PACs controlling my life

[Brandie51]

I would really like to get input from you on how to deal w/ PACs.  I am 29 and have been dealing w/ arrhythms for about a year now.  I certainly feel every flutter, skip and "stop" and it is really scaring me.  Had an ablation in Nov for SVT.  Did ok for a couple of months but then the PACs started up pretty strong and now the SVT is back too.  My cardio put me on beta blockers again to try to help but it slows my heart rate down and I think it could make the PACs worse.  I know my cardio is doing everything he knows to do but it feels like I am on the brink of death when my heart rhythm and rate is all out of whack.  I get chest pain that goes up to my jaw, SOB, tightness in my throat, and hot heavy headache pain in my head.  I haven't felt right in a year and I can't help but think my cardio is missing something even though my echo was normal and my stress test didn't show any potential blockages.  How do I get my life back?  Should I get a 2nd opinion?

[ksig]

I am sorry that you are feeling so lousy. PACs are a nuisance and can interrupt your life.  Have you seen an EP?   If you would feel better, by all means, see another doctor for a second opinion.  I would suggest that that doc be an EP.  Sometimes there is a need to go through an additional ablation to solve your problem.  I have had 4.

I hope the PACs settle down for you soon.
ksig

[Brandie51]

Thank you for your comments.  I haven't seen an EP this time but my cardio said he would refer me if the beta blockers don't help.  So far, they have helped but not eliminated the problems.  I just want to feel normal again.  Any advice on how to settle these PACs other than avoid stimulants and take my meds?

[rilesnic]

I have suffered from PAC's for 16 years.  I avoid caffeine, alcohol, msg, and fried foods.  I am on a beta-blocker but still get them. They are VERY scary, and they cause me anxiety and panic. You said you haven't seen an EP.  Who did your ablation?  I sometimes cough really hard (stimulating the vagal nerve) and that helps some.  I'm sorry you are one of the people who are symptomatic with your PAC's.  Sounds like you're doing everything right.  Continue to get monitored by your cardio as needed.  Best to you!

[ksig]

As far as helping you settle the nasty PACs down, I was given a trick by my EP's nurse and it has worked on many occasions.  Lay on a flat surface (like a bed or floor) and raise both legs offf the ground and hold them about 6" off the ground for 30 sec to a min.  It does wonders.

I also agree with "rilesnic" and cut out caffeine and alcohol.  

I think it would be a good idea to take your cardiologist's opinion and see an EP.  What do you have to lose?  Good luck.
ksig

[Brandie51]

I saw an EP for SVT about 6 months ago for the ablation but the PACs really didn't get bad until the last few months and I haven't seen the EP since these have gotten so severe.  Sorry for the confusion there.  Thank you for the response.  I try the cough sometimes too and I think it might help a little.  I have eliminated my coffee and I don't drink.  I try to ignore the PACs but it's really hard b/c when I feel the "stop", I panic.  Also,I can't help but wonder, what if I ignore something serious.  I've never suffered from panic before my heart issues.  Now, it's all the time.  I am trying to do better about that but it's still tough.

[Brandie51]

You're right...at this point I have nothing to loose.  Thank you for the advice.  I'm going to try that trick.  I appreciate your responses.