I was first diagnosed with af in January 2021 and have undergone 2 cardioversions and three ablations. It’s now 5 weeks since I had my third ablation which my EP described as an ‘extensive and prolonged’ procedure.
It’s taken me a lot longer to recover this time. I’ve been exhausted, nauseous and basically unable to function but I’ve been reassured that all my Kardia readings have been either NSR or, if I’ve been sitting for a while, Bradycardia. My heart rate is consistently between 44 and 62.
And then this morning, I suddenly had readings of ‘Possible Atrial Fibrillation’ and multiple triple beats. And I’m aware of a sort of ‘gripping’ sensation in my heart.
I know that I’m only 5 weeks into the blanking period and that these symptoms are cited as perfectly normal but I can’t help feeling deeply disappointed and worried that I may have to go through all this again.
Does anyone have any reassuring words of wisdom for me?
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frankiec5
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Sounds like runs of ectopics - Kardia can’t tell the difference! It has been quoted several times that a well respected EP said that those are the heart trying to go into AF and failing, so chill. Anxiety is very bad for ectopics ❤️🩹
Thank you for the advice and encouragement. I really appreciate it.
I’ll try to be more optimistic but I’m struggling not to be anxious. I found recovery from this last procedure really hard and I’m desperate for it to have been successful.
Kardia only shows the waves of PVCs but doesn't diagnose them, (not even the 6 lead like mine). It does diagnose AFibs & brady and tachycardia but it doesn't do any other abnormal beats. Unclassifieds are due to nearby tech devices or your body movements or even if the device and / or your fingers are too dry.
Even people who do not suffer from AF get the occasional extra or missed beats, that's what your Kardia could be recording.
As for your low heart rate, are you still taking any pills like beta blockers.
After my 3rd ablation, the very next day before I could leave hospital and go home my heart took off racing. I was put back on my medication and kept in, then by the afternoon of the next day my heart rate calmed and I went home. About 4-6 weeks later I flipped back into AF again and went back to the hospital for a cardioversion.
That 3rd ablation on the 6th of July 2016 was still my most successful and I haven't had an abnormally high heart rate since.
Yes I take 5mg Bisoprolol twice a day. I’m hoping my EP will reduce the dosage as I have very little energy and easily get breathless. I also take Ramipril twice a day.
As for my Kardia readings, the odd thing is that if I get up and walk around after a ‘Possible AF’ reading, then I get a ‘Normal Sinus Rhythm’ reading. But it doesn’t last sadly.
I would ask your GP or consultant as soon as you can about reducing your Bisoprolol. That's quite a hefty dose you're taking and your heart rate going down to 44 is getting too low.
I actually saw my EP today and he’s reduced the evening dosage to 2.5mg. If all goes well I can then reduce the morning dose to 2.5mg. I’m hoping that will help with my energy levels 🤞
Hi Frankie, I know you’re probably already trying everything, but you need to keep working on that anxiety. Don’t forget the breathing exercises and all those apps out there to help with relaxation and meditation. You were lucky to have had a relatively easy time with the first ablation. I was still doing very little after 6 weeks. And because my body just kept telling me to keep on resting that’s what I did.
Like everyone else has said, ectopics are normal at this stage, but do call your cardio team if you’re concerned, that’s what they’re there for. An ablation is a bigger procedure than sometimes it’s made out to be. You’re allowed to feel the aftershocks and have a little worry! Take it really slow.
Thank you for the advice. I know I’m my own worst enemy as far as anxiety is concerned. It’s definitely something I need to keep working on. I’ll look into the relaxation apps you mention.
I really like Balance because it doesn’t have music with the meditation and relaxation, the sessions are not too long and there’s a big choice without being confusing. I think you can try it free for a while but I paid a year ago and have used it daily since. The couples mediations on it are lovely too!
Patience and trust the process and do all you can to help your heart recuperate - which means accepting how it is in the moment, listen to your body and if you are fatigued - rest.
Sound advice CDreamer. Thank you for your support. I can’t tell you how much it helps to hear from people who understand and can empathise. Thanks again
One thing that has helped me is to avoid alcohol & caffeine as much as possible and to check all canned and packaged food for MSG because they are very often triggers for PVCs. I've done tests on myself to rule out what the problem foods are and those are the guilty products.
I hope you can chill and allow your heart to heal slowly. It took me six months for mine to calm and twelve to feel normal. At the moment, although I had a breakthrough of Af, I am happy on flrecainide and dilitiazem and mostly in sinus, so my ablation helped a lot. Best wishes x
Thank you Bassets. Although we’re all different, it really does help to hear about other people’s experiences. Interesting that it took you a year to feel normal again. I shall take heart from that.
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