how to cope when atrial flutter strikes in public!!

[chrissy99]

Hi everyone, I had an AFL episode 3 weeks ago which lasted 14 hours heart rate was 140 throughout then it stopped spontaneously so didn't need cardioverting this time. Since then I have been getting a fluttering sensation almost constantly which has left me feeling unwell most of the time, I'm terrified to leave the house in case the AFL happens while I'm out I really don't know what I would do, as the only thing I have found to help is raising my legs above my head... I can't do that in Tescos!.. my heart rate has got up to 260 previously. I'm waiting to see EP about ablation, but was wondering how other people cope if one of these episodes happens when not at home....I'm also concerned about driving, going on holiday etc... I'm becoming a hermit and I hate it, I'm so scared...please help!

[Sunnie2day]

My most pressing problem just now is stable angina so I'm not sure I'm going to be terribly helpful but I'll give it go...

I have become less interesting in going out alone owing to the way I feel when an angina attack hits - I've given up driving for the time being, and when I do need to go out alone on foot I make sure I take routes with frequent bench placements to find a quick seat while waiting for the pain to pass and the NitroLingual to stop making me feel as though I'm about to be sick...in short I don't go out often on my own. I am fortunate enough to live in a small narrow lane with super understanding neighbours so I do my exercise walking only in the lane - if I keel over I know someone will find me quickly!

My husband has been wonderful about ferrying me all over when I'm feeling confident enough to try getting out of the house. We make sure to choose close-by bays in car parks or he drops me at the door and then picks me up when it's time to go home or elsewhere. When in shops I've learned to make sure there is a wall to lean on, or a trolley to use as a sort of zimmer frame.

As for holidays, we're putting that thought on hold until I see the cardiologist on the 18th of June. I had an echocardiogram and a few other tests, and he is going to discuss the results and give me a 'going forward' plan then - hoping part of the plan includes guidance on holidays. I know hill walking holidays are over until I've got this sorted, but I'm hoping to hear I'm ok to fly long haul (my grown children and the grands live in the USA) or at least a hop over to the Continent.

I hope this helps even a little.