Wolff Parkinson White Syndrome
I'm a 21 year old female who was diagnosed with WPW syndrome a few months ago following a hospital admission. I've seen a cardiologist and done the tests but he has told me that there isn't anything "significant" enough for him to want to do any further treatment. At this current time I'm unable to complete daily activities, be in full time work, go out with friends, enjoy my hobbies (mostly horse riding), my life is miserable to be quite honest. When I asked him what he expected me to do with all the symptoms I was experiencing he simply said "there's nothing I can do because judging from your tests there's nothing severe happening". I already take Bisoprolol (which is not something I want to take for the rest of my life especially with only being 21) I avoid caffeine, I don't drink alcohol anymore, I get 10-12 hours of sleep a day (I'm always fatigued) I live a relatively healthy life style.
Should I be seeking another opinion or do I just accept the fact I won't be able to live a normal life anymore?
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YEEESSSSS!!!!! And do it right away. The way you describe your existence, it must be draining, a real grind. This person doesn't sound interested or empathetic. A waste of skin. In case it matters, this apparent indifference to their patients' suffering is also common among sleep specialists. I honestly think it is because the two subjects only get beaten into submission by true geniuses and giants in their respective fields. The very best, who are also the very busiest, know what to do, and they get it done for you. Might be a wait of a couple of months or more, but you'll know immediately that they listen and care.
I know a local retailer, female, who was diagnosed with WPW in her teens, and was desperate. She had an ablation and is now a mom, working retail, and seems to be doing very nicely.
Do some research and then settle on at most two, but not less than two, really top notch electrophysiologists within a full day's drive, and stay in hotels if you must. It will be worth it. You have years and years to live, and it should be much better than as you are.
I agree with gloaming. Your doc is very unsympathetic of your condition. If you are ELIMINATING ALL CAFFEINE, including coffee, chocolate and colas and mountain dew and still having problems, I would get an ablation which I have never had, but reportedly can help you. I googled the Bisoprolol that you are taking. It listed some scary side effects including cardiac arrest or stroke. Were you tired all the time before taking this med?? Do you consume lots of sugary carbs or processed foods which could make your blood sugar go up and down and make you tired?? Just my 2 cents.
My grandson was diagnosed with WPW syndrome. He was 12. He had an ablation (same day procedure) which fixed the problem. Now he plays football.
Get a second opinion from an electrocardiologist.
Ask for a different beta blocker. Bisoprolol in the literature has one the highest number of side effect complaints. Metoprolol is a well tolerated alternative and there are many more to try.
There is also diltiazem. And a whole bunch of others:
https://www.medicinenet.com/beta-blockers_vs_calcium_channel_blockers/drug-vs.htm
kezza825 said: '...I get 10-12 hours of sleep a day (I'm always fatigued) I live a relatively healthy life style...'
Have you ever had your sleep assessed? It isn't unheard of for younger, fit, people to have sleep apnea. It's a possibility that maybe you should check out.