Living with Atrial Fibrillation: What are Your Experiences?
I’m 74 and have just been diagnosed with chronic atrial fibrillation. My pulse rate usually stays between 75-100 and I’m taking 5mg of Eliquis twice daily. My cardiologist says there are no good meds for this type of Afib. I’m wondering if I should consider cardioversion, ablation, or just live with it and stay on the blood thinner? Anyone have experience living with AFib long term?? Thanks!
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@yeb
I high recommend reading the book "AFib Cure" written by two expert Cardiac Electrophysiologists, Dr. John Day and Dr. Jared Bunch. The book is available on Amazon, and it includes a thorough explanation of AFib, meds, treatments, and lifestyle changes. Dr. Day's website has a list of resources, newsletter, blog, etc. on his website at drjohnday.com.
Lifestyle changes can make a huge difference in heart health. I have embraced these changes and I have not had an AFib episode in over a year, however, I only have an occasional AFib episodes.
You may also consider a second opinion for your AFib treatment with a Cardiac Electrophysiologist.
Thanks so much! I am reading the Afib Cure. Unfortunately, I am in Afib 100% of the time so I am also seeing an electrophysiologist. Apparently Afib increases the likelihood of dementia—so I will probably have an ablation.
I see. I have an appointment tomorrow to see if I am a candidate for the new walkman. I, too have had Afib for a while. Thank you for sharing.
The walkman does not cure Afib. It only prevents clots from moving out of the heart and to other places like and the lungs and brain where it will cause major problems. Meantime Afib is still wearing out your heart and contributing to dementia.
I hope that this is not true. I will find out tomorrow.
Thanks for the clarification. I’m going to schedule an ablation and hope for the best.
Small note: believe it is a Watchman device. I have been told it is can ultimately (not immediately) mean no more blood thinners, but does not affect afib itself, only the clots. It is for non-valvular afib. https://www.watchman.com/en-us/home.html
https://www.healthline.com/health/atrial-fibrillation/watchman-procedure-for-afib#overview
What is the Watchman procedure for atrial fibrillation?
One goal of AFib treatment is reducing the risk of serious blood clots that can lead to stroke or other health complications.The Watchman procedure is another approach to reducing the risk of stroke in people with AFib. It uses a catheter to place a small, parachute-shaped device that blocks off the left atrial appendage (LAA)Trusted Source.
The LAA is a small pouch located in the upper left chamber of your heart. It’s estimated to be the source of over 90%Trusted Source of blood clots that lead to stroke in people with AFib. As such, blocking the LAA can greatly lower your risk of stroke.
Does the Watchman procedure cure atrial fibrillation?
The Watchman procedure does not cure AFib. It’s used to help reduce the risk of stroke due to AFib.
I'm 87, have had afib many yrs. Had to get a pacemaker to keep my pulse rate at 60 or above. Am now on my second pacemaker. Only the last few yrs my afib is now permanent & persistant. Also have pulsating tenitus which gets very irratiting & loud when afib having is a fit. Am on pradaxa blood thinner, blood pressure med, colrestal, & water pills. I get easily tired so have to really pace myself. Arthritus isnt helping either. Any comments?
Run, don’t walk. Get an ablation.