Do I need a cardioversion?

[Ruby40]

Hi everyone, I was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation last month in hospital, and sent home with lots of tablets. I now have a follow up appointment for a cardioversion. But my heart rhythm has returned to normal with the bisoprol medication. So I don't think I need the cardioversion. What should I do? I haven't seen any cardiologist yet. But they have booked me into hospital as a day case.

[jeanjeannie50]

Hi Ruby, ring the hospital on Monday and ask to speak to an AF nurse. I know if it was mine she'd tell me to go along for an ECG, to check that I really was in normal sinus rhythm.

Jean

[Ruby40 in reply to jeanjeannie50]

Hi, I've already been to my GP and A and E and had ECG s which showed I was in normal rhythm. But I don't know if they pass it on to the cardiology department.

[jeanjeannie50 in reply to Ruby40]

Had you actually been given a confirmation date letter for your cardioversion?

[Ruby40 in reply to jeanjeannie50]

Yes. Early November.

[beardy_chris]

They won't do a cardioversion if you are in Sinus Rhythm. It is not uncommon for people to turn up for a cardioversion and, after an ECG, be sent home because they don't need one. When I had a cardioversion, out of 6 people scheduled for a cardioversion, 2 were sent home because they weren't in AF.

[Ruby40 in reply to beardy_chris]

Thanks Chris.

[Fullofheart]

Agree with Jean. Give them a ring/ email.

[Ruby40 in reply to Fullofheart]

I don't have anyone to ring or email as I haven't been seen yet since I was in hospital three weeks ago.

[Fullofheart in reply to Ruby40]

I would suggest talking to your GP then who can refer you for ECG.Alternatively wait until the cardiac team contact you which they would do as a preassessment. I had an appointment (telephone consult) a few weeks before the cardioversion date. And as beardychris says they always do an ecg on the day.

You also say you have a follow up appointment. Presumably that is discuss cardioversion?