Change in symptoms

[Wanderlust37]

Hi, I’m new to the forum but so glad to finally have a space to learn about other’s experiences of living with AF.

Im 37 and have had AF since I was 25. However the last 18 months it has got a lot worse, in particular the last 4 months with now experiencing constant daily flutters. I had one review over the phone during lockdown with the cardiologist and when I called for an appointment recently I was advised they discharged me. I’ve since been referred and am awaiting an appointment.

I have been feeling exhausted and never actually associated it with AF until I’ve read some of your experiences on this thread.

I was prescribed Flecanide PRN but am thinking I need to take it on a regular basis so definitely need a review of meds.

Just wanted to get some thoughts.

Thanks

[10gingercats]

If you feel worried you can always put yourself on the cancellation list in the cardio. dept. So when someone drops out they will ring you and you can quickly slip into that place. You sometimes get a days notice of the cancellation or it may be a few hours. Just be ready to go.

[Wanderlust37 in reply to 10gingercats]

that’s a good idea, I didn’t realise that was an option. Thanks

[Hidden]

If it’s possible, think about arranging a private appointment with an Electrophysiologist (EP). The sooner you see someone the better but you need to make it clear that any ongoing treatment needs to be undertaken on the NHS.

[Wanderlust37 in reply to Hidden]

I had considered a private consultation, but was very happy with my cardiologist up to Covid. Where everything seems to have gone off track. This is a great suggestion, thank you

[Silky57 in reply to Wanderlust37]

Your own NHS cardiologist might also offer private appointments. Mine does.

[jeanjeannie50]

I was feeling extremely tired and blamed it on AF, then it was discovered that I had an underactive thyroid. Taking levothyroxine, to rectify that, has given me back my energy. Have you had a blood test to check your thyroid levels?

Jean

[Autumn_Leaves in reply to jeanjeannie50]

Thyroid problems can also cause arrhythmias, so good idea even if only to either rule it out or treat if there is a problem there.

[secondtry]

It is unlikely that your EP or cardiologist will major on lifestyle choices and probably won't mention them. Luckily there are lots of posts here and I would recommend you look into making better choices, never too early and some enlightened medics will step out of their individual silos of expertise and support you.

[BlueINR]

It should be the doctor's decision, and not yours, if you take the med PRN, or regularly, so please discuss with doctor ASAP.