Shift from paroxysmal AFib to permanent! How can I tell if this has happened?

[DizzyD]

Hi all, I have been in AFib since 4pm on Saturday. Back then it started with my usual, very symptomatic AFib, tachycardia etc which lasted for about 5 hours....took 2.5 bisoprolol as pill in pocket when it first started. Since then, I have been in constant afib which is not as symptomatic. However, HR does go pretty high when I move around.

Please note, I was prescribed bisoprolol 2.5 to use as pill in pocket a few weeks ago after being admitted to ACCU with very symptomatic AFib.

Could this be permanent afib?

[BobD Volunteer]

NO. There are three stages of AF. Paroxysmal which comes and goes. Persistent which last longer than seven days and or needs intervention to return NSR and Permanent which is an agreement between patient and doctor that no further intervention is to be given and AF accepted rpvided rate is well controlled.

Bisoprolol is a beta blocker to control rate when you are in AF , it is not an anti-arrhythmic drug like flecainide which attempts to keep a person in NSR. You need to discuss with your consultant or if you have not seen a cardioligist or specialist electrophysiologist, get you GP to refer you.

[DizzyD in reply to BobD]

Thank you Bob.

[Buzby62]

Link to the AF Fact File

api.heartrhythmalliance.org...

This explains different types and treatments.

Hope this helps, best wishes