Ablation or to stay away

[ratcheva]

Currently, I have highly symptomatic paroxysmal AFib with frequency 1-2 per month. Treatment with rate and rhythm control medications was not successful.

I use flecainide as pill in the pocket (PIP) 2 X 100 mg so usually in 2-3 hours I am back to sinus rhythm.

However, recently doctors told me that because of my structural heart disease (I have 5 cardio stents installed) I maybe should not use flecainide as PIP because of the possible ventricular pro arrhythmia.

Looks logical to go for ablation and if successful I could discontinue using flecainide.

However, I believe that the cause for my AFib episodes is my advanced coronary artery disease (CAD) and the possible ablation could be without success, since doctors are going to treat the symptom (AFib) and not the cause (CAD)

My question is which way I should go: Stay with the flecainide or go for ablation?

Your thoughts are welcome.

[rosyG]

I’ll leave the experienced to talk to you about ablation but flecanide is not safe with structural heart problems so hope your doctors can think of an alternative to help you regain nsr when you have episodes

[waveylines]

Sounds like you need to ask your specialist this question because of your complex heart issues? On the face of what your post says though it does seem ablation is the logical answer but you will need to discuss with your EP what the risks are of abalation with regards to your CAD. And also if there are any other options re medication if you dont have ablation. Sorry not to be of much help!

[ratcheva in reply to waveylines]

Thanks for your replay!

[reinaway]

I do know that I wanted to take flecainide as a PIP but the cardiologist insisted I had an CT angiography to check my heart out first and they found mixed plaque in one artery and he would not allow me to use it because of the danger of ventricular arrhythmia.

[ratcheva in reply to reinaway]

Thanks for your reply!

[ncernaa]

Coronary Artery disease can be improved by taking Nattokinase, or Serrapeptase supplements. And especially by a change in diet. Avoid all sugar and carbs.

[ratcheva in reply to ncernaa]

Thanks for the ideas. I take Eliquis 5 mg twice daily. Doctors believe that it provides better protection. I agree with the proposed change in diet.

[Kmm96]

Could Sotalol be an alternative for you?

[Madscientist16]

I would seriously consider the ablation. Since AF is an electrical problem of the heart and not a structural one, how many AF medications besides flec are not going to be available to you to due to your structural issues and the CAD. Perhaps the ablation could relive you from having so many AF episodes and then your doctor can concentrate on correcting your other heart and artery issues.

[ratcheva]

Thanks. It looks like that the ablation is the way to go. I will talk with a relevant doctor about it.