I had an AF episode a year ago and this week I’ve had another…….fast heart rate, sweating, faint and feeling just awful. I’ve been taking Diltiazem for nearly a year and now the GP has prescribed Digoxin to go with it. Just wondered how often people might have these episodes and whether my symptoms were the common ones. I haven’t seen a Cardiologist even though I was referred a year ago and now becoming concerned as to what’s going on. In addition ,I have noticed my breathing is worse ,even though I have mild Bronchiectasis…. Could my heart be struggling? All a bit confusing.
Not sure what to do !
Written by
linc2u
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I'm sorry to hear that you're going through this. It's understandable that you might feel concerned but remember that you're not alone in experiencing these symptoms. Many people have episodes of afib and feel this way.
It's positive that you're taking Diltiazem and that your GP has prescribed Digoxin to help manage your symptoms - these meds can be very effective in controlling heart rate and rhythm.
The frequency of these episodes varies from person to person. Some people have them very rarely, while others have them more frequently. Keep track of how often you experience afib so you can report it to your Doctor.
In terms of your breathing, it's possible that your mild Bronchiectasis is contributing to your symptoms. However, it's also possible that your heart is struggling (this can be dealt with so don't worry) so it's important to see a cardiologist asap to determine the cause of your symptoms.
I haven't seen any sign of the meek inheriting the earth just yet. Make a nuisance of yourself and chase this up. They may not like it - tough. He who shouts loudest and all that! If you can afford it maybe it's worth paying for the first consultation with your Cardio privately and asking then to be referred through the NHS. Expect to pay around £250 - £300 for this. It sort of jumps the queue a little. Waiting 12 months to see a Cardio is not acceptable IMO. You may have slipped under the radar - it really is important to address this issue now.
You'll be fine but get the ball rolling and chase everything up
Yes , I now realise how important it is to see someone, but all I am told is that the cardiology dept is so very far behind !! I have asked my GP to chase it up but had no reply.
I did have an ablation 8 years ago in Leicestershire and had really good support but here in Lincolnshire things seem difficult.
I am on 120mg of Diltiazem and now my GP wants me to take 1.25 of Digoxin too.
My HR is usually 70-80 and BP around 125 but can vary quite a lot.
I’ve had the 24 hr ECG ( no results ) but still waiting for an Echocardiogram, even though it’s over a year since being referred!! Lincolnshire is very behind with referrals apparently. I am concerned since having my latest ‘episode’ of AF which really scared me…. And my breathing has worsened just lately. Hopefully I will get sorted soon🙈
In addition ,I have noticed my breathing is worse ,even though I have mild Bronchiectasis…. Could my heart be struggling?
I just saw my cardiologist on Tuesday with similar symptoms to yours .
The previous week I had a phone consultation and had Digoxin and Frusemide prescribed.
I had already been on Digoxin 125mg/day and Frusemide 40mg/day he sent me for an ultrasound and increased my Digoxin to 250mg/day and Frusemide 80mg/day and suggested a decreased fluid intake to help the diuretic work quicker. I see another specialist later in the month to check if the Diltiazem CD 240mg is still a viable option.
If I dont over exert I feel quite normal but walking up steeper inclines does make me breathless - I have found Digoxin has been really good at keeping a stronger pulse , mostly in the 70/80s instead of 100/120 which was really tiring.
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