What is my prognosis?

[Charisse]

Hi, Just joined. I have developed Atrial Fibrillation and diagnosed with Heart Failure 8 weeks ago. I have multiple conditions including Lupus, Sticky Blood, Diabetes etc

I am devastated with this diagnoses and seeing the Cardiologist next week. I am frightened of what he may say to me. Am I going to die?

[Kristin1812 Heart Star]

Hi Charisse. Welcome. I just wanted to say I am sure people will be along soon, who have had slightly similar problems to your, and they will want to help.

But I do know what the anxiety feels like when you are just waiting and worrying! Your mind strays around all sorts of ways!

I’m sure it will help to see your Consultant next week, and to have got your questions answered as best they can.

[GracieOS]

Hello, I can't give you a prognosis, in my experience even the medics won't do that straight off, I do have heart failure and rheumatoid arthritis though. A diagnosis of heart failure is very scary, the term itself is enough to make you think you are facing your end. All I can say is that medication and where needed a few life style changes can make a huge difference. Ive had heart failure for two years now, well diagnosed heart failure anyway, in reality I've probably had it much longer. Things have improved significantly for me since diagnosis and I continue to live well. So don't give up hope.

[Charisse in reply to GracieOS]

Thanks for that. It is frightening especially with Atrial Fib as well my Heart Rate has hit 136 and I have difficulty breathing.At present I cannot function the slightest exertion leaves me very breathless.I’m 67 and not ready to die. Shielding and being stuck in the house since March hasn’t helped, unable to see my sons and granddaughter. It’s not long till Thursday and hopefully my Cardiologist will give me some idea of treatments xxxx

[Charisse]

Hi Jo, I am on Warfarin and have been for 11 years as I have sticky blood. I am on Flecainide and Diuretics as. I was admitted to hospital 8 weeks ago unable to breathe. This cardiologist specialises in the ablation sand pacemakers. I’m just so limited at present that’s what worry’s me. I was diagnosed in hospital.

[Qualipop]

The term heart failure is absolutely horrible. It should be banned. Your heart is not going to suddenly fail. They really should change that name. It simply means your heart isn't pumping as well as it should. Someone will explain to you about the ejection fraction ( EF) which shows how much blood your heart is pumping. There are people on here who have lived with "heart failure for years and years and have managed to improve their EF and live a productive life. I hope someone soon explains it for you

[Charisse in reply to Qualipop]

Thank you x

[ellj]

Please don't panic, easy to say I know.

The diagnosis of heart failure just means your heart isn't quite doing what it should.

The most likely change will be that you are put on medications to help it work better.

It is good that it has been detected now so that you can be treated.

Best wishes

Ellie