A-fib Question

I don't have a PM but I know alot on this board are dealing with A-fib issues. After my EP was very sure that my swelling in legs was NOT due to my heart--I waited a few months (suggested by cardio--trying other methods of elevation, low salt, compression etc.) then got an appt with my GP. I went in last thursday and because my BP was high (160/90) and I was complaining about my legs being so swollen he put me on hydrochlorothiazide. It has worked Wonders for my swelling and I've gone from 217 down to 205 since Thursday! The question now is my heart rate seems to be creeping up and i feel like I'm going out of rhythm again--could this be from the HCTZ or just co-incidence?? or possibly from losing so much water?? Although i'm feeling better because of the water loss i'm also feeling "crappy" again because my heart's decided to go racing again. Any ideas??

3 Comments

HCTZ and potassium

by Elleninminn - 2013-11-18 03:11:55

My cardiologist said the danger with taking a diuretic like HCTZ is that it can deplete potassium, which your heart needs to function well. Have you had a blood test to see if the level is in the standard range? Are you taking a heart rate drug such as metoprolol? That can cause swelling in the feet and legs, at least it did for me. There are some potassium-sparing diuretics that can be used instead of HCTZ. If you doctor hasn't had you tested, I'd ask about it.

Blood Pressure

by kmom - 2013-11-18 09:11:12

I actually only think the reason he put me on that drug was because my blood pressure had risen to 160/90 --If it hadn't been for that, I don't think i'd been on anything (other than the propafenone and pradaxa that i'm already on). From what i've been reading about HCtz is that is the first drug of choice for high BP. I really don't think he had any idea that I would loose so much water. apparently with CVI although your legs look like you've got alot of fluid it's really just the blood pooling. he also ordered compression socks which were fitted on Thursday--I know darn good and well they are NOT going to fit now ha! I will definitely call the dr. and see if they can get my potassium checked.

I'm on HCTZ also

by Mozer - 2013-11-20 01:11:19

I have continuous a-fib now, on a PM since 2008 after an AV Node ablation. My cardiologist recently put me on HCTZ when my BP elevated somewhat and I was having some swelling in my legs, not bad, but bothersome to me. He has me take a low dose every other day and that does the trick. My BP is normal and my legs are not swelling like they used to.

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