stress/gastro/afib

[DIB69]

An acutely stressful event recently triggered severe indigestion and general gastrointestinal upset. As has occurred on previous occasions this in turn triggered AF. I'm taking the daily 2.5 mg bisoprolol at present that was prescribed by an EP as a pip to titrate in accordance with my symptoms. I'm struggling to get on top of the gastrointestinal issues as my stressful period continues at present and therefore the AFIB. I'm wondering if anyone else is affected this way? Next GP appointment available is 14th November!

[Suanna]

I feel for you because I know what it's like as I experience the same or similar problems. You don't say how the problems affect you during the day, if at all, but mine are usually always at night. Bloated stomach that constantly presses upwards causing palpitations (which often lead to AF), intestinal cramps that are so painful I can't lie flat, and not being able to lie on either side (which would relieve the cramps) because my pulse and breathing rates increase to an uncomfortable level. The only way I can sleep most nights is by lying on my back with legs raised. No physical cause can be found for these symptoms. I have ongoing, low (usually) levels of stress in my life but I am by no means a nervous wreck, which is what some doctors imply. Although the cause is considered to be a disorder of the autonomic nervous system, no doctor I have ever consulted - even cardiologists - has ever acknowledged this or has a clue as to how to treat it. What about you?

[meadfoot]

My EP and gastroenterologist agree my Afib and SVT is triggered by gastric events 90% of the time but seem to have no solution to offer. Just the usual dont eat late in the evening, sleep propped up, take over the counter meds, gaviscon advance in my case. I cant tolerate PPIs so not much help out there. At least they recognise and agree that gastric issues is a big trigger for me.

[Pommerania78]

What is your diet? Thanks.

[DIB69 in reply to Pommerania78]

My diet is varied and at times gives me no problems and then for no fathomable reason other than the stress and anxiety I talk about the gastrointestinal problems start. I don't fast as I don't seem to function well without small regular meals. I try to give myself 3 hours between my last meal and bedtime.

[Pommerania78 in reply to DIB69]

Have you given up gluten? As you probably know, the human body cannot break down gluten in the intestines. I have given it up, and that has helped me tremendously. Thanks.

[Pommerania78]

Do you ever fast? Thanks.

[Model52]

yes, very common. Anti- cholinergic medication , Sertraline or Xanax all help in those situations.

[DIB69 in reply to Model52]

Years ago I was prescribed Mirtazipine 15mg for anxiety but because of it's sedative affects only used it periodically for my insomnia and at a quarter of the prescribed dose. A few weeks ago the GP suggested I take the full dose for the depression he said my symptoms indicated. That had an overall calming effect which included my gut issues. However, as I became used to the medication the affects wore off and the anxiety and other problems resurfaced. I'm now withdrawing from them and do wonder if that could also be contributing to the problem?

[Abbyroza in reply to DIB69]

Probably, I’m afraid.

[secondtry]

Yes.

Actions I have taken:

If you can't escape the source of stress then the only way to reduce its effect is to improve your gastric habits (eg diet, when eat & slower) and try to neutralise the stress with your daily routines (eg walks in Nature, Romcoms rather than horror movies & indulge yourself in that hobby you always wanted to try).

Good luck 🤞🙏.

[secondtry in reply to secondtry]

PS The good news (as quoted by Tescheron here previously) is that if our thoughts can make us sick, our thoughts can also make us whole!!

[DIB69 in reply to secondtry]

Thank you secondtry, this is now the line I'm intending to explore.

[Ppiman]

I can sympathise. I never fully know whether the gastric symptoms are caused by the arrhythmia or the other way around.

The important question, since the AF itself is presumably safe (i.e. you didn't mention any dizziness, fainting etc and assuming any needed anticoagulant is taken), is how much this affects your life? That is, is your heart rate too high to allow for fairly normal activities to continue until the AF stops?

Steve

[Drone01]

I see that Meadfoot can’t tolerate PPIs, but they are very effective in reducing stomach acid production, so I hope you have tried them. I was switched from Omeprazole to Lansoprazole in the past. If you’re not already on one of the PPIs you can buy Omeprazole over the counter until you see the GP.

[DIB69]

Thank you for all your responses to my post about stress, gastro issues and AFIB. I find them all helpful and reassuring which is one of the best aspects of this forum. I conclude that it may be time to consult a nutritionist and maybe above all find ways to deal with the stress, anxiety and worries which seem to be a major trigger that then sparks a sequence of physical problems. It seems we learn to be detectives of our own ongoing condition. Once again many thanks.

[dunestar]

There's definitely a relationship for me between my gastrointestinal issues and Afib. I have to watch what I eat and when. No big meals especially before bed. However my stomach issues are caused by acid reflux and a hiatus hernia rather than stress. I do feel for you if it's difficult to get out of the stressful situation which is causing the issue.