Breathing Difficulties

[Struggling2live]

Hello, I'm having terrible trouble breathing, so much so that I can't sleep, which of course makes everything worse. Can anyone recommend anything to make breathing easier when having an AF episode, or how to help me sleep. Thank you

[10gingercats]

I would suggest you consult your GP as this could be due to many things and we are not qualified to suggest what your problem is due to.

[mjames1]

As mentioned, breathing issues should be properly evaluated by your GP, cardiologist or ep.

Jim

[jeanjeannie50]

How long have you had trouble breathing? Have you sought any help regarding this matter? I know I would have.

Late last September/October I went to bed and suddenly was gasping for breath, was the most awful sensation. I dialled 999 and an ambulance came and the telephone operator kept me on the phone until they were here. I was taken to hospital and given oxygen on the way, it certainly helped (perhaps you need oxygen, or do you already have it?)

It was eventually discovered that I had pneumonia and Covid together and I was quickly transferred to a covid ward. So sorry for you having this problem.

Please, please, seek some help and let us know how you get on.

Jean

[opal11uk]

You really must see your GP as this needs urgent attention, it could be something or nothing but you need medical advice and help with this. I had the same, mine was due to fluid retention, putting a strain on my heart, I got the help I needed and the problem has almost gone away so rather than battling on seek help please.

[Lizziedoodle89]

I've tried night time rescue remedy and also lavender spray around the bed ,only little things but helps me with anxiety and palpitations

[mary70]

How can I breathe better with atrial fibrillation?

Deep, Mindful Breathing

Sit quietly and close your eyes.

Put one hand on your belly.

Breathe in slowly through your nose, feeling your stomach stretch out.

Breathe out slowly through your mouth and repeat.

22 Feb 2023

webmd.com › how-sto...

How to Stop an AFib Episode - WebMD

[Ossie7]

Agree with other replies advising seeking medical advice as I have had 3 episodes of persistent , uncontrolled AF with high heart rate and had shortness of breath on activity , climbing stairs etc but never on being inactive / sleeping . Then it’s all about feeling the awful rapid heartbeat , palpitations , dull cramping in chest area , but not breathlessness . Let us know what happens . Regards Amanda

[JOY2THEWORLD49]

Hi

What meds are you on?

cheri JOY. 74. (NZ)

[Buffafly in reply to JOY2THEWORLD49]

Bisoprolol, dose recently doubled 🙄

[JOY2THEWORLD49 in reply to Buffafly]

Hi Buffafly

Do you get asthma? Metoprolol was the worse with breathlessness and changing to Bisoprolol solved that.

But others here say that Bisoprolol caused their breathlessness.

You may not be able to take BBs.

If it is rapid pulse you could try Diltiazem low dose under your H/Specialist.

cheri JOY. 74. (NZ)

[Buffafly in reply to JOY2THEWORLD49]

Thanks Joy, I know I can’t take BBS, I was referring to the poster.

[jeanjeannie50]

I'm wondering how you are as we haven't had any replies? Really hope you are ok as I'm worried for you.

[Struggling2live in reply to jeanjeannie50]

Hello, I am Barry's brother, its Barry with the AF. He currently is having spasms of difficulties in breathing, and a general feeling of discomfort. All of which he reported to, and was discharged with, from the hospital a week ago. There appears to be vastly different experiences in the way people are treated. We can just get on with it.

[jeanjeannie50 in reply to Struggling2live]

That's dreadful to hear how he's being left to just get on with it. He mustn't be afraid to call out paramedics (999). They will immediately do a thorough check of him. I've had the experience of being discharged from A&E when poorly. My GP hit the roof when she found out and got me admitted that afternoon.

Don't let him suffer in silence. Does he have oxygen to use?

Jean

[Buffafly in reply to Struggling2live]

That’s terrible but thank goodness he has you caring about him. I would follow Jean’s advice but do help him to try controlled breathing - in, hold, out, hold, in again, all for the same amount of time, trying to get longer. Or try blowing out between pursed lips - my father had breathing problems and passed that helpful advice on. The more a person struggles to breathe in the more carbon dioxide builds up in the blood causing a feeling of panic. Best wishes, please let us know if you get any real help ❤️‍🩹

[JOY2THEWORLD49 in reply to Buffafly]

Hi

Are you a smoker or ever been a smoker?

cheri JOY

[Ppiman]

I wonder whether your troubles are related to the AF itself 9an event at the top of the heart, in the left atrium), or the high and irregular heart rate it is causing (an effect from the bottom of the heart, the ventricles)? Do you take your pulse when it happens? If it is the high rate, perhaps your doctor would recommend your taking an extra beta blocker dosage before bed, at least when episodes are likely?

It seems that many people deal well with the higher rate and the irregularity that AF often brings in its wake, but not all.

Steve

[Autumn_Leaves]

Any difficulties with breathing need urgent medical attention.

[BaileyC57]

Is this breathing problem have to do with any meds you are on! I am on some for my heart that makes me shortness of breath , so they had me cut it in half!