If you have been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, suffer from rapid or irregular heartbeat, have chest pain or feel anxious (especially at night), consider these recommendations.
Though all of these recommendations should be helpful and safe for almost everyone, be sure to consult with your physician before trying them. If you have not already seen a physician, don’t wait; these symptoms may be indications of more serious conditions.
11 Recommendations to Help Prevent An Atrial Fibrillation Episode
1. Eliminate potential triggers.
Alcohol, caffeine (coffee, tea, chocolate), and any stimulating herbs (ephedra, ginko biloba, ginseng, guarana, horny goat weed, etc.) are all potential triggers for afibbers. Try eliminating these triggers to see if you notice a reduction in the number of your episodes.
2. Check for side effects of any prescription medications you’re taking.
Some prescription medications can be potential triggers. For example, asthma inhalers can trigger episodes for some people. If this is the case for you, talk to your doctor about alternative medications. Also, check for stimulants in any over-the-counter drugs you’re taking such as pseudoephedrine (brand names Sudafed, SudoGest, Wal-Phed, Rugby, and Suphedrine).
3. Reduce sodium.
This is difficult since almost all packaged foods contain added sodium. Read the labels. Intake should be less than 2400 mg per day. Sodium depletes potassium which is essential for the heart – and afibbers (see below). Also, replace table salt with healthier pink himalayan salt. This type of salt tastes better than table salt and is rich in minerals! This is the pink salt I use and highly recommend:
4. Increase intake of potassium.
The recommended daily allowance for potassium is 4,700mg. It’s even higher for nursing women who are recommended to get 5,100mg per day. Afibbers can be especially vulnerable to episodes if they have low potassium levels. Try to get as much potassium as you can from foods. Avocados, spinach, sweet potatoes, coconut water, kefir or yogurt, and bananas are all rich sources of potassium. Low-sodium V8 juice is even a decent option. Just one 8 ounce serving has a whopping 900mg of potassium and only 50 calories. Here is a list of foods with the most potassium:
- Avocado – 1068mg (1 whole)
- Sweet Potato – 952mg (1 medium)
- Acorn Squash – 899mg (1 cup)
- Spinach – 839mg (1 cup)
- Dried Apricots – 755mg (1/2 cup)
- Coconut Water – 600mg (1 cup)
- Kefir or Yogurt – 579mg (1 cup)
- White Beans – 502mg (1/2 cup)
- Mushrooms – 428mg (1 cup)
- Banana – 422mg (1 large)
Source: DrAxe.com
If you can’t get enough potassium from foods to meet your minimum daily requirements, supplements can help. I supplement with potassium gluconate powder every day. I use NOW gluconate powder. It has 270mg of potassium per 1/2 teaspoon. It mixes easily with any liquid and you can barely taste it (I take it with water).
5. Increase intake of magnesium (this is critical for afibbers).
Magnesium deficiency is very common among afibbers. In fact, most afibbers are deficient in magnesium. The EXA test is the most accurate way to know for sure if you’re deficient. The best food sources include dark green, leafy vegetables and nuts, whole grains, and fruits. Here are foods with the most magnesium:
- Spinach – 157mg (1 cup)
- Chard – 154mg (1 cup)
- Dark Chocolate – 95mg (1 square) – afibbers eat with caution
- Pumpkin Seeds – 92mg (1/8 cup)
- Almonds – 80mg (1 ounce)
- Black Beans – 60mg (1/2 cup)
- Avocado – 58mg (1 medium)
- Kefir or Yogurt – 50mg (1 cup)
- Figs – 50mg (1/2 cup)
- Banana – 32mg (1 medium)
Source: DrAxe.com
The challenge with magnesium is that it can take several months of consistent high intake of magnesium to increase your levels. You simply can’t eat enough high magnesium foods to effectively boost your levels. Magnesium supplementation is almost always necessary. I take ReMag magnesium liquid. It is a highly concentrated and highly absorbable magnesium chloride supplement. You get 150mg per 1/2 teaspoon serving. I try to aim for 3-4 servings per day (450-600mg per day).
The other magnesium supplement I use in conjunction with ReMag is Ease transdermal magnesium spray. Some argue that bypassing the digestive system and applying a magnesium spray is the most effective way to supplement with magnesium. A lot of people cannot tolerate a high intake of oral magnesium supplements as they can have a laxative effect. By using a spray you can get a large amount of magnesium without the potential side effects of loose stools and diarrhea.
I use Ease because it’s a high quality supplement that absorbs very quickly without leaving a white residue on your skin that is common with other spray products. You get about 25mg of magnesium per spray so four sprays on your skin will give you 100mg of magnesium.
Visit my magnesium for atrial fibrillation page for more information on this topic.
6. Take a good, low-dose multi-vitamin (more is not always better).
Again, you should always try to get your vitamins and minerals from a healthy diet but for most of us we’re going to need a multi-vitamin to cover our bases. I take the multivitamin, ProThera VitaPrime.
7. Experiment with other helpful supplements.
We’re all different; what works for me may not work for you. Many afibbers take a variety of “heart healthy” supplements such as taurine powder like this one:
Another popular supplement among afibbers is CoQ10. I personally take 200mg a day of Life Extension’s Super Ubiquinol CoQ10.
L-Carnitine Powder is yet another favorite.
If you haven’t noticed, I take mostly powder and liquid supplements. I do that for several reasons. One, they are always the least expensive. Two, they are the most pure form as you don’t have a bunch of other ingredients included. Three, you can control exactly how much you want in each serving. Four, you can mix them in just about anything – water, juice, smoothies, protein shakes, etc. Five, they are usually more readily absorbed than tablets or capsules.
8. Eat a heart healthy diet.
Simply put, eat more fruits, vegetables, and lean protein. However, if you’re reading this you’re probably looking for specifics. There are varying opinions on what is the best diet for people with atrial fibrillation but one diet I keep hearing about is the Paleo Diet. I’ve never tried it myself but I’ve heard from afibbers that swear by it. The book, “Paleo for Beginners: Essentials to Get Started,” might be a good start.
The diet I read about once and tried to follow for a while was the Zone diet. Everything I read about it makes sense and it’s not nearly as restrictive as other diets. I’d start with the book, “Enter the Zone: A Dietary Road Map to Lose Weight Permanently.”
Finally, the Mediterranean diet is very popular among afibbers. I’d start with the book, “The Mediterranean Diet for Beginners.”
9. Get some exercise.
The good news for those afibbers that don’t like to exercise is that excessive exercise is NOT good. In fact there are studies now that show excessive exercise such as training and running in a marathon can contribute to afib! I was an exercise freak throughout my 20’s. I would lift weights for 30-45 minutes every day and then run (at full sprint speed) for 20-30 minutes afterwards. It’s not surprising I had my first afib episode when I was only 33.
Needless to say, since being diagnosed with afib in 2006, I only power walk now for 30 minutes every day. I also do some light stretching and occasional light lifting. I don’t even think you can call it “lifting” as I only use my body weight or I’ll use my TheraBand resistance bands.
We all need exercise – even afibbers – but the key is moderation! If you have afib and you are a daily runner or heavy weight lifter, it would be a good idea to throttle back. You’re only making your condition worse over the long-term.
10. Drink plenty of water.
Dehydration can contribute to atrial fibrillation. Afibbers are particularly vulnerable to afib episodes in the summer heat. There’s all kinds of theories on how much water you should drink. Some say the traditional 8 glasses a day is enough (64oz). Others say drink half your body weight so if you weigh 175 lbs. you should drink roughly 88oz a day. I personally aim for a minimum of 64oz a day and usually no more than half my body weight.
I always mix my ReMag (see above) with my water so I can kill two birds with one stone; I get my water intake and my magnesium supplementation.
11. Tackle sleep issues.
Not everyone with sleep apnea has atrial fibrillation but most people with afib have sleep apnea. Treating sleep apnea can dramatically reduce the number of afib episodes you have. If you have afib, especially if you are overweight, you would do yourself a huge favor to have a sleep study done to determine if you have sleep apnea.
Lack of sleep over an extended period of time can also contribute to afib episodes. Prior to my successful ablation, I usually had my episodes after a string of days with very little sleep. And while I don’t battle afib episodes now, I do battle PVCs and PACs occasionally. They are always the worst after a few days of very little sleep. If you’re not getting enough sleep, make it a priority to do so!
These are the most important things you can do to help prevent afib episodes. If you address each one of these, you’ll likely experience a significant reduction in the number (and intensity) of afib episodes.
Do you have recommendations or suggestions to help prevent afib episodes? Share them in the comments below!
Hello everyone, I am having a very mysterious pattern of afib episodes that I would like to describe, in case anyone has any spiders what might be going on. I have had occasional afib for five years most likely triggered by taking too much t3 cytomel for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, episodes were Occurring 1-5 times a month, usually 6-8 hours in length and pretty unpleasant so I would use metoprolol when an episode started, and metoprolol left me feeling very “ wiped out” exhausted. So a month ago I asked to take a channel blocker instead to se if it would not affect me so much And I tried diltiazem instead. I’ve been taking lots of magnesium ( remap Carolyn dean) and Supplemental mineral mix and electrolyte water too. Since that first dose of ditilizem, I have now had 18 !!!!!!! Separate episodes in a period of five weeks! They occur almost like clockwork, before I lay down, They start about 8-10 pm, and they last about 6 hours on average and I took ditilizem for three weeks, then went back on metoprolol When they happen, and I also take an extra 300 mag, potassium and electrolyte water and eventually they stop…… but I am a wreck.. I have an ablation scheduled ina week but from what I read, is till May have more of these attacks after it, at least for a few months… if anyone has any suggestions or ideas as to what I might be doing I’m all ears ( I eat vegan whole foods gluten and dairy free and am trying to lose weight because I need to) thank you
Very interesting self help site and thx everyone for your tips and experience. My story is slightly different. My Afib started as a consequence of being walloped by a virus caught through air conditioning systems via hotels and planes – later identified as chlamydia pneumoniae ( not dissimilar to COVID 19 symptoms) – which caused pneumonia in my right lung and attacked the sac around my heart. My BP was at 175bpm for 2 days and I self admitted to A&E. I effectively suffered from heart failure.
Investigation involved ECG and an Echocardiogram which showed that my left ventricle was compromised functioning at only 25% hence Afib. Treatment involved rivaroxaban (blood thinner) to eliminate any stroke risk, Bisoprolol (beta blocker) to protect the heart and Ramipril to reduce and control blood pressure. I’ve since had a Cardioversion which was successful for about 6 weeks only and am now being lined up for an urgent ablation. The ablation is being preceded by taking Amiodorone, a well documented Afib medication which stabilises the heart’s pumping mechanism.
I would strongly recommend that you seek a cardiac MRI if you have Afib. This is because cardiologist can then see exactly what your heart is doing using 3D imagery. CT scans are not detailed enough and an MRI can also detect the electrical activity of the heart, which is what Afib is all about.
It’s been mentioned before but realising your own mortality is probably the most shocking after effect of having to live with Afib. Cardioversion, Ablation or drug controlled therapy can all alleviate Afib to some extent and as we are all different then what works for one doesn’t necessarily mean it will work for another.
I also tend to go with the science and don’t subscribe to supplements partly because the makers of these products are not regulated and partly because there is no scientific proof that they actually work. Although I would definitely concede that lifestyle is definitely a factor and probably the most important when looking after your heart.
Good luck everyone and I look forward to reading more about living with Afib.
Thank you for your article. It might be too early to claim victory but just one week after i started taking taurine, i ‘m feeling like if i had to describe a cure from Afiib, this would be it. It took just one week of 2g of daily taurine powder.IT also solved my sleep deprivation problem. I read that one might have to take it for life but i don’t mind. Research seem to indicate that 3g/day is safe for life. I weight just about 80kg so my 2g/day might not work for everyone. I’m however very thankful i found taurine.
I’ve had PACs for over 30 years and was recently diagnosed with Afib. I did a scan through the posts and I didn’t see anything about cayenne. My wife told me about Dr. Christopher and cayenne and how it helps heart attack victims in an amazing way and its other benefits. According to him it feeds the heart for immediate effects when taken as a warm/hot tea. I’ll be trying this with my next bout of Afib. Anyone had any experience with it?
George:
I read something once about cayenne and how it can help but I don’t recall exactly what I read about it. Can you provide more details on this Dr. Christopher person and what he specifically says about cayenne?
Travis
Just to reply to all..I fell off a horse last spring and got conked out. On the way to the hospital I told the driver I was in AFib. Easy to tell isn’t it? At the hospital since I told them I couldn’t take the Eliquis etc drugs they just left me off anything while they did a million tests dealing with the fal l(allwas fine by the way other than a mild concussion ). I had one of those awful collars on so couldn’t use my usual ways to get out of the a fib. After 4-5 hours of emergency room BS they decide to shock my heart. I’m thinking …no way in Hell….but they first gave me a shot of metoprolol (sp?) and within 30 minutes I was back to normal. WOW! so I went to my doc after that and got a prescription for it and when I feel an attack coming on I pop that pill. Life saver. Sometimes works quickly but may take an hour depending on how the attack is going. But now I can actually go to work (violinist) without worrying about having an attack . This must be what they call the “pill in a pocket” . My doc says I am not bad off enough for ablation but will probably get worse. BUt no other meds. Lots of potassium and magnesium oil are all I have at the moment since I just don’t take meds well. Beta Blocker …hooray! B ut I don’t drink, eat chocolate (except a cheat every now and then) gave up coffee. no reefer and so far so good. And I agree that lack of sleep is ruinous. I sleep poorly even taking a very low dose of lorazepam. But life continues to be good. Moderation is the key for all. Very nice to see this site pop up on my screed again
Excellent site, and an overall excellent article. There’s one concern you should consider, which is new information to me, the RRR-alpha-tocopheral (E) is nicknamed “The RAT” by at least one doc who recommends vitamin E highly. There are studies showing “E causes blah blah” because they used the RAT and not d-alpha-tocopherol.
Turns out that E is not one chemical but an entire family of chemicals so it does matter which one you use. This COULD be bad information but it is at least worth your time to investigate.
Herb:
Thanks for your comments. Yes, you are correct. You definitely want to take the alpha tocopherol with mixed tocopherols form of vitamin E. Specifically, you want to take d-alpha tocopherol succinate or acetate Vitamin E with gamma tocopherol. This per Dr. Sinatra:
https://www.drsinatra.com/take-advantage-of-the-benefits-of-vitamin-e
Travis
Wow, this is a lot of wonderful information! I had my first AFib episode 3 days ago. I woke up at 3:30 am with what I thought was a heart attack (extreme pain in my jaw, weakness, pain in upper back). I called 911. My heartbeat was all over the place. I was diagnosed with AFib and carted to the ER, then in-patient at the hospital for a day.
They put me on Eliquis and said if I had another episode to take an additional tablet of Carvedilol (which was prescribed 2 years ago when I did have a heart attack). It seemed like something was missing in this so I searched and found this site. I guess I have done it all wrong. I drank 4-5 glasses of white wine in a week. I drank 3-4 cups coffee a day. I don’t drink enough water and I have difficulty sleeping (even with Melatonin), perhaps 2-4 hours per night.
I’m trying to turn this around. No more wine. No more coffee. I try for 64 oz of water/day but still can’t sleep at night. I found side effects of the thyroid medicine I was on was chest pain/pressure, fast heartbeat, heartbeat that does not feel normal. Carvedilol’s side effects are slow heartbeat, chest pain so perhaps all this created the “perfect storm.” Now, to get out of the perfect storm! Thanks for all the information!
DJ:
Congrats on your decision to make some serious lifestyle changes to help keep your afib at bay. If after a period of time – say 6-9 months – your lifestyle changes don’t work, you might want to consider having an ablation. That will give you the best shot at “curing” your afib. I wish you the best.
Travis
Travis:
Any any thoughts about acupuncture?
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3312232/
Joseph:
I haven’t done acupuncture myself but I’ve heard from others that it can be helpful. It certainly wouldn’t hurt to try it. You have nothing to lose.
Travis
Just to add to this discussion…I followed Travis’ recommendations about potassium and magnesium some time ago and haven’t had any episodes since April 10. I can’t take pills so I am using the magnesium oil/spray which is great. Use it once every day in the morning. I eat a handful of dried apricots every day and drink a low sodium V8 juice.
So far so good. I do all that I was doing before including walking every day horsebackriding and working as a musician. I am 72. Life seems pretty good for the moment. *.
Sarah:
That is so great to hear! I’m glad the potassium and magnesium are working for you. Have a great rest of the summer!!
Travis
Hi,
I have just been diagnosed with AFIB, but have had episodes prior only when playing ice hockey. Raising the heart rate above 130 BPM seems to do the trick. I always went back to NSR after 5-6 hours or so. Recently I had episodes prior to getting into a sleep.
I am anxious by nature so I am sure that doesn’t help me. My cardiologist put me on Sotalol 80 MG but no blood thinners, which I have not taken yet as I prefer not to go that route and try and control this naturally. What are your thoughts on the drug? Can it eliminate the episodes? What is it supposed to do? The odd AFIB episode seems to happen every 2-3 weeks or so. Thank You so much!!!
Gary:
Sotalol, like any of the drugs used to manage afib, is hit and miss. What I mean by that is for some, sotalol works great and for others it doesn’t work at all. People have been on sotalol for years with success – while others don’t have a good experience with it. You won’t really know until you try it.
Sotalol is a beta blocker so it’s primary role is to slow your heart rate. Some people are very sensitive to beta blockers. In short, they are miserable when taking them. If you do decide to try it and you can’t tolerate it, you might want to talk to your doctor about taking a calcium channel blocker. Another option would be the pill-in-the-pocket approach using flecainide (or even taking a low dose flecainide on a daily basis). These are all options to discuss with your doctor.
Of all the drug options, I’m a fan of the pill-in-the-pocket approach or a daily low dose of flecainide but I’m not a fan of any of these drugs to be honest. This is why I opted for an ablation.
I don’t know what your age is but if you’re still playing hockey I’m assuming you’re under 60 years of age so you are relatively young. I’d seriously consider having an ablation if I were you. If you go that route, be sure to check this resource out: https://www.livingwithatrialfibrillation.com/3137/successful-afib-ablation/
I wish you well!
Travis
What do you have to do to get an ablation?. Is it only for certain types of A Fib? I had asked my doc about an ablation and it was just no.
So I have just done what I can naturally .
Thanks to you and this message board I think I have done quite well. I did have an attack last Tues after none since April but followed all the instructions that you gave and it wasn’t nearly as bad as the last one. Didn’t even have to do the ice cold shower. lol
But I really miss coffee and chocolate.
Sarah:
You are seeing the wrong doctor! He or she is obviously biased and close-minded (or simply doesn’t have the skills to do an ablation so that’s why you’re being told it’s not an option).
I would seek a second opinion. Just be sure you see an experienced elite-level EP!
I’m glad these natural methods are helping you manage your afib better!
Travis
Interesting Travis. It was actually the nurse that told me that. I see the doc again in about 6 weeks. Haven’t seen him since early spring and he told me to come back in 6 months. But I kind of felt the same way when she said that. They gave me the meds (Eliquis and Xarelto) which I couldn’t take and then I started all your suggestions.
I will definitely speak to him about it. But from what I read it needs to be a “specialist ” .Why worry about attacks if there is a way out. But the nurse did say that I had to be on the meds for 6 months before I could do that. But a young lady I know, 24 or so, just had an ablation and it has worked well so far. She was taking the pill in a pocket deal. I asked the nurse about that too but this was all done on the phone with her. I don’t even know what kind of a-fib I have so I am kind of in the dark except for all that I have read on your site and anything else I could find.
I’ll be back to let you know what they tell me. I did all that that you said. No chocolate, no coffee, no alcohol, no pot. And, I can’t remember if I said this before, but when I had the attack I drank a V-8, ate 1/2 a banana, laid down on the floor and put my feet up, slathered magnesium oil on, kept track of my heart beat and eventually came out of it after a 2 or 3 hours. Not nearly as bad as the others but still a bummer and depressing.
And, BTW, what is an EP?
Love reading other people’s stories. Sure helps. And you were quite the Godsend. It was very nice to have something to try other than stinking meds. I like the natural way whenever it is possible. Cheers to all of us!
Sarah:
EP is the abbreviation for “electrophysiologist.” These are cardiologists that specialize in the electrical activity of the heart. They specialize in heart arrhythmias. Anyone who has afib should be working with an EP – not just a general cardiologist.
Keep us posted on your journey! I’m glad to hear the potassium and magnesium are helping you keep your afib burden to a minimum.
Travis
I have been in afib for five hours as I write this, and it is my fault for not sticking to my regimen. I was diagnosed with Lone Afib in 2003 after years of intermittent, short episodes. I found Hans Larsen’s Lone Afib Yahoo support group and began to read what people were doing to control their afib naturally and also what triggered it, and I began to do likewise, after the meds the docs had me on made life so miserable with side effects (coumadin, cardizem) that I wanted to find another way. I was given Rhythmol (propafenone) and used it only when I could not self-convert.
I am deformed and crippled for life due to incompetent doctors and medical procedures and almost died, so no, I am not real keen on Western medicine or doctors or pharmaceutical drugs. And like many of you, I have encountered MD’s and cardiologists who would not listen to me, were not interested in being educated and would not even begin to consider causes and triggers. I have had to do my own research.
These are my triggers: bloating and constipation, which put pressure on my vagus nerve, are the big ones. I bloat when I eat too much dairy/sugar too often (i.e., too much ice cream, lol!) and food too high in carbs, i.e., gluten grain products, rice and potatoes. This bloating also occurs as lower leg edema, and poor circulation runs in my family. Most often, fasting and taking prune juice (high in potassium, which I’m sure helps) to move my bowels and reduce the bloat around my middle, will have me out of afib in a short time following. Other triggers, which usually occur along with the bloating, are emotional stress, processed foods high in MSG, vigorous exercise (I ride a tricycle, and that does not cause afib but has done wonders to bring my blood pressure and blood sugar levels down), caffeine (that was what initially catapulted me into my first full-blown afib episode, so I don’t do it anymore) and sleeping flat (I sleep in my recliner with a rolled-up towel behind my neck). I may be eating too much salt, although I eat the pink Himalayan salt, which has all the amino acids in it. I could try cutting down on that, as I’m sure that contributes to the edema. But there is a big controversy about the salt issue, and I have read that commercial salt could be the problem. Not sure on that, and still researching it. Also I don’t drink enough water, so I know I need to do better about that as well, and that could also be somehow tied in with the salt issue.
So what I do to control afib, and I do stay out of it (I can go more than a year, and probably indefinitely if I’m a good girl) as long as I am consistent with these things: I eat a mostly organic, grain/gluten-free whole foods diet of salads, vegetables, some fruits (blueberries, strawberries and pink grapefruit, mainly) and grass-fed beef, free-range chicken and wild-caught salmon. I have cut down my portions and try not to eat after 8 p.m., although don’t always stick to that. I don’t use condiments with a lot of artificial crap in them (especially foods grown with pesticides and herbicides like glyphosate) but put olive oil and lemon juice on my salads. Supplements I take are magnesium glycinate (this is one of two forms that don’t cause diarrhea) 360 mg twice a day; CoQ10 300 mg at bedtime; turmeric capsules, 2 in the morning to help with digestive issues. I also have started taking kelp for iodine (I know I have thyroid issues and have had a complete hysterectomy, so hormones are out of whack, probably, but I don’t supplement hormones).
Recent research has done a lot to bring to light digestive issues as being a big culprit in a lot of things. Dr. Tom O’Bryan has a lot of info about the “microbiome” and leaky gut syndrome and things like that, and afib is one of the big problems with digestive issues. Last year I went on a program of herbs and supplements to address these issues, and it helped a lot. I also avoid some foods that I believe are triggers for digestive issues: i.e., nightshades (tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, eggplant), mushrooms, apples and some other things. I also sleep a lot better than I used to since eliminating these foods and keeping the digestive system working properly.
This may or may not be a trigger for afib, but I also live as cleanly as possible. I don’t smoke, drink alcohol, take recreational drugs and don’t use chemical products in my home or on my body or in the laundry. I clean my body and my home with essential oil-based soaps (Bronners) and avoid chemicals like fabric softener and dryer sheets, air fresheners, detergents, lotions, etc.
So, these things may or may not be useful for you. I hope they are. I’m not here to argue about what people do or don’t do or what has worked or hasn’t worked for them. I just offer what I’ve done, and if you find it helpful, great, and if you don’t, then blessings to you and I hope you do find what is helpful for you.
I’m still in afib (six and a half hours now), but haven’t eaten anything except prune juice, water and a banana and will come out of it once the system gets cleared, I’m sure. Will report back when back in sinus rhythm if I can remember to. Have a great day everyone!
Kate:
Thanks for sharing this! This is great information. I’m sure it will help many people. I hope you’re out of afib by now!
Travis
Thanks, Travis! I am out of afib, came out of it an hour after I posted. Not to be too gross, but it was after a second bowel movement (thanks, prune juice!) that cleared out my system and reduced the bloating and, of course, the constipation.
I would encourage people to look at the vagus nerve connection, and the digestive angle of this issue. It won’t be the answer for everyone, but might be for many. Have a nice evening!
Kate:
Great to hear! There is definitely a vagal connection for many afibbers – although some are adrenergic in nature (exercise, stress, and stimulants trigger their afib).
Have a good one!
Travis
Kate,
thanks for sharing your experience. So glad to read below that you converted. I also see a positive response from clearing my large intestines. It seems like one of the things my body does to move on.., so to speak;-) I haven’t had an incident since 11/6/17., knock on wood! Stress is a big contributor.., but i think i remain more resilient to its effects when i watch all the possible triggers as you mention. Sleep is important for me. as are diet [ all you mention; i think msg was part of my first event], exercise and how life is going along. For me, not getting certain things on the table esp w/ my husband, as well as dealing w money issues and understandings/misunderstandings is part of the whole. I find psychological therapy, cranial sacral therapy and chiropractic seem to support my parasympathetc nervous system to do better in these areas. I have been working at being more active in exercise after being set way back by a few months of afib events last Fall
And what i find now.., maybe because I am 73.., as i get more steps in my day or enjoy being able to exert a schmidge more in the out of doors.., that I can be wiped low for a few days after a ‘step up’ in activity. It’s not a straight uphill climb, and I have to be moderate in exercise and activity even when it seems okay to do more. That has been the only way forward for me. Your sharing is very supportive. Thank you! I’m going to check out the site you mentioned.
Particularly thanks for pointing out the digestive issues. I think that may contribute to my A -Fib also. My stomach was feeling so bloated and hurt yesterday and went into awful afib when I walked up the stairs to get in bed. It lasted about 2-3 hours. It was very scary. I like the thought of dunking your face in cold water that someone mentioned.
Sarah:
Taking a freezing cold shower can sometimes work too.
Travis
I have had afib for quite a few years, but not on a regular basis. Mostly I converted on my own after a day or two. I have had to go to the emergency room two or three times because of afib. Once I ended up in a hospital in Philadelphia from an episode in the airport there on a trip to the Northeast to visit relatives. Maybe that wasn’t scary.
The last episode was around 2 1/2 years ago when I was hospitalized and electronically cardioverted shortly after. It was then the doctor permanently put me on xarelto and multaq. I don’t like either. Have had external bleeding episodes even with a minor scratch or cut and bloody noses from the xarelto. Since that time I was suffering irregular heartbeats almost daily. So, a couple of months ago, I decided to take myself off the blood thinner and the multaq and carry the pills in my pocket, including a low-dose aspirin.
Strangely enough, or coincidentally, my irregular heartbeats disappeared. I am on cholesterol medication (Crestor 10 mg and have been for quite a while) and my last tests showed a total cholesterol of 128 with an LDL in the 50s. I monitor my BP daily and I get readings regularly like 125/71, 118/72, 116/65, 123/64, 120/52 with pulse rates in the 54 to 70 range.
I also have sleep apnea, do not have a CPAP, but use a tongue retainer in place of CPAP. It is quite effective. I also have an oximeter with telemetry at home and monitor my apnea regularly. I work out a couple times a week in the local fitness center (no free weights) and get in a round of golf at least once a week. I am very aware of my body. Additionally, in 2012, on the Ides of March, I had a triple bypass. I take two senior multiple vitamins daily and monitor my fat intake. I am trying to get off some extra weight.
John:
Thanks for sharing your story. Glad to hear you’ve found a game plan that works for you!
Travis
Here it is 2019 and I haven’t had a full blown episode in around two years. However, over the last couple of months I have been getting what seems like mild starts of afib when my heart gets out of sync. So, I found something by accident that works very well, but I do not know why. Whenever I start to get one of these episodes I stand up, put my hands down by my sides, get myself relaxed and take 10 to 15 deep breaths and exhale each slowly. The symptoms just disappear and I am back in rhythm immediately. Figure that one out.
I mentioned it to my cardiologist and he said he cannot explain it and the only way to find out is for me to wear a monitor. Haven’t done that yet.
I work out two or three time a week in a gym, do no cardio or free weights but I use a recumbent bike, some upper body (machines) and manage to bike around 40 miles a month.
Hi everyone, I have afib and had a cardioversion about 9 months ago. I also just had an ablation about a week ago. I am 61 year-old female. If anyone has any questions I would be glad to answer. I was also in the hospital last May due to heart failure for 8 days and had to wear a life vest for 3 months. I’ve been through the mill.
Colette:
Thanks for sharing your story. I hope you’re doing well today! What is a life vest? And are you no longer having heart failure?
Travis
A life vest or a defibrillator. I got my AFIB under control, yes am no longer in heart failure.
Colette:
That’s great to hear! God Bless!
Travis
I had heart cath today. There was no blockage and my heart looked fine but no one can tell me why my heartbeat is irregular or why it goes into Afib. Please help me. Thank You!
Delores:
If anyone knew why people went into afib they would be a hero and probably a millionaire to boot! The truth is, we don’t know why people get afib. Although, I suspect it’s a defect in our genes. Asking why we go into afib is like asking why does someone get Parkinson’s. It’s a rather complex and loaded question that unfortunately we don’t have a lot of answers yet.
If you’re willing to share more details about your specific situation we may be able to provide some tips to help keep you out of afib or lessen your overall afib burden.
Travis
What do you know about hybrid ablation? I have had two cryoablations and am once again having episodes a year after the last. My electrophysiologist has suggested one.
Maureen:
The hybrid ablation is using a combination of an EP and a surgeon. The EP works the inside of the heart and the surgeon works the outside of the heart. I would not go that route just yet. Cryoballon ablations have their limitations. You simply can’t ablate all the potential trigger areas in the heart with cryoballon. My guess is your initial ablations either weren’t done thoroughly (so you’re having break throughs) or you have triggers beyond where the cryoballon can be used.
You would be better off seeing an EP that has extensive experience doing complex ablations (i.e. doing ablations on persistent afibbers). EP’s with this kind of experience will be able to identify and ablate trigger sources beyond the pulmonary veins.
If you have more questions, please contact me directly via the contact page on this blog and I can explain more.
Thanks!
Travis
Thanks for your insight. Before my first Ablation, I interviewed several Electrophysiologists and chose one who had extensive experience with a-fib in UPMC Shadyside’s cardiac group. Presently I am trying to rule out other possible triggers before deciding about another Ablation.
Maureen:
Good to hear you interviewed “several” EPs and didn’t just settle with the first one you went to. That’s great! I always tell people to search for the most experienced expert EP they can find!
Travis
Regarding eating Himalayan salt, I found that salt is an acquired taste and once I weaned myself off, I no longer need it. I enjoy the real taste of my food much more now.
Regarding your diet recommendations, I suggest you read Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn’s great book, “Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease” for the ultimate heart diet, which really works.
Dave:
I don’t use table salt anymore as we’ve been using pink himalayan salt in our house for the past several years. I have low blood pressure so as my doctor told me, “salt is your friend,” so I actually need salt. Plus, pink himalayan salt has the added health benefit of containing essential minerals.
Thanks for the tip on the book. I’ve provided a link to it for others to check out. I’ll be sure to put it on my reading list!
Travis
I’ve had Afib for about one year. I’ve always been a long distance runner/hiker for 50 years (many marathons, 30+ mile day hikes). I tried lots of really good magnesium (Dr’s Best and magnesium with heart healthy Taurine) for months taking 600-900 mg daily with no improvement. I can still walk 60 minutes but when I do a steep hill a-fib kicks in and I can’t catch my breath.
I finally gave up on magnesium and started taking what my cardiologist prescribed, Cardizem. It helped right away. I take 60mg 2-3x a day. I’ve read that it’s not good to take magnesium if you’re on Cardizem (Diltiazem). Has anyone taken both and what was your results?
Lennie:
I haven’t heard of the potential negative reaction between magnesium and diltiazem. You might want to reach out to Dr. Dean’s company (ReMag). They are usually pretty good at replying to questions like that if you send them an email. You can send them an email here: https://rnareset.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/requests/new
Travis
What is Cardizem?
Sarah:
Cardizem is the brand name for the generic, diltiazem. It’s a calcium channel blocker. It helps control your heart rate. Specifically, it lowers your heart rate. It does NOT convert you to normal sinus rhythm but instead just lowers the overall heart rate.
For example, you might be in afib and without the drug your heart rate is pounding away at 180 beats per minute. With a calcium channel blocker it would lower it to say 140 beats per minute or whatever. You’d still be in afib but your heart rate would be lower. I hope this helps.
Travis
Hello, this is a wonderful resource. Thank you so much! I am new having just been diagnosed this week. I have not seen calcium listed on things I should avoid. Should I stay away from dairy and anything with calcium? Thank you so much for your help!
Matt:
The short answer is no. All things in moderation:) Having said that, if you drink a couple glasses of milk or consume a lot of calcium-rich foods in a given day and have an afib episode, you may need to cut back. I wouldn’t cut them out completely.
What you want to avoid as an afibber is taking calcium supplements – but even that isn’t true all the time. Calcium is an electrolyte so if you have some serious electrolyte imbalances, you may need to take a little calcium to balance things out.
Bottom line, don’t worry about having a glass of milk or some cheese. Just don’t go overboard with calcium.
Travis
Thank you.
I was wondering the same thing. Trying to get my diet together and get the magnesium and potassium in.
Has anyone had experience with direct cardioversion treatment for AF when they have to take cortisone (Prednisone) on a permanent basis?
I know this medication can ramp up AF episodes prior to treatment, but I need to know if the treatment can be successful whilst taking the medication.
This info is for my Mum. She is 77 and has had AF for approx 4 years and it has been quite debilitating. Her doctors don’t like her asking too many questions. She needs to decide whether or not to have the procedure. Unfortunately she has many other health issues which complicate the treatment for her AF.
Appreciate any feed back or experience that you guys may have. Thanks.
Wendy:
I don’t have any experience having cardioversions while taking prednisone but here’s what I can tell you. It’s possible the prednisone will continue to trigger your mum’s afib after the cardioversion but here’s the thing…cardioversions don’t really “treat” afib any way.
If your mum has a difficult case of afib, she’ll like go into afib eventually after her cardioversion even without the prednisone.
I don’t know your mum’s other health issues but if she can, she should look into having an ablation. That is her best shot at a cure. Otherwise she’ll be stuck with taking meds to manage the afib and having the occasional cardioversion. I wish her the best!
Travis
Thank you so much Travis for getting back to me so quickly, much appreciated. Everything that you have said makes perfect sense. I wish that she would have/could have had an ablation years ago. It hasn’t been what you would call easy for her, a very long story. She has had so much to deal with, mainly because of totally incompetent doctors and years of mistreatment or no treatment. She has a very difficult case to manage, but I sincerely doubt she would have the ablation, there is nowhere for her to have it done in the state she lives in and the closest facility is away from family and support, a plane trip, etc etc, she just won’t do it. She is so worn down and lives with a lot of pain. Fibromyalgia, osteoporosis, AF and lower leg vein with circulatory issues, many meds that clash. It’s a mess but she battles on.
I will pass on to her your advice and comments and keep communicating here when we need info, advice and or support.
Take care, thanks again.
Wendy.
Wendy:
So sorry to hear about all of your mum’s health struggles. It breaks my heart to hear these stories. I wish I had better answers for her. I wish her (and you) the very best. If you have any questions, let me know.
God Bless.
Travis
Thanks mate, appreciate that.
Hi I’m a 35 year-old female with normal structural heart and no other issues. I was getting episodes every two years now this year (Jan, April, and May) episodes last 11-15 min. I lay on the floor sit up a little bit and blow it breaks it. I had episode yesterday very scary heart rate 215 at one point. I shoved a beta blocker propanol down my throat and a baby aspirin. So far ok today. Mine seemed to start the week before my menstrual cycle. It starts when I get runs of pacs. I’m just so scared. My Dr said use the meds as a pill in the pocket. What do you think?
Barbara:
When I was battling afib (prior to my ablation back in 2015), I was doing the pill-in-the-pocket. At the time, my doctor prescribed Flecainide as a pill-in-the-pocket. It worked great for me. I wasn’t on a beta blocker, however.
Given your very young age and normal structural heart, I would strongly encourage you to consider having an ablation. You’re too young to be confined to drugs the rest of your life. An ablation is your best shot at a “cure” without meds. If you go that route, be sure to contact me as I have some important info to share.
I wish you well.
Travis
Barbara, if you are out there, thank you for sharing your story. If I can ask what you ended up doing and how you are feeling now? After reading your story, it sounds very much like my own. I am 39 and the a fib episodes seem to be mostly related to my menstrual cycle / come on before that, and they only come on when I am relaxing in bed right before falling sleep, so vagal in nature. They are coming more often now, First two episodes were a year apart, more I can get them back to back nights then be ok for a few weeks. PACs/pvcs during the day usually mean I will have a rough night and eating poorly/drinking tends to keep them away -I am always trying to lose weight (need to) but it also seems to bring them more frequently. I am scared about an ablation. My mom has had three or so and she’s permanently in a bad rhythm/they didn’t work (her afib came in In her 70s, not 30s like me). Dr has me on daily metoprolol and rhythmol as need.
Travis:
Looks after my ablation (12/20/2016) I have new type of arrhythmia – atrial tachycardia episodes. Any advice? Can AT trigger AFib?
Joseph:
It’s very possible these tachycardia episodes will settle down. You’re just outside your blanking period so it’s possible to have episodes like this still.
To answer your question, any arrhythmia can potentially trigger afib. The hope is that the ablation holds. Meaning, you hope the ablation was a “durable” one so that these arrhythmia’s don’t trigger afib.
I still battle PVCs and PACs on and off and I know for a fact that prior to my ablation these would have triggered afib all day long. Fortunately, my ablation has “held” so they don’t trigger afib.
If your tachycardia episodes don’t settle down in the coming weeks and/or start triggering afib, you may need to have a touch up, second ablation.
Travis
I had an ablation for AF almost 11 weeks ago, for the first 8 weeks everything was perfect and then 2 times, on the 8 and 10 weeks I had a 1 hour each episodes of AF. Has anybody else gone through this and come out OK after the 3 month blanking period?
Joseph:
Are you still on amiodarone or did your doctor take you off of it? To answer your question, it is possible to come out o.k. after the blanking period even if you’re having afib episodes. However, you obviously don’t want to see a lot of afib activity and you want the episodes to be very short.
If you start having a lot of afib activity and/or the episodes start lasting longer, then it’s possible you may need a second touch-up procedure (if you decide that another ablation is the best option for you).
Travis
Travis:
My doctor take me off amiodarone after 9 weeks, so first episode I had when I was on Amiodarone and second after stoping it. Currently I am taking only Xarelto and will stop it after 2 weeks (3 month after ablation). I am confused about duration of blanking period: some doctors believe it takes 2 month others- 3, I am wondering why healing of damaged areas needs such long time?
thanks for your advice Travis, I had posted here several months ago and when my afib came back almost 24/7 after 6 months post cardio-aversion, I pushed the idea of getting an ablation based on your experience. About 1 month ago, I had an echo and it showed my fraction down below 30%, and they agreed to go ahead with it. They put me on Amiodarone and Dicarz and Pradaxa for blood thinning. Have to be on that for at least 4 weeks. The amiodarone really made a difference, i’m now back to episodes instead of 24/7, so I’m on the waitlist to get it done by early May, will keep you posted. Cheers Dave from New Zealand
Dave:
I’m sorry I didn’t see your comment earlier. It’s approaching early May. How are you doing these days? Are you still moving forward with an ablation? I hope all is well.
Travis
MY SECOND ABLATION WORKED MUCH BETTER THAN THE FIRST ONE .A-FIB EPISODES SHORT NOW .NITRO TABLET BRINGS IT DOWN PRETTY FAST .
Hello, Travis!
Thank you very much for your support. I would like to ask about ablation. Have you had any episodes of atrial fibrillation after the ablation? I was diagnosed with lone atrial fibrillation 4 years ago. In the beginning I seldom had episodes (about 1 time in 6 months), but since April I have them almost every month. I live in Georgia (country) and the doctor told me that it’s impossible to cure but if the episodes occur less frequently it is good success. Do you agree with my doctor and do you recommend me to have an ablation, or stay on the “pill-in-pocket” (600 mg propafenone)? It works good.
And one more question, if I do decide to have an ablation, at least how many days before the procedure should I start taking blood thinners?
Many thanks in advance.
Joseph:
I have not any afib since my ablation in March 2015 (knock on wood). I disagree with your doctor that afib can’t be cured. I know people who have been afib-free for 7-15 years after their ablation. The key, however, is having the ablation done by an experienced EP! You want an EP who has done many ablations for complex cases of afib. I highly recommend you read this article:
https://www.livingwithatrialfibrillation.com/1980/considering-an-ablation-to-treat-your-afib/
The decision to have an ablation is one I can’t make for you. You’ll have to do your own research and then make your own decision. For me, it was a no-brainer. I did not want a life of prescription drugs and I didn’t want my afib to get worse so I had an ablation as soon as my afib got worse.
If you have an ablation, your doctor will advise you what blood thinner to take and when to start taking it. My doctor had me taking a blood thinner about 2 months before my ablation and then about 2 months after my ablation. Some people have to take them longer. It depends on your own situation and what your doctor’s protocol is for the ablation procedure.
I wish you well!
Travis
Many thanks for helpful response.
I take warfarin …some don’t like warfarin ,but warfarin has a antidote vitamin k for excessive bleeding .”other” blood thinners have none .keep that in mind you will be taking this “not” your dr. remember this .
Travis,
My doctor told that before ablation I have to make transesophageal echocardiogram, But I made my research and found out that it is not recommended in case of Lone atrial fibrillation. Your opinion is very interesting for me. did you make transesophageal echocardiogram before ablation?
Thank you!
Joseph:
I did not have to have a TEE before my ablation. I understand that some EP’s do them as a general practice but my doctor doesn’t. Instead, he puts his patients on an anticoagulant for a period of time before and after the ablation to prevent the risk of blood clotting. He may do TEE’s for some patients but for the majority of them I know he doesn’t. If you’re on a blood thinner, a TEE before an ablation *usually* isn’t necessary.
Travis
Travis,
Many thanks for your comment, it encourages me to discuss this issue with my doctor an he agreed that in my case (Lone AFIB, duration of episodes 2-5 hours, I am on anticoagulants) it is not necessary. I scheduled my ablation on 20 December. I will share my experience.
Joe:
Terrific! I wish you a successful ablation! Keep us posted.
Travis
Travis,
I had ablation before yesterday. It was without any complications. Special thanks to Travis! You helped me to avoid such unpleasant procedure as TEE.
Recovery is going fine. After procedure had skip beats. Today frequency decreased by far. My doctor put me on Cordarone (amiodarone) and Xarelto for 3 months. Also prescribed Nexium, allegedly for ulcer prevention. But I am not sure if it is necessary. What is your opinion about Nexium?
Joseph:
Congrats on your ablation! And it’s great to hear you didn’t have to do the TEE and that your recovery is going well so far. That’s terrific!
As for Nexium, it’s a proton pump inhibitor that decreases the amount of acid produced in the stomach so it helps to reduce acid reflux and thus ulcers. Being on it for a period of time is fine. However, I personally wouldn’t want to be on it long-term (more than 6 weeks). Some people take Nexium for years!
The problem with long-term use is that we need a certain amount of stomach acid for proper digestion. Here is an article I found about a woman’s experience with Nexium. She does a good job of putting its use in perspective:
http://www.jolynneshane.com/how-i-got-off-nexium-for-good.html
Again, being on Nexium for a short period of time is fine. I just wouldn’t take it long-term:) There are better ways to tackle acid reflux as Jo-Lynne discusses in her article.
Have a Merry Christmas!
Travis
Travis:
Many thanks for your support and very helpful advice. 6 weeks past my ablation. I have no AFib episodes. I am still taking amiodarone and xarelto. Moderately exercising (brisk walking, stretches). My doctor told me that I can increase physical activity, however I have read that it would be better to limit physical activities for the whole blanking period. In your opinion what is the optimal physical allowed after 6 weeks? Thank you!
Joseph
Joseph:
I was extremely conservative with my physical activity during my blanking period. In fact, I didn’t do any physical activity until after the blanking period. I’d have to look over my notes but all I did during the blanking period was walk – and not even brisk walk either – just leisure walks.
I didn’t want to do anything during the blanking period except leisure walks just to be safe:)
Travis
Travis:
I would like to ask how long was for you ,,Blanking Period” and how long time did you take antiarrhythmic drugs after ablation ?
Joe:
The blanking period is technically the same for everyone – 3 months. However, some people take longer to heal so their blanking period may be 4, 5 or even 6 months. Generally speaking when we talk about blanking periods we’re talking about the 3 months after the ablation.
I was very fortunate in that I didn’t have to take any drugs after my ablation except Eliquis (blood thinner) for two months. It’s important to note I wasn’t on any drugs prior to my ablation either except Eliquis for a month or so.
Travis
Travis:
Our conditions before ablation are very similar: I also wasn’t on any drugs. Just during Afib episodes I used Pill in pocket (propafenon 600mg) and usually I converted to NSR after 2-4 hours.
I will discuss with my doctor to stop taking amiodarone. Thank you very much!
Travis I haven’t been able to take the blood thinners yet. So far have tried Eliquis and Xarelta. I have been on baby aspirin while I try to figure out what is best . They meds make me feel horrible../stomach ache, headache, weak and fatigued, chest tight etc. I only took one tablet of each and then couldn’t make myself take more. I have been in touch with the nurse from my doc’s office (she is wonderful) . She mentioned Coumdin but I have read up on that and really don’t think I can tolerate it. So far the baby aspirin (2x a day) has done pretty well for me. inbetween the day of Eliquis and day off and then Xarelto had an a fib attack . Lasted about 2 + hours and it was after that that I found this site. So I assume I can’t do the ablation. Bummed about that. Wonder what I can do?
I HAVE HAD 2 ABLATIONS ..AFTER THE FIRST I HAD SEVERAL PROBLEMS WITH A STILL RACING HEART ..AFTER THE SECOND I WAS VERY MUCH BETTER ..LOSING WEIGHT HAS HELPED TOO . IT IS IMPORTANT TO FIND A GOOD DR . I HAVE SEVERAL I CAN RECOMMEND IF YOU LIKE I LIVE IN NORTH ATLANTA .
Thank you for recommendation! But I live not in US. I live in Georgia-country :)
Hi Georgia Boy, I too live close to Atlanta and would like to know the names of some good doctors in and around Atlanta, I have had afib for 13yrs and had my 2nd ablation 2 wks ago and hopefully this one works. I am 82yrs old and sure would like to be afib free for the rest of my time with my family. would appreciate it if you can give me the names of your doctor’s, thanks in advance Eddie Watson
I had an ablation a year ago. Since then I was in the ER twice for afib. Once was due to my eating habits during Easter – ham with salt and sides. Second one was caused by stress. I have to learn to control my stress and maintain a healthy diet. I do walk as much as I can.
I am on warfarin and I was told by my EP I would be on it for the rest of my life. I am on a small dose of Betapace twice-daily. I carry Cardizam with me if needed. Good luck. Remember everyone is different you have to see what works for you. I am glad that I had the ablation. Before then I felt like my heart was ready to jump out of my chest quite often.
I have also been prescribed Ranitidine 300 mg X11 daily
As since the ablation , whenever I swallow food or drink , a little pocket of air comes up as I feel my food/drink go down , my GP doesn’t want my stomach acid/ reflux/ wind to cause an irritation in my stomach so it might bleed !!
Another scary situation.
I go back to my cardiologist on September 23 rd .
Another 3 weeks yet !!!!
Any one else our there experience think wind type thing
Kind regards
Melanie
I too get atrial fib with a very bad attack of indigestion. I think the vagus nerve is obviously involved. Doctors do not investigate the triggers that cause afib attacks. All they do is tell you to take more beta blockers etc. but it’s not addressing the root cause.
Agreed. They should find the root cause of things. Everytime I ask, they treat it like it’s some huge mystery.
When I asked my first cardiologist who did my first cardioversion, why this happened to me, he said,
” WHY IS THERE AIR? ”
Ridiculous. This man is the HEAD of an award winning cardiology department of a very good hospital. He is Columbia Presbyterian and Mass General Harvard trained!
Furthermore, I know the answer. It was STRESS. Pounding, prolonged pressure. A lifetime of worry and anxiety that drove my heart to quivering. But everytime I tried to talk about that, about the bigger picture, he wouldn’t listen. Finally, he fired me as his patient. Thankfully I now have a wonderful, young woman cardiologist who DOES stop look and listen to me as a whole person. She gets that I have severe PTSD as a result of severe childhood abuse and also that I am a highly sensitive empathic creature who feels things deeply. and takes everything to heart.
Things don’t happen out of the blue. Quite often they happen out of the oblivious. A good doctor should also be a good detective in order to ” get to the bottom of it” as my mother would say.
One thing my new cardiologist told me was that once the heart has been Afibbing for awhile it tends to like to do that. She said the electrical system of the heart is very complex and that they don’t really understand it. I said this is a field of medical research that needs to be pursued. She agreed.
Travis, thank you for your invaluable suggestions in this article. It’s an arsenal of support that every AFIBBER should know about.
I take 120mgs of Sotalol 2x daily and feel it has eroded my vitality over the last 3 yrs I’ve been on it. I don’t want to be on anything. But I don’t necessarily want to have an ablation either. My mistake was I walked around with AFIB for 6 mos before being hospitalized in 2014 because I didn’t have insurance and was terrified of doctors. That was dumb. Had I gone immediately to an ER they could have converted me and I’d have been good to go. Being the adult child of two alcoholics with a history of severe abuse, my learning curve is self love and self care. As an empathic soul, when it comes to other people’s crises, I am positively heroic. I’m tuned into other people’s needs, I’m wise and clever and strong, and I spring into action like Mighty Mouse. But when it comes to me I tend to neglect myself. I’m learning to do better but it hasn’t been easy.
Life here on Earth and especially now with what we are facing in America is not easy.
I wish everybody reading this peace and love ~ especially kindness toward self on your heart journey.
“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.” – John Watson
” The heart has reasons of which reason knows nothing..” – Blaise Pascal
Martha your comments mirror many of my own experiences. I have been discouraged when asking my MD, cardiologist and now new young EP what is causing my afib and the universal answer is “we don’t know”. Their solutions are ever higher dosages of pharmaceuticals that fail over time and have debilatating side effects, or invasive ablation(s) that may or may not be a cure, and may trigger new problems. I feel we all need to let our Heart & Stroke foundations, (that are giant fundraising machines), know that more research is urgently needed in this area as SVT’s and afib are on the rise …. and it’s affecting young, middle aged and older persons alike.
Martha, I so agree! I’m almost 74 and had my first afib event Dec 2009 after a few months of high stress. It was lone, and I was told it would return. I had immediately changed my diet: no choc, butter, cheese, sugar, very little meat.., and increased veggies, fruits and beans. I lost weight easily on this eating plan.
I also walked daily, but that not fast walking. I returned to meditating 2x/day, doing yoga. My bp lowered to normal on this plan. I slowly regained the weight over a few years and had a repeat event 2-3 years ago. After an extreme period of stress, afib events became more regular. I had also stopped meditating regularly. This past year I have realized the events are like a ptsd.
I’ve increased magnesium w/ CALM, mg glcyinate, and Dr Sheley’s mg lotion 2x/day. I’m seeing a therapist 2x/month and she is helping me to revamp some of my habits about money [yeeks!] w/my husband. I also see a sacral cranial person 2x/month and a non force chiropractor as needed. My ‘valium in my pocket’ is homeopathic remedies: Hyland’s Calm during the day, and Calm forte at bed, and ignatia amaura for nervousness as needed. I also take taurine, co Q10 and a bunch of other supplements, including Phosphatidylserine 2x/day.
I work on getting best sleep. It’s better, but I still wake at night often, but take a 1/2 of hyland’s calm forte if I do. Lately I take Calm and Ignatia amaura less and less, and some days not at all. I have not had an event since 11/6 this year. I had started to have events 2-3 x/wk or more, and had severely curtailed my activities as I never knew what would set them off. feeling hopeful.
I wore a cardio vest 7 yrs ago when I had the first one, and they noted nothing but some pvc’s. I now have an occasional ‘blip’, and that is when I stop and slow down and may take a homeopathic. I’ve increased my mild exercise, and think that is part of my solution; walking daily. I have a mini trampoline w/a bar to hold onto so I am not dependent on getting outside if the weather is not supportive. I am exerting more w/ less ill effects. Stress is a major part of this occurrence for me, and being less resilient w/ age to change is also. Meditation and ignoring the ‘stuff’ that happens is big help. Thanks for this forum and all the info here!!
Hi it’s me again …
Update on my ablation , which I had 9 th August 2016 ,
So I am 4 weeks post op on Tuesday next week.
Today ( Friday 2nd September , I have been having little periods of fast heart rate , throughout the day , maybe it’s because I am tired or emotional ,
Little argument with my sister , which brought on an episode , and announcement of a couple of dear friend s pertentially parting .
I had a fitful sleep last night .
Also I think I am worried about taking Xarelto , rivaoxaban x 20 mg a day
I have read the leaflet and it says 1-10 people can bleed into the brain, stomach etc
It fills me with fear .
I think I have to take this blood thinner for 3 months post op!!!!!!
Any one else had this scenario?
Melanie, I had an ablation in June. Horrible recovery in the three weeks that followed. The heart is pretty mad at all that burning so it’s trying to establish a regular beat again. 3 months out I have had three more afib episodes.
I am scheduled for my second ablation next week. My docs and others that suffer with this condition have indicated that two are usually necessary for a 94% cure rate. I am actually looking forward to it so I can get back to a normal life.
I have been on Xeralto for the full time, so you should be fine. Don’t worry, it’s your best friend right now. I hope you are in the 74% that only needs one! It’s a terrible condition but there’s hope for a full recovery and that’s very good news. Stay strong and take it very slow for that three month window.
Dear Nick ,
Yes it is a horrible condition….I am relatively fit , slim 53 year old , controlled blood pressure .
I am not sure if I had heat or cold to be honest as when I came back from theatre , I was so cold . My friend told me they had to chill me right down . I was sure my consultant said heat .
Will find out on 23 rd sept .
I agree with the problematic recovery afterwards.
I had 2 ablations 12 years ago on my right lower for eptopic beats, and my recovery was brilliant , driving after a week , no bleeding from my wounds , although I realise I was 12 years younger and not on blood thinners then .
Thank you for your positive feedback , I appreciate that
Especially about the blood thinner.
All the best with your 2 nd ablation next week.
Kind regards
Hi Melanie,
Had my second ablasion 5 weeks ago, and recovery has been excellent. I believe he got it this time and I’ve been off All meds including Zeralto. Doc has some concern so he told me to keep it close just in case, if an episode occurred. Heart race is elevated, 85 -90 at rest, 105 normal activities, but he says it’s normal and it will take some time for it to return to a slower rate. I feel blessed and hope that my experience will resonate with you to give you a new hope for a complete resolution of your a- fib. Best wishes….