Flu Can Bring Back AFIB

[MrFizz]

I live in Australia and flu is rife here at the moment as we go into winter.

I have had the flu this last 5 days and with it, my AFIB returned 24*7 and thought I would share my experiences.

I read on the internet that various medical studies show that in 18% of cases the flu will bring back AFIB in otherwise AFIB free persons.

Flu can inflame the heart and thats where the AFIB can kick back in like in my case where I had an enlarged atrium and electrical impulses go haywire.

I immeditely took 2 magnesium tablets a day - I dont know if this helped in any way, but as the Flu evolved, after 2 more days the 24*7 AFIB stopped and went away completely - I assume the heart inflamation has reduced as I heal, so normal heart electrical impulses resumed.

It took me by surprise and glad its resolved - just thought I would share this in-case others experience this.

[jeanjeannie50]

That's interesting to hear and thanks for the tip.

Jean

[CDreamer]

Hi - yep only time I now get AF is if I have any sort of infection which causes inflammation. I had pneumonia with both Flu and COVID in the las few years which resulted in AF returning.

I tend to use anti-inflammatory foods and supplements as a solution.

Best wishes

[BobD Volunteer]

Any kind of inflamation in the body can bring on AF as we frequently say here but always good to remind people. Clean living and a good diet help.

[mjames1]

Thanks for sharing. Viral illnesses, especially with fever and/or vomiting, can cause dehydration which can trigger afib. Not always easy, but try to increase fluids and replace lost electrolytes. I've found sports drinks like Gatorade, or one of the non-sugar equivalents, helps at times like these. I also find them easier to get down than plain water when I'm sick.

Jim

[wilsond]

Thank you for sharing. What strength magnesium did you take please?

[MrFizz in reply to wilsond]

Magnesium tablets are 150mg each

[Bagrat]

Thank you. That makes sense. I take magnesium daily anyway these days but didn't then.Once established on suitable meds, the only time my a fib has occurred for more than a couple of minutes was when I had a very nasty viral infection in 2013.

[7164]

Yep same as you I am on my 2nd covid infection right now and it brought my af back briefly yesterday.

That is the first time since my ablation 2 years ago. Scary!!

[KMRobbo]

I have not got afib post ablation but k ow that ant bug brings on mote ectopics for me.

[Windlepoons]

I had the flu in March and had four AF episodes in two weeks. Certainly not normal for me as it is once or twice a month or bimonthly. So I think what you said is a valid observation.