Post ablation chest pain

[Kmm96]

Anyone get chest tightness and have a hard time taking full breaths the day after ablation surgery?

[David21]

I woke up the following day and pain was very bad. Was advised to go to A&E where after a day of tests was told I had pericarditis, an inflamation of the pericardium. I was put on colchicene but I have to admit that I had the problem for quite a few months. I suggest you talk to your EP abou this and wish you well

[MarkS]

I think that's standard. I remember not being able to take full breaths and my heart hurt a bit. It should ease over the next few days, but probably a couple of weeks until it's fully gone.

[CDreamer]

I had some pain in the thoracic area, mainly in my back. If you are having a hard time taking breaths then I would suggest you contact the number you were given at discharge to talk to the Arrythmia nurse as soon as possible. My understanding is that some soreness and a little pain is normal but you should be able to breath.

If you are concerned - please don’t hesitate to go to A&E.

[The_Lord_is_with_Us]

I've had 4 ablations. No pain whatsoever like that. However, plenty of patients have had that ... but most said it dissipated over time.

[BobD Volunteer]

Find somebody who doesnt. Read our fact sheet:- heartrhythmalliance.org/res...

[Barb1 in reply to BobD]

Bob this link isn't working

[BobD Volunteer in reply to Barb1]

try now. corrected.

[Barb1 in reply to BobD]

thank you

[jedimasterlincoln]

I was sore and uncomfortable but I was able to breathe without pain, it was the moving around or certain positions that hurt. Particularly after the 5th ablation had a difficult penetration of my septum.

Any breathing difficulty and you should seek advice immediately.

[Snowgirl65]

Oh yes, most definitely! I remember well that feeling after my ablation in 2019, like an elephant sitting on my chest! I can't remember how long it lasted, but note that if I exerted myself too much (I'm an avid gardener) it would return. So heed your body's warning signals and take it easy for a few weeks, despite the literature saying you'll be back to normal sooner. My second ablation is coming up in 6 days and I assume I'll be dealing with the after effects as you are now. Happy recovery!