I have relatively mild Afib (ejection fraction is about 40%) and had an ablation last May and although for some reason my BP has fallen, the Afib continues. I’ve always tried to keep fit through running and walking but post Afib I keep to treadmill or outdoor walking and weights trying to keep my HR within 70 - 80% of max HR. I know that exercise is strongly recommended but can exercise with Afib actually improve the EF or is it a case of trying to maintain what level you have? Any advice or experience regarding Afib and exercise would be most welcome. I recognise that compared with many, I am very fortunate to be able to even continue with exercise let alone consider any improvements.
Many thanks
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Nakesero
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Low EF is not only caused by AF, it can be a lot more complicated. Low EF and low BP will limit the amount and the intensity of the exercise you are able to do, not sure that doing more will help? Something to talk to your doctors and maybe an exercise rehab specialist?
My EF fell when I had a persistent arrhythmia (atrial flutter), but then eventually increased to the low end of normal after my ablation. The specialist found that I also had something called left bundle branch block (LBBB) and I was given losartan to prevent this getting worse, a blood pressure tablet, even though my BP was normal. Apparently this drug offers useful cardio-protective effects in the long term. I was thinking that you might ask about this as 40% EF is on the low side and could cause you to have symptoms.
Hi, has any told you what is causing low EF it would put you at risk for any surgery. My EF was same but caused by very leaky mitral valve which needed repairing. Now nearly 2yrs since heart op my EF is backup to 60%. exercise is good for loads of reasons, but I've been advised by medics that vigorous exercise is bad for AF, running might be too much, so regular but not vigorous seems to be best.
That's really helpful, thanks for taking the time. I must admit to feeling very much in limbo at the moment, I had my ablation in May, reverted to Afib in July but have had no review or assessment since then, the only scheduled appointment is by phone late December, 7 months after the procedure. As a result I have no idea what my EF is now (I was originally told it was low due to Left Atrium damage caused by Afib and if the Afib was resolved then the EF would improve) I want to keep up exercise but don't want to do too much and cause unnecessary strain. Anyway, your reply is much appreciated
Hi, how do you know you are back in Afib. I usually see my GP who can tell but if in doubt he arranges ECG to confirm, then my medication may change, and I'd go back on beta blockers. GP would get in touch with consultants if necessary.
I can tell from my pulse, my Omron BP device and the Kardia. The easiest is at night when I can hear heartbeats as my ear hits the pillow. As you know, GP’s are very hard to see and if you do get an appointment there is no guarantee that I’ll be in Afib at that particular time.
Thanks again though for your help, it is worth a try going through the GP route to see if it might generate a referral.
I think the advice and reasoning was sound. The AF can cause inefficiency all round and even some mild valve leakage I gather and this can reduce the EF.
You’ll be fine. It’s a shame the AF has returned but it is at least less troublesome. I think we all like to see a specialist - well I do - for reassurance and to reduce my anxieties, but I suspect there’s little they can do once the general health of the heart has been assessed.
Check the above link on ejection fraction. Other info available on the 'net. Note other factors to improve EF.
my BP has fallen, the Afib continues
Are you taking medication for your Afib which may cause the reduced blood pressure ? What is your blood pressure ?
Would recommend discussing with your doctor your exercise regiment and closely self-monitor your Afib including heart rate with a personal or medical device.
Many thanks for your advice and information, the EF link was interesting and I do need to discuss exercise again with the Cardiologist team - when I finally get to see them.Your reply was very helpful.
I consulted privately, an electrophysiologist in January 2023 as my AF which had been infrequent, became persistent. I asked about exercise and the EP said categorically, NO EXERCISE. I guess though that it all depends on whether or not you have control over your heart rate. In AF mine was typically between 70 - 133 bpm. I was put on bisoprolol and although I have been in permanent AF since mid November 2022, my heart rate varies from 65 to 100 but typically in the 70's. It only rises to 100 and above on exertion.
I'm sticking to that advice as it makes perfect sense.
Hi Rosie,Many thanks for taking the time to reply. Although I had an ablation in May have no assessment or appointment until December- and that's by phone so it's not a lot of help but I will ask for their views on exercise.
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