Twists and turns of AF

[50568789]

Ah, the twists and turns of AF! First ablation last June, went well, feeling good, at last symptoms free. Then a bronchoscopy brought it back, not happy, and it was persistent. Fortunately landed a cardioversion a month later, back on the recovery road, feeling good. Messed up meds and succumbed to stress at Christmas, symptoms back again, bit depressed. Happily normal sinus rhythm restored after 3 days and I allowed myself to think I was getting on top of it. Then a week ago, for no obvious reason, woke at 3 am with racing heartbeat and other symptoms all came on board during the day. BP and HR readings ok rate wise, but irregular pulse and very uncomfortable getting upstairs or walking uphill. Arrythmia Nurse advised to ride it out for time being, but it seems pretty persistent already, no sign of abating, and I suspect the ablation I had is now a busted flush and another will be necessary soon (somewhat earlier than hoped for). Is this realistic , or is there still a chance of recovery?

[BobD Volunteer]

Sorry but one really does need to look on ablation as part of ongoing treatment for AF. That said I had three between 2005 and 2008 since which no AF. NB I have had other arhythmias and had pacemaker in 2022 but note no AF.

[CDreamer]

There is always a chance but the older you are and the longer you are in AF the harder it will be to maintain NSR. I was in a similar position in 2018 and was recommended pacemaker - it worked for me and although I still have occasional AF - when I have an infection, very stressed or I have overdone things - it is nothing like it used to be and symptoms much less. Not everyone benefits from pacemaker alone but worth discussing Pacemaker and Ablation of AV node if AF is very symptomatic and persistent.

[Rainfern]

Sorry to hear your AF came back. My understanding is that second touch up ablations are often necessary - one of the reasons I stick around on this forum despite still being in NSR a year on. I think if it was me I’d get back to the arrhythmia nurse and say you don’t want to “ride it out” and could you get an appointment with the EP. If that wasn’t possible I’d make a private appointment. Does this make me a wimp?

[50568789 in reply to Rainfern]

I am due a review with EP as part of standard follow up, but that might not be anytime soon. My mother instilled stoicism in us kids, so guess I'll hang with it a bit longer, but doubt I'll get away without a second ablation now.

[Buzby62 in reply to Rainfern]

Does this make me a wimp?

If it does then that’s me too. I think it just makes you diligent, I would do the same and keep on to them. Too many ride things out waiting for the system to catch up in my opinion.

Best wishes