My AFIB and getting off drugs story, updated as of 3/7/25:
I had AFIB, severe left atrial regurgitation (mitral valve not opening properly), no comorbidities. Valve problem caused it all; the valve problem was caused by a dental procedure that led to a gum infection, that went to my heart valve. It’s not that uncommon from what I understand.
Everyone is different, but here is my experience for what it's worth. I had mitral valve repair, ablation, and LAAC at 78, two years and 10 months ago. No more AFIB (it can work permanently). I exercise and eat smartly (low in calories, sugar, salt, and caffeine). I got off Eliquis after four months by wearing a heart monitor for 30 days to be sure AFIB was gone. I had to push my cardiologist to put me on the monitor. My last vital stats while sitting were 119/68, heart rate 68. I have also weaned myself off of 12.5mg metoprolol daily and 81mg aspirin daily. I read a recent JAMA article that said low dose aspirin causes brain bleeding over time. Now it is recommended only for stroke and heart attack victims as I understand it. I have also read that metoprolol interferes with sodium and sugar levels. Too low an amount of sugar or salt can cause dizziness as I read it. Vitals and alertness are better than ever. Daily, I do take a magnesium glycinate supplement containing 29% of RDA. Pure Encapsulations is the best brand I have found. I have read that magnesium and moderate exercise help folks to stay out of AFIB. I had a great surgeon at WakeMed in Raleigh, Dr. Boulton, who did all of the heart stuff. That was key of course. He also supports magnesium supplements. Overall, I feel extremely fortunate.
More: After a dizzy event about 20 months ago, where many tests found absolutely no signs of anything abnormal, my cardiologist wanted me to have a loop recorder implanted (standard recommendation I guess). I said no for a host of loop recorder concerns and have been fine as wine ever since. My best research indicated that the probable cause of my dizziness was the metoprolol I took, combined with too low sodium and sugar intake that day as I had cut the lawn and also had done a full exercise regimen. Off metoprolol now as I said and doing fine 20 months later. Hope this helps others. Also, everyone should read "Undoctored”: Why Health Care Has Failed You and How You Can Become Smarter Than Your Doctor."
To repeat, everyone is different, but that's my particular story. I'm not saying that doctors are all wrong or all bad, just that you likely have the time to sort things out better than they can for your particular circumstances. Lastly, be sure to read "The AFIB Cure" if you have not done so already.
Regards,
Sagan