Exhausted

[Steveh6874]

Hi everybody

I had my second ablation after being afib free for 7 years on Tuesday. the doctor did a lot more work this time and it was quite painful

I feel exhausted and I'm getting occasional shortness of breath and a quick stabbing pain now and again across the top of my chest I'm also struggling to sleep properly although im very tired

I know it's very early but I'm a bit worried I can't get no proper rest.my sleeps terrible i just wondered is this a common experience

Thanks Steve

[Hidden]

I think we all react differently during the very early stages of recovery. What you are describing is not unusual but if the stabbing pains don’t subside then I think you should consider getting it checked by going to A&E. I’m sure your sleeping pattern will return to normal soon, I reacted quite badly to the general anaesthetic and was as sick as a parrot once it was all over so it’s not surprising for the body to react to the trauma it’s been exposed to…..

[Steveh6874 in reply to Hidden]

Thanks really appreciate your reply

[Desanthony]

By the sound of it your body has taken a bit of a bit of a beating. I don’t think this is so unusual after such an experience while your body is healing and wondering what on earth just happened. I would talk to your gp or cardio nurses about the pain and if they say this is quite normal ask about taking a few days of sleeping tablets to try and get you back into a sleep/wake rhythm. I wouldn’t take for more than four or five days. You may find this will work if not leave a gap and take for another few days but don’t become dependent - this is a tip I got from my pharmacist. They may even say you can use over the counter or herbal but always ask and I would treat in the same way - or as they advise. Just take it easy during the day trying to get a nap after lunch I find all I need is a warm drink - decaf of course, sit down with my feet up with some daytime tripe on the TV and I nod off. You could also try yoga breathing to relax you. Eat at least 4 hours before going to bed as sometimes that can keep your body awake and maybe eating more light meals than a few big meals a day might also help. I put the radio on low when I go to bed so that it’s just a rumble in the background and this helps me drop off for a few hours - if you can’t get 7 or 8 hours in one go then go for 4 x 2 hour naps or whatever to get the rest you need until you are back in a rhythm.

[Steveh6874 in reply to Desanthony]

Thank you I really appreciate the reply

[Desanthony in reply to Steveh6874]

Something will work for you and this will only be short term. All the best and hope the ablation lasts and lasts for you.