Very worried.

[Warmsworth]

Just found out I have a severe AFib. This came as a total shock but it explains a lot of symptoms that I put down to depression and anxiety. I’ve been prescribed beta blockers and I am now waiting for an appointment with the cardiologist consultant. I’m only 44 so this has hit me like a train. Cardioversion has been mentioned as a possible treatment but this also worries me as it’s basically the same as being defibed . Has anybody had this treatment, what are the pros and cons. Should I be worried about my long term heart health, is it something that can be treated and corrected. Thanks in advance for any replies or responses to this. Regards, A very worried man..

[dickie007]

Hi there, try not to worry too much, there are people walking around with Afib who don't know they have it! Have had 2 cardioversions, and am on Bisoprolol, am managing mine ok more of an inconvenience than anything, am seeing cardiologist again in a few months time. Have found this site brilliant for sharing experiences and talking it over with friends & family, good to know you are not alone. Am still doing exercise and climbed a Welsh mountain a few weeks ago, don't let it get you down, my doctors are brilliant, QE Birmingham are the greatest. Let us know how you get on, you are not alone, good luck!

[not2worry]

My hubby also didn’t know he had AF until a EKG. No symptoms at all but so glad we discovered because it is the leading cause of strokes.

Our doc said if you have persistent AF like my husband it is like your heart is running a marathon 24/7.

His first protocol of treatment was going on a blood thinner immediate with meds to control the AF. Next was having CardioVersion which was an amazingly fast and easy procedure. The first on only lasted a week. The second on lasted long enough to regain his strength (persistent AF will tire you out) and had a Pace Maker installed. He was reluctant to have the PM but the day after the procedure he got of of bed and exclaimed “I feel great”.

That was last September and the PM is now his best mate.

Be thankful you discovered you AF - there is so much advancement in the medical field to help us hearties is amazing.

Good health to you!

Yours from Across the Pond