@kick For context, I want to share where my comments are coming from. I’ve spent more than 20 years independently investigating epidemiological data, scientific literature, and peer-reviewed medical research across a wide range of topics. My focus has always been on primary sources—original studies, systematic reviews, and consensus statements—rather than summaries, headlines, or anecdotal reports.

I make a point of cross-checking claims, understanding study design and limitations, and distinguishing between correlation, causation, and hypothesis. When evidence is incomplete or evolving, I try to say so clearly. When strong data exist, I rely on that rather than speculation or opinion.

I’m not here to persuade or argue, but to contribute information that is evidence-based, transparent, and open to correction if better data emerge. Thoughtful discussion grounded in reliable science benefits everyone, and that’s the spirit in which I participate here.

You’re definitely not alone in this — anxiety after a first AFib episode is extremely common, and many people describe exactly what you’re feeling.

A few points that may help:

1. Anxiety after AFib is very real An AFib episode is frightening, and the body often stays in a “hyper-alert” state afterward. That alone can cause palpitations, lightheadedness, headaches, and a sense of internal jitteriness — which can easily be mistaken for medication side effects.

2. Caffeine can worsen anxiety (even if it didn’t before) Many people who tolerated coffee for years suddenly find it increases anxiety after an arrhythmia event. This doesn’t mean you’ll never enjoy it again — some switch to half-caf or decaf for a while and reintroduce slowly once things settle.

3. Eliquis (apixaban) Eliquis itself is not known to cause anxiety, but headaches and lightheadedness are reported, especially early on. For most people, these symptoms improve over a few weeks as the body adjusts.

4. Metoprolol and low blood pressure Your BP of 117/59 is not “too low.”
Low-dose metoprolol is often prescribed specifically to reduce adrenaline effects, heart rate spikes, and anxiety sensations. Many people actually feel calmer on it. Doctors usually start at a very low dose and adjust slowly. If dizziness or fatigue occurs, the dose can be changed or stopped.

5. No recurrence since Nov 25 is reassuring That’s an important detail. One isolated episode does not mean AFib will be frequent or permanent. The anticoagulant is often prescribed for stroke prevention while your risk is being assessed, not because something dangerous is happening right now.

6. What helps people cope:

Limiting caffeine (temporarily):

Gentle activity like walking:

Magnesium if approved by your doctor:

Reassurance and education about AFib:

Time — anxiety often eases as confidence returns:

Bottom line:

What you’re experiencing is very common after a first AFib episode. Anxiety can amplify every sensation. A low-dose beta blocker like metoprolol is frequently used because it helps both the heart and the nervous system, even in people with normal blood pressure.

You’re asking the right questions, and it’s okay to go slowly and reassess. Many people in this situation improve significantly over weeks, not days.

Your body is recovering from a scare.