Esophagus pain after cardioversion

[acordeon]

I had a cardioversion for AF a week ago, been in NSR since then. It was my second one this month, previous one was 2 weeks before that.

Since this last cardioversion I have had mild-to-moderate esophagus pain and some stomach pain. I can tell the chest pain is esophageal and not heart because its quality changes when I swallow, and I can feel food/drink going down in a way I don't normally. It also seems to be improved somewhat by antacids.

I am also taking daily low-dose aspirin since the cardioversion, on advice of the administering doctor, as a precaution against stroke. (They don't have me on a real blood thinner since I'm at very low stroke risk overall.)

Is esophageal pain/injury something that can happen as a result of cardioversion? I'm not finding much online about it. Have any of you had similar symptoms post-cardioversion? If so how long did it last?

It's also possible the aspirin is aggravating it, and I may inquire about stopping that.)

Thanks much!

[jeanjeannie50]

I can only tell you that I've had lots of cardioversions and have never had the soreness you are describing. I would guess that its more likely to be the aspirin you're taking - now I have had soreness from them. Try taking it mid meal to see if that helps. Otherwise let your GP know.

Jean

[BobD Volunteer]

I agree to the aspirin being the culprit. Here in UK it is very much avoided other than for people with stents or artificial heart valves. It may be that during the zap you jerked violently and bruised your oesophagus? Having had to fake one for a film once I can attest to the violence. lol 😁

[Mugsy15]

I'm amazed at this! If your stroke risk is low, why on earth were you prescribed aspirin to address your stroke risk? It makes no sense!

[acordeon in reply to Mugsy15]

I agree!

[Ppiman]

The aspirin might well be causing the oesophagus pains as it is very sensitive area in some people. I would mention this to your doctor. My father became very poorly from nausea and it turned out it was his daily “low dose” aspirin.

Steve