Problems after cardioversion

[Jonhel]

I had a successful cardioversion three days ago and I am still in sinus rhythm with a heart rate of 48.

A year ago, I had breathing problems which were resolved quickly with digoxin. However, yesterday the breathing problems returned with my a tight chest, a choking sensation when walking and wheezing/crackles when lying down. I don’t know whether this is a result of the cardioversion or the hospital stopping my digoxin.

I also don’t know whether I should ring 111 or wait until Tuesday (after the bank holiday) when I can speak to staff on the cardio ward at hospital or contact my GP.

Any advice would be welcome, especially if you have had a similar experience x

[Jalia]

As .your cardioversion is so recent you should be able to speak to the cardiology department at the hospital that carried out the procedure. They are open 24/7! Do it today

[Jonhel in reply to Jalia]

I’ve phoned the cardiology department but a recorded message says that their opening hours are Monday to Friday (probably Tuesday with it being a bank holiday tomorrow). The message just says to ring 111 in an emergency.

[BobD Volunteer]

Any shortness of breath or chest discomfort needs to be investigated. Contact the team at your hospital.

[Jonhel in reply to BobD]

I’ve phoned them but the department is closed according to the recorded message. I’ve left a message on the answer service but I don’t think it will be listened to until after the Bank Holiday x

[BobD Volunteer in reply to Jonhel]

if it get any worse ring 111.

[Jonhel in reply to BobD]

Will do x

[jeanjeannie50]

Dial the NHS 111 no. or go to your local A&E now. I would want this investigated.

Jean

[Jonhel in reply to jeanjeannie50]

Thank you, Jean. I know that if I ring 111, they will say go to A&E. My experience of A&E (especially on a bank holiday weekend) is not great .

I feel a bit better now I’m up and about but I will definitely ring 111 if I get any worse x

[jeanjeannie50 in reply to Jonhel]

Just go straight to A&E if it starts being bothersome again. The NHS number will say they'll call you back, that will take 1-2hrs and then they may say we'll get a doctor to call you ASAP another hour wait. I experienced this last Thursday with my sister who was having pain in the left hand corner of her chest and felt very ill. Don't tell me I should have dialled 999, I know I should have and I certainly will if it occurs again. I'm going to write about it as a post on here when I feel sane.

Jean

[Jonhel in reply to jeanjeannie50]

Will do. Everyone seems to have problems with 111 x

[Jalia in reply to jeanjeannie50]

Hope your sister is OK Jean

J x

[Jalia in reply to Jonhel]

If you have heart problems and particularly do stress tight chest and breathing problems , you should be seen promptly at A&E. Don't 'play it down!'