Arrhythmia

[Gillanne1]

I have arrhythmia and an enlarged heart chamber. I've found this pandemic time so isolating and am terrified my condition is gradually worsening. I just do t feel myself and speaking to the GP via the telephone has not helped

[Hidden]

Hi Gill. Sorry to hear this. Can you tell us a bit more? Like your symptoms, your medication and your age. Do you have atrial fibrillation and an enlarged left atrium? Which symptom in particular do you feel is worsening?

[Gillanne1 in reply to Hidden]

Hi yes I have arterial fibrillation and an enlarged left atrium. I'm on amniodarone, rampiril, bisoprolol and rivaroxaban. I have a water tablet, which I don't take unless needed and it's been about a year since I've needed to. I recently had an cardiogram and ultra sound but no consultation due to covid. Out of the blue I was called to see a hospital consultant who discussed whether I should have ablation. I'm afraid I wasn't prepared for this and what I was told has left me quite shaken. My condition has slightly deteriorated and ablation could or could not help. I just wish I could just sit and talk to someone to help me understand my condition more and what to expect concerning my life expectancy. The decision concerning ablation has been left to me to decide, which is quite daunting.

[Gillanne1 in reply to Gillanne1]

Sorry I'm 66

[Hidden in reply to Gillanne1]

Well you haven’t said anything to suggest you won’t live a long and healthy life if your atrial fibrillation is well managed.

The Atrial Fibrillation Association have a huge forum on HealthUnlocked with many members in their eighties, whose relatives with AF lived past 100. Strongly suggest you sign up and ask as many questions as you want. Do tell them how old you are.

You need to get well informed on Amiodarone. A private appointment with an experienced Electrophysiologist (EP) is a good investment if your symptoms are such that an ablation is thought a better option than long term potentially toxic medication. Good luck.

[Gillanne1 in reply to Hidden]

Many thanks for your advice

[Loveheart123 in reply to Hidden]

Where can one find the group for AFA

[Hidden in reply to Loveheart123]

Click my hub top left. Click view my communities. At the bottom, Click + Find a community

[Kswinster]

Hi Gill. I’m 35 and have dilated cardiomyopathy Which is degenerative. My dad had a heart transplant for the same condition and several of my relatives have passed away young from it. I also care full time for my daughter with a rare life limiting brain condition. I’m saying this because although our circumstances are different I completely understand your feelings of isolation and worry if the unknown future of your health. Sometimes I find it very scary, others I am completely fine.

How are you otherwise?, what do you like doing? I started journaling which has helped a lot. And connecting with people. Even if it’s online, via message etc. If you want to chat (just normal stuff) I’m here xx

[Gillanne1 in reply to Kswinster]

Hi I'm fine otherwise, thanks for getting in touch, you sound like you are coping with a lot. I've had a better day today but still want some answers.

[Hidden]

Hi Gillanne1,

You could try the bhf helpline to get information about your condition. They are knowledgeable and friendly.

Here is a link to their support page:

bhf.org.uk/informationsuppo...

Cardiomyopathy.org also run AF support groups here: cardiomyopathy.org/shared-e...

It might help to speak to people with similar situations.

[Gillanne1 in reply to Hidden]

Thanks