Heart Rhythm Conditions – Welcome to the group

Howdy. My name is Phil and I’m 75 yo. I was diagnosed with afib 20 something years ago and I’ve had atrial flutter as well. I’ve had two ablations and a couple of cardioversions, the most recent was November of ‘24. Since then, I have had some issues with light headedness when getting up, more fatigued than before and trouble catching my breath walking up slight inclines. I decided to seek out a second opinion and was impressed with the doctor I met. He suggested a couple of options that my current doctor never mentioned and I’m trying to figure out what do. Im looking to see if folks in this group have similar experiences and can provide some insight. The options presented are another ablation, a pacemaker and do nothing. He is recommending the pacemaker first with an ablation down the road. He did not mention I had or was experiencing bradycardia which is something I’m a reading is associated with pacemakers. I have mentioned my fatigue to a number of doctors over the past few years, but this is the first time a doctor has mentioned anything that could help with that issue. I sure would appreciate any advice anyone has along these lines. Thanks

Hi, you can replace Eliquis with Garligin, make by Nat'l Sim. I have used it for years, works great, 1/5 of the price, no side effects, garlic and ginger. FYI, I have ventricular tachycardia and fibrillation.

Hi, Mary here- reading others stories is beneficial. AFIB is quite concerning at times-I’ve taken Eliquis, metoprolol and flecenide for 2 years and practice many tactics for stopping episodes before getting out the tartrate bottle. The main ones are drinking ice cold water and deep coughing. Stopped alcohol and caffeine- walk a lot every day. Reading of other ways for preventing or stopping it are greatly appreciated. Yes, hydration is critical.

Thanks for your comments. I appreciate your taking the time to respond.

Yes, you should consult with a cardiologist initially, see if you can control the AF with medication, and you should probably get in line to see an electrophysiologist (EP). The cardiologist can maybe stabilize you. You want to be in AF as little as possible in order to keep your heart in good shape. If he/she can do that, then you have bought some peace of mind and can stand to wait a bit until you see an EP.

Some of your consideration will be how AF makes you feel. Some of us cannot abide it...it makes us feel awful, and it almost ruins our lives. Others have no idea, no sensations, and they don't really care as a result. You have to learn more, decide what your risk is for developing other heart problems if your events begin to pile up and you're spending more and more time in AF. AF begets AF...so don't be in AF!

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Wow, I found some great resources out here about AFIB!

I began getting notifications of afib on my fitbit about 2 years ago, saw my doc and a cardiologist, and was put on Xarelto. About 6 months later I had a massive bleed, got 2 units of blood, and have been unwilling to take Xarelto ever since.

I have been on a Beta blocker for years. My physician recently took me off of it due to bradycardia. Since then, my pafib occurs more often, and I have wide qrs. I also have right bundle branch block.

I have been referred for a 3 day monitor and appointment with my cardiologist, but I am wondering if I should be looking for an electrophysiologist? Any thoughts?

I am sorry to hear this. My story is similar ( over 3 years now). I have changed cardiologists and am about to see another electrophysiologist in New Orleans. I fear I will hear the same . My episodes are “ nonsustained” but beta blockers, calcium channel blockers do not control my v-tach. I have almost passed out while driving but never been shocked by my defibrillator until I underwent a surgery for melanoma ( no one mentioned this to me until a pacer rep did an interrogation). I have been on amiodarone( almost went into full CHF. Most recently tried propafenone with control but same side effect. ( my abdomen looked like I was 9 months pregnant and I couldn’t breathe. I have had possible POTS, ruled out anxiety, ruled out thyroid, ruled out potassium, magnesium and calcium problems. Was told to try lexapro( I refused). Now being told possibly brugada syndrome. Very erratic heart rhythm in the evening and especially after meals. Hopefully I will find some solution. I have HCM ( nonobstructive). Good luck but try not to settle. I am a usually healthy, active 65 yr old!

I am 76. All I can say is, I wouldn't.