Afib question

[Stressbaker]

Hello!

I have two questions. Is it safe to drive when you are in Afib? How long should you let it go on before seeking medical attention? I am currently on Eliquis 5mg twice daily.

Thanks!

[BobD Volunteer]

Provided that you do not find your AF distracting or incapacitating here in UK ther is no driving restriction. You would need to check with your licensing department.

[Jajarunner]

I was under the impression that a previously undeclared afib would rule driving out. I've never dared drive while in afib but I know not everyone gets it so symptomatically. Check with DVLA in UK or equivalent

[Kendalghost]

Hi Stressbaker, early on with my AF I was dizzy and faint when having af episodes so I asked the cardiologist and he asked what was I doing when I felt like this. My answer was that I was standing or moving around. He said as long as you aren't dizzy or faint when you are sitting then you can drive a car.

[Snowgirl65]

When I was having increased a-fib episodes during a stressful period in my life (which included a new job!) I still drove to work in traffic jams while in a-fib. I'd eventually self-cure around noon while being buried in work.

[dwright12]

I drove to ER when I was in Afib and was told not to drive as I could faint.

[Stressbaker]

Yesterday was a weird one. I woke up at 1:00 AM in Afib. In the morning I had to drive 2 1/2 hours to deliver a wedding cake! I am new to Afib so I just wasn’t sure I was safe to drive because it does make me a bit faint feeling at times. I got ready and headed out to deliver this cake and while I was driving my heart converted itself back to normal sinus rhythm. This was only my 5th episode in 3 years. I realized I didn’t know what to do when it happens or after how long should I go to the ER? The first 4 times it only lasted about 4 hours each time. Yesterday it was about 9 1/2 hours. My heart rate was getting up to the 140s. When it was over I felt awful the entire rest of the day. This morning after a good sleep I feel normal and great! I guess I have a lot to learn about this condition! I don’t know how people who are in persistent Afib manage. They must feel terrible all the time.

[kocoach]

I was yelled at once by a triage nurse checking my vitals saying how irresponsible and selfish, he was saying what would have happened if I did blackout I could have gotten in an accident and killed someone. I see his point of view, but I still do it; when the occasion arises. Good Luck