Hi Mika,
this is a tough situations, but trust me that you are not alone. We see this situation several times a year.
Do you agree that the tachycardia is to high to just leave with out meds?
Yes, heart rates in the 110-120 range over time can lead to a tachycardia induced cardiomyopathy. The faster the rate, the more likely you will run into problems.
If yes is there alternative to beta blockers?
Your medical options are beta blockers and calcium channel blockers. It is unlikely that digoxin would be helpful here. If the beta blockers bother you, it would be worth trying a calcium channel blocker like verapamil or diltiazem.
When my HR is low I have problems with near syncope when exercising and have to stop.
If medicines are not able to appropriately manage your rate, another sinus node modifying procedure may be helpful. But as you know this carries a risk of needing a pacemaker when you are done. It sounds like you aren't far from a pacer now with symptomatic bradycardia at times.
These are about the only options you have for now. I hope this helps. Good luck.
A related discussion,
Alternatives to Beta Blockers was started.
Have you tried a beta blocker yet to see if it does give you asthma? I have asthma and I take a decent sized dose of Atenolol, 50mg twice daily. I noticed a slight increase in how frequent I use my inhaler, but the cessation of the arrhythmias is worth it.
sorry, now I read the part where it says BB's make it worse for you. Doh.
My doctor is a little confused about it right now. It is either sinus node dysfunction, or he said he thought it could be as a result from all the tachycardia. He thought if we could get the tachycardia under control then the slow heart rate would also be in better control. So far medications have not been able to do either of those things. I think the doctor on the forum is right and I am headed for a pacemaker. My doctor keeps telling me I will feel better and it will be safer for me, but I want to know that I have tried everything else first.
Why do the docs think your heart rate drops so low when it does -- do they think the original ablation somehow caused the bradycardia ( in addition to the tach?)?
I just switched to a calcium channel blocker for IST, but I don't have low heart rates to contend with. That sounds like another ball game altogether (the two together). Good luck.
I have a ablation and a PCD, why they still want me to take the unworking Tambocor? COL (Cry Out Lound)