Posted by Sharee Berry on April 15, 2002 at 16:29:40:
Since my last posting indicating that I was doing great, which I was, I have had another setback to my progress, eight months out from my surgery. Last Thursday evening, I suddenly went into A fib, took my 50mg of Lopressor but failed to convert. I remained in A fib until the next morning, Friday, (almost 11 hours). I then remained in NSR until Saturday afternoon, went back into A fib, ended up in the ER where they failed to convert me. They sent me home on Flecainide with instructions to see my EP today (Monday). Evidently, the new AFFIRM Study has revealed that as long as one is therapeutically anticoagulated the risk of stroke or sudden death is extremely low for those suffering from A fib without the complications of SVT or any other malignant arrhythmias. Since my heart rate was only in the 130s, I fell into this category. To make a long story short, I was in and out of A fib for four days. I am now back on Flecainide and Lopressor for God only knows how much longer. My EP talked about ablating the SA node and putting in a pacemaker at some point. I cringed at the thought after going through the Maze to avoid just such a scenario. He did indicate, however, that it is not uncommon for patients who have had the Maze to go through these types of problems, and tried once again to reassure me that there was hope that this would all smooth itself out eventually. It has been difficult for me to remain positive through all of this, however.
I believe in being up front with this Board concerning my progress, and thought I owed it to those who are contemplating the surgery to have all the facts. I still do not regret having had the surgery. At least I have avoided the heart rates over 200 that scared the heck out of me.
I am once again in NSR, and hopefully with the help of medications and my faith in the Lord, I will remain so. Will keep you posted on my progress.
Sharee Berry
- Re: Two Steps Forward, One Step Back! Carl Plaskett 17:22:41 4/15/2002 (0)