically converted and have had ectopics since. The ECG showed AF that converted to SR.

Now whenever I stand and lift my arms up, I feel so dizzy I have to sit down. I have also noticed that my heartbeat varies between 58 and 74 while resting.

At night when I lie on my sides I feel nauseous and have to lie on my back.

I have also noticed swelling in both ankles that I have never experienced before.

Could it be that I'm in AF without knowing it?

[pip_pip]

More to do with the Flecainide, I suspect. That drug can change heartbeats. And things don't always change back after stopping it. However it would be wise to review its further use. Personally I had a terrible time with Flecainide, and i only used it for a 3 days. I was in hospital for a week with flecainide toxicity.

Phil

[Jt222]

Yes sounds familiar. My AFib/Flutter always came when I layed in my side. I had to spend a year propped up with a wedge under my back, and it sucked sitting up to sleep! I've had SVT as well and it does feel similar to aflutter. I have a implant monitor so I know what is going on all the time, might be good idea for you as well(medtronics). I would get the swelling checked though as that could be a sign beginning stage heart failure, something all us "bad rhythmers" worry about! Keep us informed.

[Palpman in reply to Jt222]

Thanks for the replies. I've stopped taking my amlodipine for BP and now, 3 days later my ankles are still swelling up in the evenings. BP is still good at 115/74 and that rules out amlodipine.

This leaves the Flecainide as the cause or the kidneys that cannot excrete the extra Flecainide leaving it to build up to toxic levels.

I have a kidney function test on the 16th so will have to wait.

[Jt222 in reply to Palpman]

Thanks for the update. I hope you figure this out soon.

[Palpman in reply to Jt222]

It's a week later and my ankles are only slightly swollen.

The Amlodipine must be out my system now so I can assume that this was the culprit for the swelling.

[Jt222 in reply to Palpman]

Great to hear!