Ablation review + thyroid review......

This last few days have been a bit busy with telephone reviews so, for those interested, here is an account of progress.

In January 2020, I had Radioactive Iodine treatment (RAI) for an overactive thyroid. Latest blood tests indicate that with the exception of TSH level, T3 and T4 levels reached normal range by May this year and have remained stable so I have been discharged but will continue to have bi-annual blood tests to monitor progress. Back in 2016, I had a Cryoablation which started OK but I needed a RF ablation in September 2018 mainly because there had been a problem treating one of my pulmonary veins. Everything was fine, but in the last six months of last year I had 7 episodes followed by another 2 up to July this year. All were quickly stopped with Flecainide as PiP. Back in December last year, my EP suggested a 3rd ablation and I was put on his list. Last May, he rang me to say all ablation were on hold due to Covid but when I mentioned the thyroid treatment, he said we needed to get that sorted before progress with an ablation. Since the thyroid levels stabilised, my heart has been more stable too so we have agreed to review in 6 months time. Whilst I am pro ablation, this to me, seems a good result. Kardia reports were invaluable so it’s wait ‘n see time.........

[Ianp66]

Hopefully your getting somewhere FJ, I didn't know until I read just how much it can affect the heart and other things . Funny as I was just speaking today about my thyroid as I get the odd flutter, and on reading symptoms seem to have commonalities which identify as thyroid issues.

[Hidden in reply to Ianp66]

Yes, the connection between the thyroid and AF is not often discussed but an overactive one can cause serious arrhythmia problems. The UK Thyroid group here on Health Unlocked are very vocal and are strongly of the view that thyroid issues generally are not understood by clinicians. I was lucky, my Endocrinologist knew his stuff but I was still very nervous about being “zapped”!

[pottypete1]

That is very positive news I hope things continue to stabilise.

Pete

[Hidden in reply to pottypete1]

Thanks Pete........take care.

[BobD Volunteer]

All sounds positive FJ.

[Hidden in reply to BobD]

👍

[ramblerbaz3]

Good news you seem to be on the up & great the Kardia was invaluable......All the best !!!

[Hidden in reply to ramblerbaz3]

Thanks rb, I am very pleased with the outcome.....

[LordGabriel]

Sounds good then... getting somewhere! ❤️

[Hidden in reply to LordGabriel]

👍 watching your progress with interest too.....us St George’s patients need to stick together!

[LordGabriel in reply to Hidden]

I’m back to work now. Still only ‘work from home’ but feeling ok! ❤️

[Hidden in reply to LordGabriel]

👍

[oceangoing]

Good luck and best wishes going forward.

[Hidden in reply to oceangoing]

👍

[cbsrbpm]

Well that all sounds like good news, will keep my fingers crossed that all stays nice and quiet for you 🤫x

[ling]

It certainly is!

Thank you for sharing. It's important that info like this gets put out here.

AF caused by hyperthyroidism is a very real and serious problem which can have potentially serious consequences if not addressed.

Thanks Flapjack!

[Hidden]

Good on yer Flapjack ..... great news. Just keep on keeping on.By the way which model Kardia are you using ??😃😃😃

John

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Thanks John, one of the first one, runs on coal......😉

[Hidden]

Can I ask what your TSH level is? Di

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Records start in 2004 when it was 0.05, currently 0.02

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Welcome to the club! Mine is always 0.02. Cardiologist says no problem whatsoever!

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

👍

[jeanjeannie50]

Great news FJ, really hope the thyroid zapping has worked and you'll now be AF free. How wonderful that possibility must feel for you! Best wishes.

Jean

[Hidden]

Thanks Jean, gotta keep positive....👍

[wilsond]

Well that may one positive from all this carry on with Covid ,in that the pause in treatments may have helped identify root cause .I hope whatever the outcome you continue to do well ,at least you know 3rd ablation was actually necessary if it is suggested

Look after yourself FJ xx🙂🙂

[Hidden in reply to wilsond]

Yes wilsond, no one wants to go down the ablation route unless it’s necessary. Thanks for your support, it’s very much appreciated.......

[Barb1]

At least there is a plan although necessitating more waiting. Interesting about Flecainide. I am having a drug stress echo tomorrow to see if my arteries are ok to take Flecainide. Then will be taking it daily in preparation for my next ablation in ????

[Redders]

That’s great news FJ I didn’t realise the thyroid could cause AF. I have a goitre in my thyroid, wonder if that’s the cause of my AF

[Hidden in reply to Redders]

Oh yesssss, well worth getting it checked out Redders......l

[doodle68]

HI FJ 😊 pleased to hear things are stable for you at the moment, long may it continue.,

[Hidden in reply to doodle68]

Many thanks Doodle....

[brit1]

My AF started when a foolish dr got my TSH too low. I have to keep it between 2-4 if I get below 1 thats what put me in the ER with my first AF episode 11yrs ago