Triggers

[Hartingdon]

I have felt 'normal' for a few months now, but this morning I used some Listerine mouth wash and have felt a bit wobbly/shaky since. Not quite in AF or fluttery but on the cusp. I know there are many suspected triggers, just wondered if anyone else has experienced this one?

[Juliemoran]

Hello, I also suffer with AF and had exactly the same problem after using a mouth wash. I have now stopped using them as wonder if a certain ingredient in them is a trigger.

[Hartingdon in reply to Juliemoran]

I had a quick look at the ingredients when I emptied the remaining liquid down the drain, and alcohol is one, which is off the menu for me. Several chemicals listed also. Probably a good drain cleaner though!

[devonian186]

Taken from various studies of the impact.

"Using Listerine mouthwash does not appear to have a direct impact on high blood pressure. However, some studies suggest that mouthwash containing chlorhexidine may be associated with a "significant" increase in systolic blood pressure. Individuals with high blood pressure or other heart conditions should be cautious when using mouthwash, as it might worsen their condition"

Do you use it regularly or was it a one off?

Worth checking with your pharmacist as even the most ordinary of over the counter products cam impact on heart patients. Just looked at my own toothpaste. An awful lot of rubbish but not Chlorhexidine.

[Hartingdon in reply to devonian186]

Thanks for your informed reply. That was the first time I've used it since my HF episode/diagnosis ( July '23 ).

[Goonerboy6661]

My dentist at my last checkup said mouthwash can affect the production of nitric oxide, so for people with heart disease it’s best not to use mouthwash. Lower nitric oxide levels can negatively affect blood vessel function and overall cardiovascular health. Studies have also shown that regular use of antibacterial mouthwash may raise blood pressure slightly. I now just clean my teeth twice a day along with flossing.

[devonian186]

There is a lot of fuss at present about Ultra processed foods. Might be useful for someone to examine other manufactured products we swallow or put on our skin from cold remedies to toothpaste.

Presumably anyone susceptible to heart and other problems might be triggered by them (as you might have been) but other relatively healthy people might be affected if they used them regularly.

[Taviterry]

My dental hygienist noted slight staining on my teeth and, aware of my medical history, asked if I was using a mouthwash and advised against it.