Gastric issues after ablation

[Browncoat]

Hi,

I'm looking for some reassurance please; I had an ablation for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation on Tuesday under general anaesthesia and came home that same evening.

Although I still have a slightly 'tight' chest (not surprising!) when I yawn or take a full breath, and I am still easily tired, I am a bit worried as I am getting pain in my oesophagus (presumably) when I swallow. It appears to be worse today than yesterday, and I wasn't aware of it before.

The discomfort is the same whether it's just saliva, water, or food. Each swallow results in 2 to 4 distincy 'waves' spread out over 10 - 30 seconds before subsiding.

Is this common? Am I worrying unduly?!

Thanks!

[Hidden]

It’s not unusual, normally due TOE procedure (camera down the throat) to make sure there are no nasty blood clots lurking or from other activity during the procedure. If you haven’t already, read the following factsheet.

heartrhythmalliance.org/res...

[Browncoat in reply to Hidden]

Thanks Hidden . I had read that several weeks ago, but have re-read it and it has allayed my fears. I think I'll keep up with the pain killers, get some Gaviscon, and see how things progress.

[Buffafly in reply to Browncoat]

Good idea, many people are prescribed antacids for several weeks anyway after ablation. If it gets worse or you develop a fever get advice promptly.

[Golfer60UK]

Usually due to a probe down the throat to check your heart has no clot before the procedure takes place

Hope all ok now

Dave

[Browncoat in reply to Golfer60UK]

Thanks, Golfer60UK . I seem to remember being told that they weren't intending to use a TOE during my ablation (I assumed because my CHA2DS2-VASc (stroke risk) score is zero?).

But I think tomorrow I'll ring the number I was given when discharged as it's not really getting any easier, and it wasn't evident for the first couple of days. I feel they ought to know just in case it keeps worsening.

[Buffafly in reply to Browncoat]

If it was RF ablation the burn can be a bit too close to oesophagus for comfort so good to report 💜

[Browncoat]

Update -

I spoke to an arrythmia nurse at the hospital that carried out my procedure, who spoke to the surgeon and called me back with a prescription for omeprazole at a pretty high dosage (40mg) . I assume this is to prevent/restrict any possible ulceration?

Anyway, I took the first dose this morning - fingers crossed!

My heart is (so far) behaving itself pretty well; a few isolated ectopics, but nothing like before 😀

Thanks for everyone's help.