Afib change

[Bobbo52]

My usual afib pattern was nothing for a couple of months then afib at 140bpm for 24 hrs.

Suddenly it’s changed to daily episodes lasting 2 to 4hrs. Is this significant? Or just typical afib attitude. Nothing I think of is triggering it although seems to occur after a meal.

Thanks

[Kennyb1968]

Do you take any rhythm control meds?

[Bobbo52 in reply to Kennyb1968]

Usually 2.5mg Bisoprolol plus of course apixiban.

[Buffafly in reply to Bobbo52]

That’s a no as bisoprolol isn’t mainly for rhythm control.

[Thanks55 in reply to Buffafly]

I am a bit confused as I was prescribed bisoperal for my afib

[Buffafly in reply to Thanks55]

Bisoprolol lowers your heart rate and bp and has mild anti arrhythmic properties so it is the first go to medication for AF but it doesn’t generally stop AF. So it isn’t counted as a rhythm control medication such as Flecainide or Amiodarone.

[Thanks55 in reply to Buffafly]

Thanks for your reply

I

[secondtry]

Suggest private cardio appointment asap. Those episodes need to be stopped or reduced substantially, otherwise more issues will likely arise. You may be prescribed Flecainide, a powerful but relatively tried and tested drug; some here have been on it for 30+ years but not suited for everyone.

[Buffafly]

Try smaller more frequent meals (or less food) and try to avoid foods that can cause bloating or gas. Fix constipation. Think if you have changed your diet in any way. It does sound as if pressure on your heart area is causing the new pattern so if self help doesn’t work fairly quickly see your GP.

[bassets]

think the last two comments are right - you need to talk to a consultant as soon as you can. Best wishes

[theohappy]

I do think it is typical AFib progression, but needs to be addressed better. Though not a rhythm drug I found Diltiazem, a calcium channel blocker, helped keep my AFib under control.

[dmac4646]

have you had COVID recently ?