Exercise induced AF

[Daisy2908]

I’ve had a great 4 years since my AF diagnosis, able to live pretty normally in terms of my choice of exercise with 3 years AF free following my cardioversion and just a few increasing episodes of paroxysmal AF in the last year. Recently I felt that a triathlon bike/run training session set off my AF. This is the first time this has been specifically exercise triggered as far as I know. I saw my private cardiologist 2 days ago who tried to reassure me exercise was still ok. He did a stress exercise ecg test for me yesterday which unfortunately set my AF off again so I am back to light exercise only and due an angiogram to rule out other issues. I am awaiting an ablation currently which he has advised me to go the nhs route for. I get very anxious about my AF when things change like this so just wondering if anyone else has had intense exercise trigger their AF and if so has an ablation helped? I know that this level of exercise is my choice and that some people would just say don’t do it but as it is important to me I’d just like to be able to consider my options. Thanks in advance.

[BobD Volunteer]

With AF, life style is all important be it obesity or adrenaline junky. Maybe time to dial down your aspirations since over exercise is a known trigger for AF. ? You really don't have to stop, just not push so hard.

[Daisy2908 in reply to BobD]

Thanks Bob, realise that’s an option and that I’m very fortunate. Just interested in whether anyone else has had a similar experience and the outcome so I can consider all options. Thanks again.

[BobD Volunteer in reply to Daisy2908]

At Patient's Day last October we had a talk from a world class triathlete who went through many trails and tribulations to get back to fitness. Not my scene but then I worked on many race and rally cars over the years whilst in AF and pushed through the difficulties so each to their own. You can probably find his presentation on the website or ask admin how to find it.

[Daisy2908 in reply to BobD]

Thanks I’ll take a look.