Diagnosed last week with AFIB

Posted by starlight3 @starlight3, May 10 9:19pm

I was sent recently for an ECG, and it was confirmed I have AFIB. I don’t know how long I have had it. I can’t get an appointment in cardiology at Mayo and I’m on a wait list. I was offered an appointment mid July but I’m leaving for the U.K. mid June for five months. I’m worried that I’m not having any treatment and know the risks as my wife has it and is on medication. What should I do?

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Heart Rhythm Conditions Support Group.

starlight3 | @starlight3 | May 12 1:12pm

In reply to @starlight3 "I was wondering about aspirin. I have read that it is not a good idea. Did..." + (show)

No I have not taken it. There is too much adverse publicity about it.

March | @march | May 12 1:56pm

Don't fool around with this. While Mayo has fantastic cardio staff, you cannot travel without addressing the issue first. If Mayo does not have a PA who can see you first, find an outside cardiologist.

You need to be on an anticoagulant -- that may only be an aspirin or one of the prescription ( the novel oral anticoagulants [NOACs] that inhibit throbbing, or old fashion Heparin, which requires careful monitoring and diet restrictions.

Also, flying will increase your risk of a thrombosis. Wear appropriate support socks.

Because of the above mentions drugs have risks depending on your current physiological condition, you need to coordinate with a physician. Perhaps your family physician can be your first call.

starlight3 | @starlight3 | May 12 2:59pm

In reply to @march "Don't fool around with this. While Mayo has fantastic cardio staff, you cannot travel without addressing..." + (show)

Thank you for your comments. I will be travelling by ship. I am going to make every effort to get a referral to a cardiologist on Monday. My primary care physician has suggested taking aspirin in the interim. Thank you👍

starlight3 | @starlight3 | May 13 1:58pm

My primary care doctor has finally come thru with some medication as he has no idea when I will see a cardiologist! He has put me on Eliquis 5mg twice a day for stroke prevention. I am going to try for a referral 😁

windyshores | @windyshores | May 13 5:17pm

In reply to @starlight3 "My primary care doctor has finally come thru with some medication as he has no idea..." + (show)

@starlight at least you are safe 🙂 How is your heart doing?

starlight3 | @starlight3 | May 14 11:18am

In reply to @windyshores "@starlight at least you are safe :) How is your heart doing?" + (show)

I have no symptoms so unless I get an ecg I don’t know but I feel better knowing I have a blood thinner! 😁

starlight3 | @starlight3 | May 14 9:41pm

Good news. I have at last got a cardiology appointment at Mayo on the 28th. Between that and the Eliquis medication I am so relieved. Will keep you posted on the outcome. Thank you to everyone who offered advice and encouragement. Much appreciated.😁

windyshores | @windyshores | May 15 8:00am

@starlight3 that is great news! Did your PCP advocate for you?

When are you leaving? I wonder if the PCP could order a patch monitor so the cardiologist has it more quickly. Just because you are leaving mid-June. The cardiologist will probably want to see the pattern of your afib, how often you have it and for how long.

starlight3 | @starlight3 | May 15 5:12pm

No I got the appointment myself by continuing to call everyday for cancellations. I will ask about a monitor. That is an excellent idea. Thank you so much.😁

windyshores | @windyshores | May 15 6:34pm

In reply to @starlight3 "No I got the appointment myself by continuing to call everyday for cancellations. I will ask..." + (show)

Great strategy calling every day! Keep us posted!

View More View Less

Please sign in or register to post a reply.