Afib and neuropathy

Hi David, I started developing peripheral neuropathy 9 years ago in my feet and lower legs, and also more recently in my hands [but to a much lesser extent]. I increasingly experience Afib, which has come along at the same time as my peripheral neuropathy, and it has now gotten to the point when I cannot exert myself [e.g. household chores, walking up stairs] without it causing me to be weak and uncomfortable. I have other symptoms that have developed over this period, but they may or may not be related to my neuropathy.

Welcome @gavinholley, It can be difficult to manage daily chores around the house when you are dealing with multiple conditions. If you don't mind my asking, which symptoms bother you the most?

But A. Fib is a cardiac conduction problem emanating from the atria while PN is a CNS deficit in an entirely different body system. The two just don’t meet I believe. I searched and found mother to support the premise.

Have you had your b6 blood level checked? Taking supplements for several months with vitamin b6 even in relatively lower dosage such as 10-20mg has been shown to cause sensory or motor PN as well as autonomic symptons such as irregular heartbeat, blood pressure drops, dizziness etc. B6 is a neurotoxin that can affect motor, sensory, or autonomic nerve fibers.

Hi John. I find physical exhaustion the hardest.

Could well be the case, but the PN is a symptom and not the root cause. I think you've made the assumption that the cause of the PN can't cause other systems issues? There's reserach showing toxicity can affect the CNS and other systems - including the heart. My neurologist doesn't know what's causing my PN. I'm a complicated case, also being an epileptic [hereditary] and having suffered dozens of significant concussions during my life.

The latest is that they are (i) going back to screen the very high levels of protein found in my CSF four years ago, (ii) undertake a further [comparative MRI], and (iii) heart tests.

Let's see if they can find some further clues...

Blood levels thoroughly checked and all ok except I have to take high dose vitamin D from time to time as my levels can drop significantly.

Sorry you’ve got disease process upon disease process and it’s hard to suss out which is which. I only had one head injury at 22, family history of epilepsy but I didn’t get it. Had another fall in an earthquake in 1988 that injured my back. The accumulated injuries has led to severe spinal OA, osteoporosis, PN and chronic pain. Luckily I’ve found my sweet spot between meds, diet and exercise I’m at a manageable pain level. I just finished PT for the 4th time and will return to it when something else kicks in. I’m a firm believer in PT helping me to fix myself.

Well I got AFIB in 2019- medication worked the first year or so and had to have Ablation which lasted almost 4 years at Mayo Clinic. It came back May 2024 and caused a Mild Stroke. ( I have recovered well from the Stroke) Got a Cardioversion at Mayo end of July, 2024 and it only took one Shock and back in Sinus R. For now. Going back to Mayo actually today to see if they plan another Ablation or ? I am now 80 years old..
I also was diagnosed with Neuropathy a couple of years ago.. I somehow don’t think they are connected.. I also have Primary Tarda Lymphedema that is inherited and surfaced at age 70 years… So my legs, feet and veins have problems. I had many falls until my Neurologist at Mayo had my feet and hands tested and found out about my Neuropathy.
*The best thing I have found for blood circulation is getting into a Swimming Pool. Just walking in water chest deep pushing through helps my legs…
I also need my Knees Replaced but am too afraid of infection. I recently learned there is a process where they go through your groin and cut a nerve by your knees and it gives pain relief… I have been referred to the Mayo Pain Clinic for assessment… The list is long so may not get in until 2025. I mostly walk with a Walker but can walk unsupported some but am not well balanced.
I have a positive attitude and grateful I am not in severe pain. I try to do as much as possible physically but it is getting more difficult.

No it didn't for me I still have neuropathy in hands and feet and will see a neurologist in OCT..