sinus rhythm

anger

by Seabreeze - 2016-09-30 12:41:18

Anger can be a motivator, which has worked for me also.  Yes, I've been changing my nutrition intake also; I'm finding gluten free is helping me.

Thanks.

AV Node

by gleesue - 2016-09-30 12:53:35

Seabreeze,

It’s a good idea to see a specialist to see what your options. I just had my fifth ablation and may need one more.

Just be sure that you understand that destroying the AV Node does not fix A-fib. It cuts off the connection between the Atrium and Ventricle. You may still have A-fib, but in most people, symptoms will be reduced. You will also need to be 100% paced. It’s a big decision, so I would take a close look at all the options. I don’t know but your IVC may put limits on what can be done.

Blessings,

Jerry

Feeling low

by Jane S - 2016-10-01 06:35:16

I can totally get how you feel, I didn't have AFib but lots of problems with heart block (6years to get a dianosis) PM implanted then 18 months with tachycardias linked with the PM. AV node abaltion, much improved but still "some sinus hiccups".

Yes I have cried over lots of people, friends folk at work, my hairdresser, on the phone etc etc. It wasn't self pity as such more of frustration of why nothing was getting diagnosed/sorted even though people were doing there best, and I was feeling so awful. I got  a second opinion which helped alot as I was running out of energy to keep pushing - was never off my work, mad but did not want to "give in"

You are doing the right thing, and some times feeling a wee bit sorry for yourself can help, a good weep then move on again. Keep us in the loop of what is happening, this site was areal support, you pick up little snippets of info which help you ask more questions.

AV node abaltion is a big step, hope the other Doctors help

Take care

Jane

A-V Node Ablation

by DAVID H - 2016-10-01 18:49:10

I'm an A-V Node ablated person.  After 4 failed atrial ablations, I opted for the A-V Node cut w/pacemaker back in May 2012. Life's been calmer since. Original PM was replaced with a Medtronic VIVA XT CRT in Jan 2015. Current heart failure specialist Doc. performed an optimization this past Dec. I had a 2D Echo 2 days ago, and I'll see the Doc. in a couple weeks.  Initial scan revealed a LVEF of 15-20%. I'm pretty much asymptomatic.  175lbs - down from 240lbs 5 years ago,  Treadmill 4 miles followed by 2 miles on an indoor track every day. I hope to beat the odds!

--Dave--

blessings to you all

by Seabreeze - 2016-10-04 12:50:44

The avib is really frustrating because somedays I feel great and then the other days where quality of life feels so down........

I had the bubble echo which showed some fluid and I'll be having a followup to see if there's more fluid in 3 weeks.

Dave, you're heart failure specialist, does that mean you have congestive heart failure? (if you don't mind sharing) That's what I'm afraid of.

Jerry, the IVC may put limits. The constant avib is concerning on the wear and tear of the heart and what does that mean as we get older.

Jane, that's how I was starting to feel, running out of energy but when the doc told me that was my ony choice..that gave me some "fight".

Will keep you posted.  I don't go until Oct 21st.

Thank you for the motivation.

Time

by gleesue - 2016-10-05 12:54:55

Sea,

I’ve always been told that the heart is like a battery. It has a number of beats in it before it wears out. So, if you keep yourself in good shape and have a lower rate it will last longer. Therefore, in theory, if you heart beats at 50 bpm’s it should last longer than a heart that beats 80 bpm’s. Of course, many other factors are also involved.

I turn 70 this month, but my heart is still going strong. I cycle, kayak, golf, lift weights, hike, coach soccer, play tennis and more. I started with the A-fib problem in about 1990. A good doc can keep you going and having a normal life for a long time.

I’m planning on at least 20 more years.

Jerry