atrial flutter

[robbiecriss]

I went to the ER this week with what was diagnosed as atrial flutter. Heart Rate was a sustained 155 bpm. after meds it slowed and within two hours converted to normal sinus rhythm. Cardiologist recommended ablation. He also said I did not need to change anything I was doing such as diet, exercise, etc... I am 57 years old, never had an major health problems, regular runner, 164 lbs, 5'9" tall and before this in what I considered really good health. I have two questions... 1. Is this an arrhythmia I should be overly concerned about and 2. Are there dangers associated with ablation that I should consider as opposed to medication. I do take a small dose of medicine for blood pressure and cholesterol and so I am not averse to taking meds to control it. Thanks for any advice you could give me.

[buyingthetruth]

I have left aflutter.  They say that right aflutter usually has better odds being treated by ablation and is a simplier procedure.  It may be helpful to find out which type of aflutter you have.  

[robbiecriss]

Thanks for your response.

[SassyLassie]

There are more dangerous arrhythmias than what you have been diagnosed with, however, it is not a good idea to have a heart rate the fast for any length of time.

As to the ablation, I have read both good and bad things about it, some say it helped immensely, others say it did nothing, same as the drugs, I think it all depends on the individual.