AF and a compression fracture

[pusillanimous]

Shortly after I was diagnosed with AF, I suffered a compression fracture of my T8 (osteopenic). This reduces the space available to 'house' your organs in the abdominal space. The orthopedic surgeon offered me a procedure whereby a cement could be inserted in the spine to recover the lost space. I refused because I have met too many people who have had unsuccessful operations and procedures on their spines. However, I have since found , it's a while ago, that if I eat a largish meal my HR speeds inconsiderably, and I wonder if it is possible that the reduced space has caused the Vagal nerve to move closer to my heart, and extra food requiring more space pushes it closed to the heart and irritates it.I eat small meals now, so it rarely happens, but would be interested to know if anyone else suffered this.

[CDreamer]

Probably I fear. Eating smaller meals has always helped and was recommended by nutritionist - eat less, more often so 3-4 smaller meals within an 8 hour window really does help.

So sorry about spinal issues.

[pusillanimous in reply to CDreamer]

Yes I agree - I do not eat after 5.50pm (unless I have to go out to dinner) and go to bed at 10pm. Anxiety is part of my life, I take Alprazolam for it. I know this is a drug that has 'pariah' status, but my GP prescribed it, and the 3 different Cardiologists I have seen, not because I was unhappy with them, but one moved too far away, another was always over booked - my current one is perfect, he is near me, paces his appointments so there is no overbooking, but I fear he is nearing retirement age !, have no problem with it.

[BobD Volunteer]

Not sure it is connected since many people suffer thus. Little and often works.

[SeanJax]

just to remind people above 65 to pay attention to their bones . Don’t wait until you get compression fractures. It is tough to treat it and the prevention is critical here . The body works as a whole not just the heart. Just spend a little time to read about osteoporosis and osteopenia.

[pusillanimous in reply to SeanJax]

I was fortunate, mine responded well to bisphosphonates ,and I take a weekly Vit D complex tab (Calciferal) .I have no discomfort or pain. It was the first fracture I have ever had in my life.(I'm 80 now - it happened 5 years ago) I go every two years for a Dexa scan. But you are so right, we need to be more aware of our bones , especially if we fit the classic profile of small framed Northern European female.

[Miriam123]

I think you are correct that larger meals can agravate the Vagal nerve, even without your spinal problem. My first visit to A and E with AFib and high heart rate and high blood pressure was after a larger evening meal than I am used to. I am more careful now what I eat in the evening. My AF gives me more problems when I lie down.

[JeanetteH]

I have a hiatus hernia so eat small meals and sit up in bed.Over 50 per cent of adults have a hiatus hernia I read.I also have apical cardiomyopathy so I think the hernia and stomach can put pressure on heart as they all occupya small space.I have told docs I think my AF is vagal but had no response.