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New to Afib, blood thinners and beta blocker

Heart Rhythm Conditions | Last Active: Aug 13, 2023 | Replies (66)

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@mrsbirns25

Thank you for this and I agree. I was so angry with myself for I was totally caught off guard with this doctor--first time I saw him and before he ever knew anything in-depth about my overall health condition, he prescribed Eliquis and Metropolol. He scared me so badly I found myself just getting the prescriptions and taking them! And I have been an advocate for preventive medicine and healthful living and have been loyal to my plan for over 40 years! I only went to this md because I wanted script for my mammogram and bone density test. (BTW) after my bone density test he said "looking good" you might want to take calcium in the future. I am 73 years old. Did he really think I am that stupid? I do have a functional md I work with and just want to find a way to wean myself off these two meds I have been taking for about 30 days--because I have been afraid to stop. I am familiar with Dr. Weil. My husband passed away last year after many years of everything imaginable (stroke, cancer, congestive heart failure, kidney dialysis) and saw how badly the AMA handles things so I was determined not to fall into this trap--but I did! I don't want to stay there long.

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Replies to "Thank you for this and I agree. I was so angry with myself for I was..."

Your functional MD may have a recommendation for you as far as a cardiologist who is more attuned to your needs. I think there are several things in play when it comes to "pills first" medicine, especially in the high risk specialties.

First, crazy time constraints - imposed by demands of their practice, and the number of people needing to be seen after almost 2 years of Covid-caused pent up demand, plus long-Covid caused additional demand.

Second, in my experience, most people want a "magic bullet" or "instant solution" - they do not want to make major changes to lifestyle, diet, exercise, etc because it is a lot of work. Or they may tell the doctor they will, but not really do it.

Third, and I don't want to start a discussion about this, but health insurance companies and malpractice companies have protocols in place and if the doctors don't follow them and there is a bad outcome, there livelihood can be in jeopardy. Sometimes, but not always, these protocols are "best practices" for the patient's outcome, other times, they are "best outcomes" in terms of people complying so if there is a problem, the doctor & insurer feel like they have done their best.

Have you asked your trusted doc for help in finding someone?
Sue