Atrial fibrillation and RA

[Gillyd62]

I have been diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation this week after being diagnosed with RA back in July.

anyone else have experience of this. I am now on beta blockers as well as methotrexate for RA.

My first appointment with cardiology isn’t until January 2023. I am worried about the wait.

Not sure what tests I will need but thinking about paying to see cardiologist privately or should I discuss with my rheumatologist ?

Thanks for reading .

[MadBunny]

I was diagnosed with what the GP called 'borderline' AFib back in 2019 after she picked up on my irregular pulse. I was put on a beta blocker and anti coagulant as a precaution (history of heart problems in the family) but it was felt that no further action or referral was necessary.I did mention it to my rheumatologist as I felt he needed to know as part of my general health.Im also on MTX and a biologic

There re are Afib forums on Health Unlocked - have you thought about joining as there will be people on there who may be able to help.

It is scary- I burst into tears when the GP told me!

[Gillyd62 in reply to MadBunny]

thank you that’s helpful. The nurse practitioner I saw in A&E did say it was not anything urgent but it’s still very worrying!! Yes I will join the AF forums 👍

[MadBunny in reply to Gillyd62]

Of course you feel worried- its only natural. It's a lot to take in,on top of your RA diagnosis ( sorry I don't mean to sound patronising- the joys of text🙄)

Sending you warm wishes

[Madmusiclover]

yes. Mostly tachycardia but some AF. Had a few tests and now awaiting next round but they will be after my new hip has gone in…🙄. Good luck. I’ve had a heart scan and monitoring with a Kardia machine so far. I first noticed it in 2019. I think if they were really worried about you they would be seeing you sooner. Rheumy originally told me to ‘keep my eye on it’! Is whoever put you on beta blockers aware you have RA?

[Gillyd62 in reply to Madmusiclover]

yes the A&E were aware of RA. GP wants to see me so I suppose I can ask her about tests she could order while I’m waiting for my cardiac referral.

[Pythagorus]

Hi Gilly, I am on Methotrexate and Benepali and developed Atrial Fibrillation about six months ago. I have had a pacemaker for the last three years and after the AF episode which lasted7 hours in the night I contacted the pacemaker department at hospital who confirmed the AF from the tracing from my pacemaker which sends readings from my iphone. The hospital contacted my GP who prescribed a beta blockers and an anticoagulant . The anticoagulant stays in the system 24 hours so there is none of the bother of having frequent blood tests to check clotting times. I have felt fine being on the medication and no further episodes of AF.I am sure that if your AF was thought to be urgent you would be seen sooner but I do understand that of course you will worry having to wait a few months. For your peace of mind it might be that you will go down the private route . Whatever you decide good luck and my best wishes

[Scottishlad]

I have just been put on a beta blocker while issues with breathlessness are being investigated. Also prescribed aspirin and a statin. Had to stop the statin after 4 days as it totally disrupted my digestive system.

For me next step is an echocardiogram to check valve function.

Mild AF is not that uncommon. Try to be reassured that if A&E thought it was serious, things would be happening quicker.

[Juleskb]

I have seronegative RA and was diagnosed with AF in 2016. I was immediately referred to the local anticoagulant clinic and prescribed Rivaroxaban. Unfortunately, prescribed Bisoprolol was ineffective and I underwent a cryoablation in 2018. The procedure proved to be successful, but in 2020 the AF returned and in 2021 I was put on the “urgent” waiting list for a redo ablation. In March 2022 I underwent a cardiac radiofrequency 3d ablation under general anaesthetic and I’m delighted to say that I’ve been AF free since then. I’ve been told that I must remain on Rivaroxaban for life as a stroke preventative. heartrhythmalliance.org/afa... is a very useful website that should answer any questions you may have. Good luck with everything!

[Gillyd62 in reply to Juleskb]

thank you for sharing your AF story. Glad things are under control now. I will have a look at the website you suggested 👍

[Juleskb]

Hope you find the site helpful. There’s also an AF group in Healthunlocked.com (similar to the RA one) where you’ll find good advice. I hope everything works out ok for you.

[Gillyflower70]

Hello there! Sorry to be late just picked up. I have indeed used methotrexate for over twenty years and it kept the lid on the RA. However eventually my body decided it didn’t like it and I had to come off it. It was very successful for a long time but it is a strange drug and it is very important you keep up regular monitoring. I have not had heart problems and can’t give any info about that. It looks as if others are being very informative. I really would suggest going back to the Nurse practitioner at the hospital to ask for advice if things are not clear. Do you have a helpline at your hospital? Don’t feel reluctant to ask!! If you have an advisory nurse team they will refer you on if necessary.

Really hope you are feeling better soon.