AF

[feelthefear]

I have had AF for the past 14 yrs it has drove me mad and makes me ill. But because I live alone I have to work, sometimes I wonder if ill ever get through the day. History 17 Cardioversions, 2 Ablations and still plagued with it. The last year ive now developed stomach discomfort, 4" added to waist line, I can hardly walk when I go into AF. Im at the end of the road, as if AF isn't bad enough now this. Help I take Beta blocker which seems to do nothing and warfarin daily. My consultant makes no attempt to find out whats wrong ...help!!! .

[MaryLL]

I feel your pain! I went through a-fib for 14 years. Had 3 ablations, more cardioversions than I can count, and felt like you do. Had to work, always exhausted, etc. After the 2nd and 3rd ablations made things worse, I insisted on a second opinion medically. MY ONE regret is that I didn't do this sooner. As I'm sure you know, when you have this going on all the time, you aren't thinking much further than getting through the next episode.
I was referred to a cardiothoracic surgeon who worked with my electrophysiologist cardiologist.

I had a bilateral thorascopic surgery, similar to 5-box on December 12, 2012. My 2 weeks off work turned into 7 weeks as I developed pneumonia and was very very ill. However, since my recovery, I have only had one minor episode (45 minutes and it self-converted) of a-fib. This was at 17 months. I am now 21 months with only this one small "blip" on the screen.

I continue to be mindful: no caffeine, limited chocolate, watch the sodium, stay hydrated, and take a diuretic once a week. I exercise regularly 4-5 x a week, eat healthier than ever, and feel like I've been given a second chance at a good life. My job is highly stressful (I work with mentally ill heroin addicts on methadone) so I have reduced my hours to 32 per week. My "blip" happened during a particularly stressful time at work when my hours had crept up to 38 per week).

I really encourage you to find a cardiologist who takes your condition seriously. It is always okay to get a second opinion. I'm not sure where you live, but there are many fine clinics available, and it is well worth seeking out the best care you can find. As I said, my one regret is not getting a second opinion sooner. GO for it! There can be life after a-fib.

Sending prayers and hugs for you to have peace and health soon,
MaryLL

[itdood]

p.s., there's a new procedure in the US called a 5 box mini maze.  It has shown some promise for persistent AF. I'm guessing you're int he UK, not sure if they're doing the procedure there.

[itdood]

If the problem is rate control, I wonder if it's time to do an AV node ablation and go to permanent pacemaker.