Why did you have an ablation?

[Walnut66]

Can anyone tell me who's had an ablation done what forced them into having the procedure? I mean, what their symptons were and how bad? I had now a second opinion and he also said I need whats called an EP study. It just scares me to death.

[claytex]

I got an ablation because I was having to get an electro cardio version (shocked) about every 90 days...
That was six years  ago and I have not had afib since.  It gave me my life back....that was easy..claytex

[Walnut66]

I'm glad it worked for you-:)

[researcher09]

It is a quality of life decision as AF if you can handle the medications necessary to reduce the risk of stroke and heart failure.  The two worst outcomes of AF.  On the lone AF forum, what I have seen are attempts at behavioral and lifestyle changes along with medication in attempts to stop progression beyond paroxysmal.  Some succeed, many do not (those that tend to post are mostly living healthily) and AF progressed to persistent and for some, chronic.  At the paroxysmal stage, AF ablation has a high rate of success at expert centers, over 90% now.  As it progresses into persistent or chronic, success rate goes down into the 70s% and 40% for chronic.  It really comes down to life expectancy and the quality of life during those years.  If you are asymptomatic, then being on anticoagulation therapy may be OK if you don't expect to have other health issues that require hospitalization.

[tom_h]

....and I still can't type!  

"I was nearing 60 at the time"

[tom_h]

Why?  Because after 54 years of SVT which towards the later years occurred 3 to 5 times per month, my cardiologist cautioned me about letting it go on into my later years. Mom was nearing 60 at the time.  The electrophysiologist I chose (one of 3 I saw) uses general sedation for the majority of his procedures, so consequently the experience was quite comfortable and very positive, and I was back to work after a long weekend of recuperation.

[CFS56]

Im kinda in the same boat. except I have episodes of afib.  I was scheduled to have it done yesterday and chickened out.  I have been going back and forth now for several months.

[Walnut66]

I feel the same way, especially after he went on to say there was no guarantee it could result in a pacemaker, which is something I really don't want. I am trying hard-gave up alcohol & caffeine, and trying my best to stay away from sugar, but mostly trying to manage my stressors, which is the most difficult. I figure it this way, since giving up booze has helped a lot, I am giving it till I get my insurance and if I am still getting episodes after this diet change, I will consider it. Its just he couldn't really tell me what the hell is wrong with me. He said only after the EP study will they know what is wrong with my heart.