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Afib/tachycardia and colonoscopy
I am 82 yr old female - have had 2 ablations and #3 will be in March - AV node.
I am on sotalol and metoprolol and Afib free for 6 months. I have continuing long and short bouts of tachycardia.
I recently had a positive Cologuard. I have had occasional benign polyps in the past - no cancer history.
I am concerned about having a colonoscopy as the prep will wash out meds and leave me vulnerable to tachycardia. Has anyone had experience with this issue?
Thank you!
Dalewhit
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The terminal half-life of sotolol is about 20 hours. So, for the 12 hours you need to cleanse, you will still have some residual sotolol working for you. But, it's a good question, and I think you should run is by your EP or internist/cardiologist. They may arrange for an injectable form of anti-arrhythmic to tide you over.
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1 ReactionThank you so much Gloaming! Your reply is reassuring.
3 yrs ago had 1st run of afib 12 hrs after colonoscopy. It converted in its own with iv hydration. Was 63 yo with hbp. No other cardiac issues. Doc said probably caused by dehydration/electrolyte imbalance. No further events. Want to be off of eliquis. Doc says no. Also says ablation or other procedures not indicated. Im tired of the bruising,but clearly do not want to have a stroke.
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2 ReactionsI'm 85 (male) and have been told by my doc 2 years ago "no more colonoscopies". That as you get older, the colon becomes more vulnerable to breaking from the colonoscopy and that risk is greater than what they might find. In your case, there may be more reason to have the colonoscopy but it's worth asking about it.
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3 ReactionsYes - I am aware. And I will be asking about it. My previous cologuard was negative 3 yrs ago. Am concerned about the age factor.
Thank you for your reply!
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1 ReactionI wish. My dad died of colon cancer at age 59. Unfortunately i have had polyps, not the bad ones. I also have bad ibsd. So i remain on the 3-5 year colonoscopy plan. Age 75 is a long time away.
Sorry you have to have regular colonoscopies going forward. But health is wealth!
Thanks for asking that question. I’m in the same boat and will be watching for input on this.
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1 ReactionHave scheduled colonoscopy for this Monday. Electrophysiology team has no protocol? I need to find out if there is a problem so am taking my chances. They (gastroenterologists) gave me CLENPIQ for prep which is supposed to be easier - I think. Also very expensive but I got a freebie. Will let you know how I make out.
Just the details and results of the procedure......please...not what leads up to it. 😀