AF and exercise

[maclross]

I have had specific episodes of Atrial Fibrillation 1996, then 1999, 2001, 2005, 2006 and now. In 2005 I was cardioconverted after 3 days of AF but the other times converted naturally.  I am 51 years old and 3 months ago completed an ironman race quite comfortably. No AF.  I am 185 cm tall and weigh 85 kgs and consider myself in excellent condition.  A week ago after doing intense rowing I brought on AF. On Saturday I went to the clinic. They did an EKG and then sent me to the hospital where they kept me over night. I have been diagnosed with AF and put on wayfarin and beta blockers. I feel like **** now.
My question is, what should I do now? Is it foolish to do some exercise and try to convert myself? I know when my rhythm is normal I feel great.



This discussion is related to Atrial Fibrillation conversion with exercise.

[Grezza]

Just keep exercising!
I'm 34 and have had chronic AF since I was 27. I've been cardioverted 5 times and had a pulmonary vein isolation in Nov 2006. All was great until I moved to Denver 2 weeks ago. I flipped back into AF and have remained so (could be athe altitude?).  I'm very fit (gym most days plus judo and running) and was on the 2004 GB judo team.

Best thing to do is investigate other strategies and get off the beat blockers asap. I think that the success rate for pulmonary vein isolation is something like 80% after one and up to 95% after two. If you remain in sinus rythm there'e no need to be on meds (although your doc may prescribe warfarin, coumadin (same thing) or maybe just aspirin).

G

[maclross]

Thanks for your feedback. I have again converted back but still feel the odd flutter, usually after eating. I am now on a calcium blocker and warfain and aspirin. They have done an echocardiogram but I have not been given feedback. i heard them saying my pipes were clear but i did hear the word regurgitation. Anyways I am exercising up to medium intensity and feeling good . I will have a consultation with the cardiologist next week. I will mention the pulmonary vein isolation. Thanks again. Good to hear that a fit young guy is coping with it.
regards,
maclross