Newly diagnosed with Paroxysmal A. Fib

[Evaluna]

I have had ventricular ectopics for many years (i am now 75) and in more recent years have added SVTs. They have become much worse over last 2 years and Bisoprolol makes no difference. I had a 14 day monitor and PAF was picked up generally lasting only a few minutes. The cardiologist suggested switching to verapamil but that gave me unacceptable side effects and didn't stop the AF or the SVTs and ectopics. He also said "it was uncertain whether I had passed the threshold for a blood thinner". At the time I thought I might feel more confident if I was taking them but having read the side effects not so sure I want to! I am aware of virtually every arrhythmia (and envy those who don't feel them). Last night SVTs and ectopics were so persistent I didn't sleep at all... did get a lot of reading done tho. I have cut out everything one is supposed to but to no avail. I hope to get another appointment soon but would like to hear others experience with similar profile.

[wilsond]

Firstly I'm concerned that your cardiologist is dithering about anticoagulation! Please discuss this with him/her or your GP.

The biggest side effect of NOT taking anticoagulation is having a stroke, having AF raises our risk 5 fold. The length of time in AF and other arrythmia doesn't matter.

I also wonder if a rythym control drug such as Flecanide hasn't been suggested,as Betablockers only work on the heart rate .

If you can get referred to an EP ( Electrophysiologist) or pay to see one privately for initial consultation Id advise you to. They're cardiologists with specialism in arrythmia.

Hope you get a treatment plan soon xx

[Evaluna in reply to wilsond]

Thanks for your feedback- cardiologist did mention flecanide if verapamil no good but there do seem to be conflicting thoughts, Not only are my afib episodes short but i have had only 6 in the last 7 months . They are always set off by SVTs so i think hes concentrated on trying to stop them.

[TracyAdmin Partner]

Welcome to the Forum, I am sure many of the members will offer advice and support based upon their own experiences.

Please visit the AF Association for informative resources and videos; heartrhythmalliance.org/afa...

Alternatively, if you prefer to contact one of our Patient Services Team, please contact us direct via telephone or email: heartrhythmalliance.org/afa...

Kind regards

TracyAdmin

[agnostic1]

Hi, I also am concerned regarding the blood-thinners- it would seem you ought to be on them?