Post ablation follow-up

[lizzieloo2]

Just got back from my ablation follow-up with the arrhythmia nurse. Had an ECG first and all was well. She is happy about everything and I have had no further hiccups since the beginning of December. I am to stay on the Diltiazem (my choice) as it is working well with the BP and not giving me any problems. With regard to the Flecainide that I used to take as a PIP, she agreed that I could take it if I started to get AF problems that were concerning me but felt that I should contact them first so that they could check that the problems were indeed AF and not some other arrhythmia as Flecainide can exacerbate other arrhythmias. I am now 5 months post ablation and she told me that the risk of the transoesophageal fistula remains until about 6 months but not to worry about it. I will go on the patient-initiated follow-up so that I can go straight to her or the EP if I get new symptoms rather than having to start again with the GP. So all in all, no AF episodes for ages, BP and ECG fine and I feel well apart from still getting tired easily although she didn't feel this was due to the procedure but more related to my lack of stamina as I have had to cut down on my walking as I have Greater Trochanter Pain Syndrome which is giving me problems. Long may it continue and good luck to anyone in a similar position. Take care everyone

[jeanjeannie50]

I'm pleased to hear that your ablation has been successful. Long may you continue in normal sinus rhythm.

I think it's the time of year when we all get tired easily. I intend to start building up my stamina gradually once the weather gets a little warmer, it's not snowing, raining or overly windy.

Jean

[Hidden]

Good afternoon lizzieloo2

Fabulous news that your ablation was successful, it is always good to hear about positive outcomes and experiences on the forum. Thank you for sharing with us all.

Katrina.

[Outsidethelines]

Great to hear that you’re doing well, Lizzie😊

[Buzby62]

Thanks for sharing the good news, that’s encouraging, long may it last for you.

[Lilypocket]

Great news! Long may it continue 🙂

[Sixtychick]

I had my ablation on 19th September. I wasn’t told about that transoesophageal fistula thing you mentioned , lasting for 6 months. I was given Lansoprazole for 6 weeks, to reduce the risk of oesophageal (food-pipe) damage as a result of the ablation. I am still getting missed beats. I’m hoping they’ll stop eventually. I should have had a 3 month follow- up on December 19th, but have had no letter so far. I shall ring if I haven’t heard by the end of the month. Hope AFib stays away for you. 🤞mine will too. Best wishes.

[willec49]

It’s wonderful that your ablation is working. Congrats! As for the flecainide, I had my second ablation on Dec 5. I’ve been on flecainide fir several years which has helped. I was told not to make any changes in meds during the 3- month blanking period so sm still taking 50 mg AM and 100 mg PM. Then, I suspect my doc will try having me go without it to see if the ablation worked enough so that I no longer need the meds. Time will tell. So, I can see why your team wants to know what is going on with your heart before introducing flecainide into the mix. Good luck!