A-Fib reprieve

[Emoryrich]

Here is an Atrial Fibrillation update from me about my treatment and a current success. My intention to help newcomers and to pass along good news which may also translate to hope for you.

After a surprise episode in early May 2024 that took me to hospital while vacationing in the U.S., my home cardiologist put me on bisoprolol 5 mg daily. He gave it six weeks for my body to adjust, and then ordered a 72-hr Holter monitor test.

My first two weeks on bisoprolol were challenging. It was as if my body was “pushing back” — my fluttery palpitations worsened and I got a tight chest, which was new for me.

And then, like magic, that all stopped — all quiet!

This has continued to be the case, except for one short episode one evening when my HR rose and held at 125, jumping to 138 for a few minutes, and plenty of “squirrel disco” flutters in my chest.

That episode lasted only four hours. Nothing like two previous full-on episodes in July 2023 and May 2024, both requiring cardioversion, after lasting 12-16 hours.

Today I saw my cardiologist for a post-Holter follow-up. The test results confirm what I have been feeling — average heart rates ranging from 55-65 and a handful of insignificant skipped beats.

I have a major trip in November (read "expensive") and am conscious about being 90-days-stable to get cancellation insurance. I am happy that the doc declared me stable this morning.

I am taking this as a win. The medication worked for me, and I didn’t have any of the fatigue or dizziness that occurs for some people.

I am a bit of a gym rat and have not had to change my routine very much. The only exercise adjustment I have made is to switch my cardio exercise to treadmill or stationary bike instead of a rowing machine, for which I now lack stamina. As for weight-training, no change, have even increased some weights.

As background, I have been dealing with AF for one year and there have been times when my symptoms were relentless and bleak, filled with anxiety, despite knowing full well that I was in no danger. (Tell that to the dancing squirrels!)

It is very encouraging for me to enjoy my current reprieve. I wish you the same!

I would be remiss not to thank all the contributors here and, by writing here, return the favour for your generous sharing.

[FitB]

that’s great news!! It was good you were monitored whilst on the beta blockers z I was on the same … 5 mg but unfortunately my symptons increased along with my heart rate. Now in heart failure!! I’m putting it down to NHS failing me due to lack of monitoring. Hoping the Entestto & Dspaglyfozine will kick everything into place. 🤞🏻

[Supergranny123]

Hi this is good to hear as I have had AF for 2 years now with cardiology wanting to do cardioversion but a different cardiologist says it could work but equally could return within weeks so slightly confused at present meds do seem to help and I walk an average 15000 steps a day so reading your good news alleviate the stressful worry of not knowing next steps keep fit and many more AF free days to all

[Cavalierrubie]

Thank you for sharing your good news. I am having a bad patch, so to hear a positive post is very encouraging, AF is a very unpredictable condition and a nuisance, but there are worse things to have, so we try not to let it define who we are. Getting rid of the fear and anxiety is an awful part of it. I never cease talking to myself and reminding myself that’s it’s not life threatening and treatable. I wish you well and carry on winning this beast. Enjoy your trip in November and let us all know what a fabulous time you had. 👏👏👏😎🌞