My Heart Hurts

[Challiefan]

Just wondering about other peoples experience...

I had my second Radiofrequency Ablation three months ago, which I think has helped a bit with the number and severity of AF episodes I experience.

However, I am experiencing occasional short periods, never lasting more than one minute when my heart hurts, sometimes quite a lot. It's a bit like how I imagine being stabbed would hurt.

I'm wondering if anyone else has experienced the same thing. I know nerves can be damaged during the procedure. I guess the frequency of incidents will decline over the coming months, but just in case, is it something to be concerned about?

Many thanks in advance for your responses.

[Hidden]

I don’t think it’s a common experience but the heart will still be in recovery mode. When are you due for your review? If it’s a while and the pain continues it might be a good idea to contact the hospital/Arrhythmia Nurse.

[Challiefan in reply to Hidden]

No date yet for a review, but I agree. I'll contact the hospital if it continues. Thanks!

[jeanjeannie50]

I would talk to your EP about this as it doesn't sound right to get pain so long after your ablation. Occasional pain in the first few weeks can be common. I had it a few days after my second ablation and thought perhaps it was a heart attack. I spoke to my GP who said, to put it down as an experience, but let him know if it happened again - it never did!

You're not trying to do too much are you?

[Challiefan in reply to jeanjeannie50]

I experienced migraines for 2/3 days after the Ablation, and I'm wondering if there's a connection somewhere - nerve damage of some kind. It commonly occurs if I move, or if I'm in an awkward position.

I'm pleased to say it's definitely not because I'm trying to do too much ;). I really ought to do more. I have started taking walks again which really is very pleasant.

[BobD Volunteer in reply to Challiefan]

If you read our fact sheet on recovery you will see that migraine is a common side effect caused by the transeptal puncture. heartrhythmalliance.org/res...

[Challiefan in reply to BobD]

Thank you Bob :).

[Buffafly]

It may not be your heart that is hurting. It could be a problem with your oesophagus as the burn can be quite close to it. The heart pain I get is a ‘python squeeze’, not stabbing. But of course, report it 💜

[Challiefan in reply to Buffafly]

Thanks - interesting. And yeah, I really ought to not be so British - stoical stiff upper lip, and all that. You've all encouraged me to report it - so I will :).

[WallMatt]

I remember feeling something quite like that in the weeks after my ablation - short lived, piercing. It's been three years now and I don't remember how long that persisted, but as it was" forgettable"probably not too long. It led me to realize just how much of an assault on the heart this procedure really is...

[jeanjeannie50]

How are you now?