Managing Dizziness while in AF

[KeepingHealthy]

I am in AF today and feeling really dizzy and tired. Has anybody got any tips on how you cope with these symptoms, apart from resting and watching the day go by?

[Wonky_heart]

I find the dizziness is worse the more I push myself, so managing it is for me, down to managing how much I do. I realised that when I walk, I'm a fast walker. I don't stroll. So having to slow down my walking pace really helped. For me, it was getting a walking stick. I can't fast walk with the stick and it helps with my balance. I've got a stool for the shower as I often get dizzy in the shower. I used to exercise on a treadmill but found I fell off a lot when dizzy (not recommended!). So now I go on my exercise bike as it's harder to fall off and this way I can exercise at home slightly safer. An occupational therapist is visiting next week to give suggestions for other ways to manage and she's arranged for a second stair rail to be fitted so I can grip with both hands if needed. Good luck

[KeepingHealthy in reply to Wonky_heart]

That's good advice, thank you Wonky_heart and best wishes.

[Yellow26]

I’ve had permanent AF for 12 yrs now, I was the same as you at first , my sympathies, I know how you feel. I was told by a cardiologist when it happens just sit up , breath normally, I must admit it was scary sometimes, but after a couple of years and change medication I have improved a lot. Take care and hopefully you will improve.

[KeepingHealthy in reply to Yellow26]

Thank you Yellow26. My AF is paroxysmal, I don't think I could cope with it permanently, it really gets me down when I have an episode and life comes to a halt and I feel absolute rubbish, to put it politely. I took another Beta Blocker at 3.30pm, my HR soon settled but was still feeling dizzy and tired for the remainder of the day. I've had a good nights sleep and feeling well again today.

[Yellow26]

I used to take beta blockers but came off them as my heart rate was too low, maybe you should look how much you are taking, get guidance because it took me about 2 yrs until I was satisfied with my medication

[KeepingHealthy]

I appreciate your thoughts on Beta Blockers because I am now taking 5mg per day since an unsuccessful ablation last year, whereas before I was only on 1.25mg per day! I'll book an appointment with my GP.