Lucky you, I have had 3 (unnecessary IMHO)  ablations, thousands of dollars of medications, and tons of sleepless nights, discomfort and stress. My first ablation, 10 years ago was accompanied by some lifestyle changes and stress management, as it was preceded by a (very small) heart attack. I do not have heart disease, my overall health, cholesteral and weight were great, and I never smoked. My electro-physiologist figured the heart attack was from the AFIB causing the blood to pool  then clot

Blood clots

in the heart.  OK for 7 years, then all the AFIB came crashing back. So another ablation 2 1/2 years ago - seemed good for about 9 months then big time AFIB again. Last ablation was 9 months ago and the AFIB started back about 2 months ago. Every appointment with electro-physiologist and cardiologist I mentioned chest discomfort under the breastbone, pressure

Pressure ulcer

, distended chest, gurgling as well as issues after eating and when lying down, which all fell on deaf ears

Ear barotrauma
Ear discharge
Ear emergencies
Ear examination
Ear tube insertion
Ear tube insertion - series

. Cardiologists and electro-physiologists do not want to hear that their livelihood may not be the cause, so they completely ignore and actively dispel any notions to the contrary. My AFIB was hitting me 3 to 5 times a day again, usually after eating and always lying down, especially on my left side. So 2 weeks ago my cardiologist wanted to increase the Sotolol anti-arrythmia dose. Before making the change I did some research of my own - discussions such as this one - considered Hiatus hernia might be the culprit, and stopped taking the Sotolol altogether. Changed my eating habits, smaller meals, no meals after 8 pm

Premenstrual syndrome
Relieving pms

, cut

Cuts and puncture wounds

down on any carbonated drinks (pop, beer), improve posture, very little or brief body bending or scrunching up, take a gas

Bacterial gastroenteritis
Barium enema
Blood gases
Blood gases test
Chagas disease
Culture of gastric tissue biopsy
Feeding tube insertion - gastrostomy
Gas - flatulence
Gastrectomy - series
Gastric cancer
Gastric culture

pill after every meal and before bed. AFIB episodes have cut down measurably. say 1-2 times per day. Idependently I am going through my family doctor to have the symptoms of hiatus heria checked out. I AM NOT telling my cardiologist I am doing this, nor am I telling my family doctor I think the AFIB may be related to the hernia. I am proving it myself, and living the proof. Several thing really tick me off about this whole situation: (1) I have been describing these (hernia) symptoms to doctors for the last 11 years - (2) none of them put it together or were interested in the bigger picture - (3) In all liklihood, when you connect the dots, the hernia probably caused the AFIB which in turn may have caused the heart attack - (4) I have not only experienced the trauma of a heart attack, but have undergone three probably unnecessary ablation procedures which put me at risk each time - (5) since I don't have a medical plan I am out thousands of dollars for possibly unnecessary medications which may or may not have had significant other negative side effects on my health - (6) hundreds of sleepless nights and stress - (7) countless days of recuperation, lost work and medical visits - (8) almost a complete lack of trust and confidence in traditional modern medicine and its practitioners for their close-minded mentality.

Side-note to pass along your friends who may suffer from lower back pain or sciatica - the lower back pain I have suffered for a few years now, after a few acupuncture sessions, turns out to be referred pain from the sciatic nerves. The acupuncture stripped away all the referred pain highlighting the root cause, a little muscle called the piriformus in both buttocks which had spasmed and tightened up across the sciatic nerve. Some TLC, heat, cold, acupuncture and muscle-relaxants has things almost back to normal. A massage therapist or physiotherapist also might be able to help release the spasms. Oh, and I discovered this on the internet as well. It's all connected in ways physicians can't even contemplate.

Yep sounds all too familiar.  jon, i too work out and in the past for a time was actually afraid too because I sometimes felt  a propensity to go into afib and or suffer anxiety type symptoms when exerting myself.  This never happened prior.  You brought up an interesting thing in that you notice it happens if you exercise not long after you eat and or if you bend down.  You also get it not exercising but when you've had a heavy meal.  Its never a good idea to go swimming or exercise too soon after eating a meal.  Thats because your system is busy working on digestion and requires more blood drawn into that area to do it.  Thats why you may cramp up if swimming or exercising to soon afterward.  My take on the afib part is that many of us have compromised digestive tracts possibly do to years of neglect, wrong eating, over eating, alcohal (alcohol), antibiotics or other medications etc.  This  can lead to symptoms known as IBS, gerd, colitis, bloat, reflux etc.  It doesn't stop there.  In my opinion other things can occur directly or indirectly as a result or even on their own.  I refer to sagging colon, inflamed intestines, stomach or gut or just about anything that creates a pocket of gas, inflamation (inflammation) and discomfort in an area of the digestive tract which causes an area that otherwise would have more than enough space to become more compacted which in turn causes pressure to be exerted to the abdomen, diaphram and ultimately the heart.  I think it is this your feeling particularly when you bend over which then can in turn cause the afib or arythmia.  My suggestion is to eat better for you non acidic bloat causing foods.  Eat smaller meals.  Do not exercise within an hour of eating.  Get on a good probiotic.  Pay attention to whether you may be lactose intolerant and either stay away from dairy or take lactaid.  As far as medications i generally agree with quirky2.  I saw the ablation posts.  I have known too many who have had this done with no good result and or not the one desired.  If I'm right and the afib is caused by what i said it could be caused by and the evedence seems pretty good then how are procedures such as ablation going to prevent such an occurence from happening when it is pressure induced nervous impulses or spasms?  In some cases drugs work but I gotta tell ya in my case several times the treatment and drugs used were almost as bad as the sysmptoms I sought to treat.  Good postings people!  Keep us up to date.

I saw my GP today.  I had tons of Af, then it stopped, and had it frequently throughout the day.  My GP said two possiblities.

1  Digestive.  he suggested the oesaphagus to be inflammed etc...  I disagree on the grounds that I have no digestive issues.  He then said that it could be I was low on Hydrocloric Acid, not producing enough.  Again, I disagreed, I would have symptoms would I not?

2.  Hypothyroidism.  I suffer from this but can't take the usual Thyroxine or Armour.  Besides the Afib is accompanied with severe hunger.  NO matter what I eat or how much, I am still severely hungry + Afib.  I tend to think it could be the Hypo.  Not unusual to suffer hunger pangs.  Its worse in the mornings.  It also wakes me up at night.

Any comments, much appreciated..

As for vagus nerve, yes, its involved by what I read.  Avoid ice cream and cold drinks, its known to trigger palps!!

Hi, which Ayurvedic meds did you take?  Did it help you?  

I consulted with an Ayurvedic doctor two years ago or so, but not for the Afib.  She did prescribe some compounds for the hypothyroidism, and those helped.  I stopped taking them, I could no longer metabolize, and my liver was becoming congested and inflammed.

I just read your post again.  If you are asthmatic and using inhalers, be aware that some research links heart attacks, arrythmias and SCD with those.  I read this on Drug Alert last year  or could be Heart Wire.  If I find the article, will mail it to you.  

In any case, those inhalers can alter electrical cardiac conductivity, you may want to review usage.

Me too. I am 60, female, 190 pounds, 5'7". I am on blood pressure medicine (Avapro), thyroid supplement (became hypo when I hit menopause) and Propanolol, plus occasionally Bentyl for chronic digestive problems. I first had afib with nausea 4 years ago after drinking too much wine while involved in a major tense dispute with my best friend. It resolved in the ER several hours later after IV drip and constant peeing (yes, like a racehorse!), they kept me overnight and an echocardiogram the next day showed a mitral valve prolapse. They called it mild to moderate. I was already on Propanolol to prevent the severe migraines I've had all my life, which come with a stomach pain issue along with the headaches. I am also gassy and bloated nearly every day no matter what I eat, though some foods are definite causes, like raw carrots, broccoli, beans, greasy foods and milk. Last week I had afib again ( 2 glasses of wine and extremely tense personal situation) and went to the ER, where it stopped in 5 mins after they gave me a shot. I had severe indigestion and again peed constantly for hours. THey sent me home and afib came back a few days later, with constant peeing, gas and bloating. I think I set it off myself this time by pushing on my stomach to try to relieve the gas cramps, felt an immediate response of flutter and felt my pulse, was in afib. That time it stopped on its own the next morning on the way to the ER, but I did take an extra propanolol when it started so was up to 3 a day instead of 2. All three times, I felt distinctly that my stomach was involved. When I used to go to the ER for migraines, I was told there is something called an "abdominal migraine." My gut would kill me when having a headache, and pushing on it to move things along seemed to help. THese are headaches caused by a spasm in the wall of an artery, which stretches out and collapses, affecting your circulation so you build up painful toxins among other things. I also had a vasalvagal incident where I passed out on the way to the toilet. The MDs said when you are about to have a bowel movement you get a sudden drop in blood pressure, which makes some people dizzy or pass out. This is why a lot of old people are found dead on the toilet. I think this is all related to the afib, and I totally believe the gas and bloating is connected. Not sure if it is the cause or the effect? We are on the right track here. Too bad the MDs don't seem to know any of this!!! I am working on my diet now to eliminate everything that might cause gas. I eat no fast food, all organic etc., very clean food so that is not it, but I will try to probiotics, that's a new idea. I'm now off all caffeine and alcohol. Last night I felt the flutter starting so I sat up in bed for a few hours to take pressure off the area and it never developed. YAY! SO glad I found this forum and can learn from you folks! I hope some research doctor is watching this thread because it's as good as a long-term study in my opinion.

Quirky, perhaps you exhibit no digestive problem symptoms but you did say two things which could indeed indicate a possibility of digestive problems?  #1 When you stated no matter how much you eat you still feel hungry.  Could have something to do with thyroid or other hormonal issue but it could also be simply digestion related.  I was surprised your doctor actually went along with and said it could be digestive related.  Thats rare!  If your eating and not absorbing your nutrients this could be why your never satiated.  Along with your doctors thinking about your possibly not creating enough Hydrocloric Acid try an easy experiment.  Take two tablespoons of organic apple cider vinegar with your meals.  If your deficient this should help.  If your creating too much (the reverse) then you will get indigestion.  The vinegar will act as supplental acid and also has other vital nutrients.  If your esophagus is inflamed you should also know that this to is an indicator of digestive problem and again very possible your either not creating enough acid, too much or you lay down right after eating and or have reflux at night when asleep.  Either way it can burn, irritate and inflame the esophagus.  Also get on a good multi strain probiotic.  I used to not exhibit obvious digestive problems years ago but suffered on and off with anxiety and allergies.  This was prior to afib and thinking back the symptoms while subtle were definately digestive related.  Certain foods would send me off into a tail spin,  I also remember having a nervous stomach as a kid.  We all at some point have been on antibiotics and I think they are the primary culprit in a lot of digestive woes which may not appear for years later.  Its important to make sure your digestive tract is in a good ph balanced condition by eating ph balanced foods, smaller meals spaced through out the day.  The above vinegar and probiotics can help also.  Good luck.  Keep us up to date.

Thanks Delcocat.  I am not able to apple cider vinegar, (allergies), nor can I take Bicarbonate of Soda.


Am not sure how much I can put up this.  Already have SVT, Brady, Tachy, and cardio said perhaps AFlutter, and now seems like a fib.  

The arrytmias for me, is associted with SEVERE hunger pangs, and it feels as if I am blacking out.  It used to be relieved by eating lots of lamb, then helped by eating ea protein.  Today, those attacks were very severe.  Today, I was literally passing out, despite having eaten lamb, goat cheese and buckwheat pancake home made, it was just buckwheat flour mixed with water and a little cinnamon at 5 pm.  By 10 pm, severe hunger pangs and felt as if I was passing out!!  There is no satiation no matter what.

My most recent tests for thyroid were completely normal!!!

Went to ER last Saturday.  Felt unwell, weak.  The monitor showed sudden drop from 65 bpm to 54 and would revert back to 65 bpm.  It happens for a second, and I can feel it in the chest.

Unfortunately, I did not have afib or aflutter during that time.

Meanwhile, the hunger (even though I eat) is persistent, and I feel faint, literally.  

I saw two TCM doctors.  They both said they were astonished when looking at my tongue.  According to both, it looked as if I am not eating red meats at all.  I am wondering if there is some type of metabolic disorder which means I am not metabolizing amino acids or whatever else.

Input much appreciated.

Yours sound to be some what unique problem.  The doctors can not find anything wrong?  Have you had complete blood and chemical screening profile?  Get one that tests everything including electrolytes and vitamin and mineral imballances if possible.  Are you on any medications?  If so check to see what their side effects might be?  Think of when this started?  Is there anything you changed in meds, diet etc?  Is there possibility of anxiety issues here?  If your constantly hungry you should also be checked for parasites?  Keep at it with the doctors.  If one doctor doesn't seem to be finding answers or doing right by you then get to another quickly.    

Quirky,
It sounds like you've got way more or something different in play than what the rest of us are experiencing.  IIRC the hunger sensor is on the lower side of the stomach. It is transmitted by the vagus nerve, so we do see that popping up again.

I'm sure you'll see some things that help in this thread, but keep in mind the differences that you are seeing.

Update:
I'm still doing quite well. Afib is now pretty much a memory. So this leads me to have to ask, how did having my R atria sliced open, and a bovine patch sewn into my atrial septal wall, cause such a change.

I should point out that the afib corrected over time. This could mean that as my heart healed from the surgery it also repaired the stimulus trigger. Looking at what would have happened in the healing process, The bovine patch was replaced by my own tissue. The incision to the atria healed up, perhaps some scaring as well.  I presume the pericardial sack had to be opened. that may have left it low on normal fluid, I guess it would have been closed and refilled with the normal fluid over time.

This is just some food for thought.  

Hey great news.  Glad to hear your feeling better and no more afib!  Just like quirky2 though I have to say your symptoms or what brought them on were also probably quite different than most posting her.  You went through a lot of stuff and ultimately went through a lot of procedure to luckily get were you are now.  My afib too has subsided and I know its related (as I've said so many times now) to something in my digestive tract.  If I avoid things that cause an inflamation (inflammation) or bloating I'm fine.  Lots of experimentation with myself as far as doing things via a more natural approach.  Not perfected because like you in a different way I'm still perplexed by many aspects of this.  

Hum, no, I do have lots of things wrong with me.  Neurological, mitochondria dysfunction, tachy, SVT, AF on and off:  If you go there:  http://adr-centralreactiontomedications.blogspot.com/ in case its censored google ADR-Central, and see on the right a pix, underneath, short health bio, all that from taking a prescribed antibiotic, anti-malarial and vaccine.

Anyway, as strange as it sounds, the AFib is gone (for now).  Never found out what caused it.
I really hope it stays away.  To avoid getting a heart attack, I was eating fresh home made ginger paste, and drinking lots of freshly sliced ginger in hot water with dried limes (can't tolerate the fresh ones).  I am sure this help warding off a heart attack ginger is a blood thinner.

I still get the hunger pangs, very severe, but not as often, which was all the time.

As for hypo results, I am baffled.  The last test was "normal"... but we do knokw these tests fluctuate, and there is contention amongst endocrinologists about reliablity of those tests.

I still need to eat the "lamb" or get some type of arrythmia.  I think one of the recordings last year showed SVT.  Am not taking meds, no matter what, and have no intention of doing so.  The reason I am so ill to begin with was because of prescribed meds, in any case, I can't metabolize them, my liver is fragile and had toxic hepatitis for many years.

As one posted, she did her homework and got well instead of putting on the responsibility to doctors.  After all, allopathic medicine is very limited in what it can do.  IMHO good for trauma but not much else..

I am still alive after all those years of refusing treatment, and reading what other ethical doctors are saying about the model of allopathic medicine, and theories.  I am not interested in getting more labels for my symptoms, which was caused by prescribed meds in the first place.  I am looking for solutions to heal, not cause more harm to my poor body.

If we do the research ourselves, discuss and exchange info, we are more likely to find out what is wrong with us, and choose which model of healing is most applicable.

I know personally, of many who took complete control of their own health, and recovered totally without taking toxic meds.

As for the hunger pangs, I have consulted so many experts already, to little avail.  I may or may not find out what is causing those and the arrythmia.  Living in the UK, where we have to access to social care, tests and investigations are limited.  As for parasites, will have to do tests privately.

I think that many of us are affected by the environment such as EMF, and most people don't realize it, or dismiss it.  There are several papers on PubMed published and other sources which shows it causes damage to the DNA, and for some, arrythmias.  Worth looking into that too.

O.K. then as I presumed that explains a lot.  I understand your position on meds.  Natural approach is usually the best way to go about getting and staying healthy however it can also be quite challenging. Sometimes doing certain things the natural way can get you in to trouble to so you need to read and educate yourself as much as possible.  Its particularly important when in comes to herbs, vitamins, minerals and dosages, interactions and possible side effects etc.  I don't know what to make of the lamb except to say I've actually heard this before some where.  Perhaps it has a unique make up of proteins and amino acid complexes we don't know about yet?  Perhaps it is a higher protein in your diet itself that does it for you?  What ever works - don't knock it.  Good luck and check back!      

A am a 74 year old female recently diagnosed with afib (in January this year). I had one bout today. The other was at nighttime 6 weerks ago. I take Flecanide and it gets rid of it; it took about two hours. Today it felt like I could feel my heart beat in my stomach; something was going on. I do believe gas is a Major factor. I put a little pressure on my stomach a couple of times and it felt a little better. I took a Gas X and a Dramamine while I was trying to decide what was happening. When I take my pulse I'm already nervous over the thought that it's afib; so, my anxiety is a factor in the pulse rate.(I take Wellbutrin 2x daily.) Can you tell me a pulse rate that will make me know it is an attack? I read here that putting my face in icy water, coughing, drinking baking soda and water would help. I will try those things. I take Pradaxa, I'm a diet controlled diabetic, blood pressure in check with medication, have had diverticulis bouts but surgery took care of that, so I don't eat nuts, etc. I eat mostly spinach, carrots, squashes, and chicken when I do eat meat. On occasion I'll eat a burger. I exercise 5x a week for at least one hour and am very active, so I don't tire out. I've had a stress test and it was normal so I have no restrictions along those lines. I believe I am my worst enemy when I'm beginning an afib attack.  I try to be calm but I'm too nervous about the thought that it could be afib. I just found this website tonight and it is so interesting to say the least. I would appreciate hearing if anyone else has similar experiences to mine.  Sure hope any replies don't scare me, I guess I need a pep talk if anyone can help.  I'm trying really hard to adjust to this problem.  Good health to ALL! Thanks for being there! Buckeye5742

Hi Buckeye5742.  I'm glad you came accross the site.  Hopefully you will find information through out the post that may be helpful to you.  What you describe sounds like typical afib.  Some of the meds you take double check with your pharmacist, doctor and online to see what side effects or interactions with other meds they may have if any to see if there is a correlation.  Take stock of yourself to see if anything in your life changed when you got your first episode.  Med changes, diet changes, stress changes, physiological changes ie., weight gain etc.  As for your pulse question everyone is different.  When I got my first attacks my pulse was much higher at over 160 and so was my blood pressure.  I wasn't in terrible shape but got myself back into better shape and found when I had gotten an attack the pulse was on the lower side and so was my blood pressure.  Its the discomfort afib brings that can panic you and can also raise your pulse and blood pressure so try not to panic.  Some of the things you mentioned to bring you out of afib can work on some people but not all.   If you feel gas or bloat is contributing to bringing on the afib in your case then prevention is the key.  I find dairy can be a killer for me so I tend to avoid it and if I do have dairy I will take a lactaid tablet prior.  Many foods cause gas, inflamation (inflammation) and bloat  as well. You can try beano for those or phaze out certain foods you suspect and see if that helps.  Eat smaller more frequent meals and don't eat for atleast several hours before bed.  If you do keep it a light non gas forming protein snack.  I encourage you to continue to read the posts above as there is a ton of info. Your not alone or going crazy and hope I didn't scare you with any of my input!  Keep up the good fight and check back if you have questions and if you have tried anything you feel that has brough you relief.  

Iam 84 years old and have had intermittent AFIB for 37 years. At first, the principle trigger was stress as I as in very stressful job at the onset, Eventually I wound up on medication consisting of Quinidine sulfate, inderal, and digoxin in increasing levels. After changing from my stressful job, the AFib was under control even had one year with none at all. But then I developed a hiatal hernia which propelled me into GERD and  esophageal problems and also reactivated my AFIB. I dismissed more than one cardiologist who pooh-poohed any relationship between the two problems which I couldn't abide. There was definitely a close relation between them because of the common connection to the vagus nerve. 12 years ago I had a laprioscopic fundoplication to correct the hiatal hernia, and lo and behold the AFIB went away again. But fundoplication surgery is unfortunately short lasting and after about 8  years it started  to loosen up and the AFIB gradually started to return. AS of today it is worse than it has ever been since my age makes me more susceptible. I've been intermittently in AFIB over 60 hours in this month alone the max duration has been 18 hours for one episode and the average about 3.5 hours.. Iam lobbying now to get a repair to my fundoplication, but need to have some espohageal motility tests first. My long term medication seems to be mostly ineffective now, but am afraid to try any of the newer ones like amaridion? (sp) because of the horrendous side effects. I also have controlled type 2 diabetes to worry about. I was wondering if anyone out there has tried some of the herbal treatments like Rillical with positive or negative results? Would appreciate any comments.

Thanks for your help!  This website is a godsend for me; your experiences are very valuable. And, Beano is on the top of my shopping list! I truly believe my first bout with afib was totally due to stress. Second one same, third one ---SALT!  Yep, I really think the stomach flutters I had were surely caused from too much salt. I was in a situation where I hadn't eaten for nearly 8 hours. I had exercized and was on fast forward doing some errands. Absolutely starved and STUPID; there was a tube of chips in the car, so I snarfed many of them down. Within the hour I had the flip flops in my stomah (they didn't last long, maybe 10 minutes).  Anyone else have a "salt" experience? So, little by little I'm learning the hard way but these posts are  teaching me positive steps and what not to do!  My pulse rate in the episodes is usually around 120...I had gone seven weeks without a spell untilI ate the chips! I have suggested that my husband NOT purchased anymore chips! I'll leave crackers in the car instead. I am absolutely my own worst enemy! I am very grateful to have found this website and feel I have a nice, new group of friends. My best to all.

Watch the over exertion and going without eating quality food for that long.  I know you mentioned your diabetic so not good.  The exertion (sweating?) can throw you into a weakened state and perhaps throw your electrolytes out of balance.  The chips is interesting.  I don't know what kind of chips they were?  I actually had similar episode but these were baked potatoe chips and I think it was an additive I was sensitive too in them.  Speaking of - another tip - stay away from artificial sweetners in particualr aspartame also known as nutrasweet.  Also MSG.  These are exitotoxins and can cause many nasty side effects.  Glad your getting a lot from the site.  Keep reading!  

Thanks, thanks, thanks for all the tips; they're a huge help!  I checked the ingredients in the chips I ate discounting the salt. I was amazed at all the additives in those chips, The one that caught my eye first was the MSG. I realize I have been laxed in not checking ingredients but that will definitely change. Just one more thing. If you know anything about Zocor causing afib I'd appreciate hearing about it. Thanks again for all your help. (I'll make every effort to avoid making these questions on a daily basis).

Just wanted to add that I was prescribed something called Omeprazole that has worked to completely stop any GERD or vagus nerve issues, totally quieted everything down.  I've been taking 20 mg once in the morning.  Might be worth a try.

No problem buckeye5742, glad to assist.  As for the Zocor - i know little to nothing about it or its side effects.  Check with the pharmacist and look it up online for more information.  As for Linda thanks for the tip - it may be helpful to some.  I don't know a lot about Omeprazole but what i know of it is that it often is used in conjunction with other meds (usually antibiotics) to erradicate h.pylori bacteria usually in relation to ulcers and other digestive tract related issues.  I know there have been some successes with some on this regimen but also many others who end up with the problem coming back sometimes worse than before.  Remember that with this or any other medications lies good chance they are robbing you of certain vitamins, minerals or gut friendly bacteria.  Check with doc, pharmacist etc to see if supplementing might be in order.  I say probiotics for sure!  Good luck.  

Thank you for your comment. Omneprozole is the generic name for Prilosec which I have tried in the past, but it isn't as effective as Nexium which Iam taking now at a 40mg level for GERD. It certainly is a lot less expensive however--a factor of about 10 to 1.

Hey, I just wanted to add...I had taken over the counter Prilosec and it didn't help. I do know that now Omeprazole is offered OTC as well.  My Dr had to prescribe what I'm taking.  I don't know what the difference is...I just know it works really well.

I had to have ASD surgery in 2005, came out of surgery in Afib and stayed in it for several weeks. Had cardioversion and it worked, they sent me home and I was back in one day. I'm on medications to slow my heart, to thin my blood etc. I have noticed that every episode (about once a week) I have some serious acid indigestion going on before it starts. I take Ranidine about 3 times a day now, none of the other stuff out there helps me with the acid problem. Cutting into my heart caused this ongoing problem for me, I'm wondering if some doctor somewhere couldn't by the same measure stop this electrcal malfuction.

It always occurs at night for me. Wakes me up doing cartwheels in my chest. I have also noticed that I'm having severe acid indigestion. I was blaming Tums for triggering it, but after reading all this, it was the gas that triggered it, the Tums was a by product of my treating midnight heartburn.

If you haven't tried going to the bathroom and straining like you have to have a bowel momvement, try it. It stops the heart briefly when you strain and will sometimes put your heart back into a normal rythm. This advice was given me in the ICU at my local hospital while I was in for the a-fib. If your like me you'll forget to try it sometimes, and the times I remembered, it didn't work for me. They told me that Elvis didn't actually die from the overdose, he died from straining to have a bowel movement, which stopped his heart. You have the vagus nerve in your rectum also.

Oh I'm so distressed to hear your on amiodirone. That medcine almost killed me. I could barely walk, all my joints hurt and it left me with permnant pulminary hypertension. It kept me from having the atrilfib, but did much damage to the rest of my body. I hope you don't experience any of this, but from what one dr told me, it does damage to everyone who takes it and you need only be on it a couple months for it to.

is it safe to do omega's while on warfarin?

merimary11, if you are seriously looking for an excellent EP, go to Austin and get an appt with Dr. Andre Natale....he is the best.

As far as I know, omega 3's are fine to take with Warfarin...I take them.

yes I had a repeat AF attack  about a week after an Ablation.  It lasted for about 7 hours.  I am about to see the Cardiologist who did the Ablation.  I'll be interested to see what he says.  Along with other people who are contributing to this thread, I also experience really bad pain in the breast bone sometimes coinciding with the AF attack.  It isn't always relieved by antacid powders but they can help.  Neither is it constant or regular.  I can go weeks without experiencing any pain then I have a month of quite bad pain irregularly.  Our bodies are wonferful organisms but sometimes they do some weird things.

My story is pretty much typical of everyone else here

I had my first afib back in the 80's when I was in my early 30's – I must confess that I did not have a particularly good diet in those days and was under a lot of work related stress and then one night, out of the blue, I got it and it lasted a couple of hours before I drove myself to the hospital – they monitored me for a few hours and were about to convert me but I returned into sinus rhythm – I later underwent a battery of tests but everything was fine and I was prescribed a low dose of ativan and propranolol

That was the one and only time I had an episode up until a couple of years ago when I started having them again – once again, I found myself in a stressful situation and with stomach issues. Several years earlier, in the 90's, I had a duodenal ulcer with H Pylori and went on the standard treatment regimen which worked and healed the ulcer so I was no longer required to remain on any meds and my stomach was fine

But then a few years ago, I was having stomach issues that were more gas and bloating rather than ulcer like – over the past couple of years, I have had 1/2 a dozen attacks, none of which have lasted more than 2 hours at most and all of which have converted back on their own – I remain on the ativan and propranolol and following a recent episode last week, am now scheduled to see a cardiologist and rhythm control cardio specialist.

In the meantime, I had had an echocardiogram, stress test and ecg and all were normal – I am now 57, retired, in good shape, with a good diet but do smoke half a pack of cigarettes a day.

About 6 months ago, in connection with the gas and bloating issues, I was put on proton pump inhibitors – I had gone to the doctor not really for the stomach issues which I considered more a nuisance than anything else but because of the apparent (to me anyway) connection between the stomach and the episodes of afib – without exception, every afib episode I have had has been preceded by severe gas and bloating such that I almost know an afib attack is going to take place. In addition, there are always several days before an episode when I start getting lots of extra beats.

There is a definite pattern to all of this and even my GP agreed that there was a connection between the  afib and gastro issues.

While on the PPI, I had no afib attacks and felt that things were getting better so I actually went off the PPI'S as I did not like the idea of remaining on this medication indefinitely – about 2 weeks after stopping the PPI'S,  I had another afib attack. So I immediately went back onto Zantac as it was my experience that the Zantac worked just as well and had fewer side effects as well as fewer long term risks compared to the PPI'S.

During the course of all the investigations and exams, my cardiologist agreed without hesitation that gastro issues are related to afib – in particular, he cited statistics indicating that 40 % of people with afib have gastro problems, most notably of the gerd variety. He also indicated that gerd patients can be only mildly symptomatic and not even aware they have it as many people apparently associate gerd with upper gi distress and burning etc while gas and bloat problems can also be related – as a sideline, my GP also speculated that I might have IBS rather than gerd but IBS cannot be medically document and the gerd, if in fact I have it, has not advanced far enough to be detectable beyond the symptom description.

But both the GP and cardiologist readily agreed with the association between gastro issues and afib as well as regular stress.

It would appear also that in paroxysmal afib, especially of the every 6 months variety, stress builds up and accumulates ultimately increasing the odds of an afib attack, especially in situations where there are increased gastro problems.

I have also recently started seeing a naturopathic  doctor who attributes the problem to a build up of stressors in the center of the body that results in nothing more than a spasm of the heart – his recommendation – relaxation and yoga type exercises with a heavy emphasis on breathing – I have been following this treatment and have found it extremely beneficial in terms of relaxation. He also stressed the importance of a good diet rich in as many natural foods as possible.

For me, I find trigger foods to be sharp spices and fried foods. I usually have a glass of 2 of wine daily and have not found that to be a problem.

Most of my attacks occur late at night and I have been informed that that may be related to the simple fact our bodies produce more adrenaline in the late evening hours and once again, we see the connection between stress and afib.

There are now many links from recognized sources on the web documenting the association between gerd or acid related disorders and afib

This link is to an article I recently came across and it's pretty self explanatory.
http://www.gastroscan.ru/gerb/gerson01.pdf

Another article relating gerd and afib can be found here
http://www.mgwater.com/laf.shtml

The above article also looks into the related issue of magnesium deficiency – that is something I have recently begun supplementing with.

I also found this site to be of assistance and again, note how many people have dealt with the afib by dealing with the gerd or acid suppresion

http://www.afibbers.org/faq.htm#laf

All in all, a very frustrating condition and one which many Doctors seem to treat rather lightly as if they were talking about someone with a headache – many seem oblivious to the discomfort and stress that accompany having to live with this condition

In any case, that's my story to date – next week I see the cardiologist for follow up after my recent attack then the following week, I see the rhythm control expert – perhaps after all these years, I may get rhythm and learn to dance!

I will let everyone know once I complete the follow up treatments!

Is anyone taking Pradaxa that has used Zicam Nasal Swabs? I believe in Zicam and have had no problems in the past. I believe I am beginning with a cold and really want to try to head it off...(Ive been up half the night with sneezing, watery eyes and tickling nose). No drugstores open yet! Anyone with an answer? I have tried all the ways I know over the Internet to find out if the two are compatible. I didn't find  what I needed. I hope to hear from someone. Thank you..

There are some FDA actions in connection with Zicam - check the link - most recently, some products were ordered pulled from store shelves under an FDA issue mandate - while there are always 2 sides to every story and I have not found the FDA to be historically correct in everything they do, I would certainly not want to take something that is currently under such a cloud - perhaps the controversy will be resolved?

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/31388177/ns/health-cold_and_flu/t/nasal-spray-can-cause-loss-smell-fda-warns/#.TqLMw3Iep70

I had my follow up assessment with my cardiologist and nothing remarkable to report - diagnosis of Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation and no indication of any heart disease - blood pressure is 120/80, stress test and electrocardiograph all normal - I am advised that the influence of the vagus nerve is strongly associated with this form of fibrillation and related to this are certain triggers that can differ from person to person but include gerd or digestive problems, over eating, excessive alcohol consumption, caffeine, etc - it is commonly seen in athletes including marathon runners who have low resting heart rates -- it sometimes but does not always develop into persistent or permanent atrial fibrillation - in my case, the only treatment suggested was standard aspirin therapy based on my stroke risk scale which was 0 on the 0-5 scale - I am also taking a proton pump inhibitor to deal with a mild case of gerd - I exercise regularly and consider myself in good shape with excellent blood readings and yet have still fallen victim to this malady which is poorly understood by many in the medical community - no follow up treatment has been planned other than a check up in a year!

I am having the same problem when food starts to digest..vagus nerve takes over my body just for a gew seconds and keeps happening at intervals foe at leasr 45minutes and if I am sstandinf I collapse to the floor
Am working with my Dr. now to check this out by taking my pulse at the time of the event to prove this is the Afib causing it.

Just wanted to throw my hat into the ring as well. I have had very stressful life-changing events that most-likely contributed to my current condition. In October 2010 I underwent an upper and lower GI. Lower was clean. Upper showed a 2cm Hiatal Hernia. Was prescribed the same meds everyone else was (PPIs - prilosec, nexium, etc...). They initially made me feel better but overall made me feel worse and still searching for an answer. Over the summer I began to have some troubles with sleeping and experienced episodes of lightheadedness and potentially A-Fib. I stumbled onto a probiotic from a company called Digestive Advantage. Their Gas Defense Formula Probiotic seems to make a difference for me. Some days are better than others but the intensity of my A-Fib episodes are reduced when I am using this product. Diet, exercise, stress all play a role in how most of my days go but being more conscious of my body's needs with help from this board has definitely changed my perception for the long-term prognosis of our condition. I wish everyone here the best in their endeavors to combat the disorder(s) they have that are creating the misery that we are all experiencing. If anyone here with Hiatal Hernia surgery experience could share there triumphs and tribulations pre and post-surgery would be a great help in deciding how much the procedure may help with A-Fib episodes.   --JF

Hello, Wow! I am not alone. So glad I found this forum. I am female 39,
5' 1" and 115 pounds. I have pretty much always had bowel problems but starting about two years ago I started having a "fluttering" feeling, (When I take my pulse it feels like it skips a beat then picks back up.) The flutter has made a home because I have it everyday..sometimes a few times every few minutes or so and sometines 7-10 a minute. The first time it happen I went to the ER. They told me it was anemia. Well after my anemia was correted it DID NOT go away. I have always noticed it is worse when eating and when my bowels are acting up. I have picked up some food allergies and have problems digesting food..without being graphic, when I eat withen a few hours I can have a bowel movement and tell what I have eaten last. These past few years I have tried to diagnose myself because all of the doc's I have been to tell me the heart issue is from stress and that I look healthy so I must be okay. Very frustrating. Because I have felt so SICKLY with bowels, heart, dizzy, extreme fatique Ect. So by doing a lot of reading I cut out gluten, choc. tea's any stimulants ect. but still no relief. Out of frustration I decided to see yet another Doc.. a Heart specialist at St. Lukes Houston. He is so bumfuzzled that I have so many arrythmias and my heart is in great shape. He put me on beta blockers that lessend them a little for about a week but are back the same as before. I insisted to the Doc that there has to be a link between food/bowel and heart and of coarse he thinks im ridiculous. Do any of you feel unhealthy "sickly" ?   Again Thanks for everyones posts.

Just like myself and many others food is a contributing factor but its the underlying inflamation (inflammation) in the digestive tract that ultimately causes the misery I suspect.  It can't handle the food in a way that its naturally suposed to.  Sure signs of this are symptoms of ibs, reflux, bloating from gas etc.  Some people don't experience any symptoms or equate certain symptoms they may be having with the other problems.  A lot goes on in our digestive tract and a lot of things can go wrong and be causing the problem.  Its isolating the problem and finding what works thats the challenge especially since every ones problem can be unique to themselves.  Eating and combining foods that are both healthy and non acid forming is a big help to heal.  Fiber rich foods like raw fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds are good.  Eating less per meal helps.  Obviously stress itself is a real big unsuspecting cause of many problems but one that really can throw the digestive tract, heart and other systems in the body into a tail spin.  Bizzarre as it may sound to some theres always a possibility in your case that parasites, over growth of bad bacteria can be causative factors.  There are tests for this and easy natural approaches and ways to fix this as well.  Welcome and keep reading the above posts.  Search the net and ask lots of questions.  Plenty of good info.    

I ate salad made with red redish,  green onion, tomato and my heart went into flip flop flip flop for like 15 seconds. That got my attension, i became anxious right after this episode what it could be from is me eating late at night and onions would be the reason. I find if i eat onions, cucumbers it does it too. I became so anxious and drank some water and chamomile tea and so far im good but it did scare me. So i will not eat onions or cucumbers or red redish again. And i will do complete cleanse with colonics and eat lightly after.

Hi! Gavriella_M, My name is Marina & I just wanted to tell you about my experience if it would help in anyway. I was diagnosed with AFib in 1996 & had a Cather Ablation in January, 2010. I have always noticed that foods are a trigger for AFib. Certain one by themselves & some in combination. Sugar, Chocolate, Caffeine, eating late @ night or too close before going to bed. I can't eat tomatoes either & you mentioned eating tomatoes. They are very acidic & depending on what's going on in your intestinal tract will cause that Vagus Nerve to Party Hardy @ your expense. You may want to consider backing up off of the tomatoes as well. Just a thought. When I notice I'm having heartburn or Gerd I buy Alkaline water & drink that for a spell & it calms my stomach down. May be it balances the acidity. I'm not sure. There are several companies that make it. I drink Eternal Water. I've tried several form the store. Everything has it's pro's & cons. Some people will say it doesn't work but I try things & if I notice a difference then I go with it because it can't hurt. I can't eat peppers. They come back afterwards. It seems there is so much I ca't eat anymore. It's frustrating & it makes me depressed at times but not having another episode outweighs the frustration. I'm in my late 50's so I have to be extremely disciplined & cautious with everything I eat. I avoid going out sometimes to friends functions where there is food because no one understands & I don't like having to explain & they don't believe me, think I'm being a drama queen but no one who has not had an AFib episode for hours or even days will understand what AFibers go through. It's Frightening to say the least. I hope this helps & if you have any other questions about my experience you can email me @ ***@****. Peace & Good Health for you in '2012...

Hi Buckeye5742 and whoever else this may help.... This is my first time reading the comments on this site!  I can totally relate and you are not alone and it does help to have a support system and to talk to other people who may be going through the same thing.  I chuckled when I read your post saying you are your own worst enemy because of getting nervous.  I too have felt this and now I just go with it because I don't want to give myself a heart attack :)  Matter of fact, I am doing more research because I have been skipping all day today and thought I was done with it for good.
Here's my story....December 6th I finally went to the ER after having what they call fluttering.  I have had PVC's (premature ventricular contractions) on and off for the last 10 years.  My Mom has them and so does my daughter and an aunt.  Well it all started with heartburn for two days and lots of gas.  Then the skipping and then fluttering.  I just thought my PVC's were getting worse.  After five days of the fluttering on and off, chest heaviness, heartburn and gas, and shortness of breath, I decided I better have it checked it out.  On my way to the hospital the fluttering was getting worse.  They did an EKG and said something about A-FIB.  I was kept overnight for observation and during my stay, the fluttering got so bad and my heart started racing.  It was picked up on the heart monitor and they did another EKG which reflected definite A-FIB.  They gave me Cardizem via the IV and my rhythm became normal after only 5 minutes! The fluttering was gone and I felt like nothing had ever happened!  Had a stress test and an echo and those tests were fine.  They checked thyroid and that was normal.  I am on oral dose of 180mg. of Cardizem daily which seems to help.  I was put on a heart monitor for 30 days and they did detect Premature Atrial Contractions.  Guess I am going to have to deal with it for the rest of my life.  I am really trying to get healthy.  I have always ate natural and organic foods.  I am overweight by about 60 pounds (quit smoking 4 years ago and gained some weight), now have Type 2 Diabetes which is diet controlled.  Have had high blood pressure for 6 years which is controlled by meds.  They want to check me for Sleep Apnea for a mild disorder.  Experts have found a correlation between A-Fib and thyroid issues, Diabetes, Sleep Apnea and High Blood Pressure.  I was extremely scared when this all started happening to me.  I have been on a Eat-Clean Diet by Tosca Reno since last Feb. and have lost 15 lbs.  I don't drink soda only water and have decaf coffee or tea.  I think eating some dark chocolate contributed to my skipping today because of the caffeine.  It is so frustrating to say the least!  I am also thinking that there may be some correlation between hormone imbalances and A-FIB.  I do believe it is great to research and gather as much information as possible.  I do have a great primary doctor now.  He put me on Prilosec which does help with all the gas.  He thinks I may have Gert as well.  He said the skipping/fluttering could happen because of the gas build-up can put an upward pressure towards the heart. Makes sense to me!  I also wanted to add that anyone who drinks alcohol should try to stop if you have A-Fib.  The night before I went into the ER I had 3 ultra light beers and they said alcohol can have an effect.  I only used to drink about 3-4 beers a week. Now  I don't drink any.  I also am going to try to eliminate dairy from diet to see if that helps with the gas.  Thank you everyone for posting comments.  It really helps!  Good health and blessings! Kathy

I have been following this forum for some time and it contains a lot of information that relates to my situation with atrial fibrillation (afib) triggered by upper GI gas.

I am a 71-year-old male who was diagnosed with paroxysmal afib 14 years ago.  I tried to convince the cardiologist who made that diagnosis that it was connected to my digestive tract, but he insisted that there was no connection.  The cardiologist prescribed Toprol (Metoprolol) and Coumadin (Warfarin). I have since learned that it is not uncommon for afib to be triggered by problems with the digestive tract.  My current cardiologist and electrophysiologist (ep doc) acknowledge that they have seen a number of patients with afib that is triggered by upper GI gas or bloat.  

My frequent upper GI gas is most likely being caused by a hiatal hernia. The presence of a hiatal hernia was determined by an endoscopy.   I take a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) daily and try to avoid foods and beverages that cause upper GI gas.  However, I still get a lot of gas, and gas is the trigger of over 90 % of my afib events.

SIMETHICONE  -  In addition of avoiding certain foods and beverages that cause upper GI gas, I have determined that taking products containing simethicone very quickly at the onset of the gas can stop my afib from being triggered.  I use the following three products that contain simethicone: 1) Mylanta that contains 80mg of simethicone per tablespoon; 2) Gas-X tablets that contain 125mg of simethicone per tablet; and 3) Phazyme softgel capsules that contain 180mg of simethicone per capsule.  I find that taking about 4 or 5 tablespoons of Mylanta very quickly is effective at reducing the gas.  When I am not at home, I chew and swallow 3 or 4 Gas-X tables very quickly and this is fairly effective at reducing the gas.  Swallowing 2 or 3 Phazyme capsules is effective but it takes a lot longer to reduce the gas compared to either Mylanta or Gas-X.  A cheaper alternative to Mylanta is Equate Maximum Strength Antacid (sold at Walmart) that contains 80mg of simethicone per tablespoon.  A cheaper alternative to Gas-X is Equate Extra Strength Gas Relief (sold at Walmart) that contains 125mg of simethicone per tablet.

ANTIARRHYTHMIC DRUGS  -   After taking Toprol for a few years, I started getting more afib events and I was prescribed Rythmol (Propafenone).  Rythmol was fairly effective in reducing my afib events for a few years and then the afib events started increasing, and eventually the Rythmol became proarrhythmic.  Then, I was prescribed Pacerone (Amiodarone).  Pacerone was fairly effective in reducing my afib events, but it eventually caused hyperthyroidism. It took several months to cure the hyperthyroidism.  This turned out to be one of the worst periods of my life because the hyperthyroidism caused insomnia for several months.  Insomnia is a terrible condition to live with.  I have extreme sympathy for anyone living with insomnia.  After my bad experience with Pacerone, I was prescribed Betapace (Sotalol).  This required a 3-day stay in the hospital to determine the correct dosage.  Betapace made me feel like a zombie.  I walked around on the verge of fainting all the time.  When the FDA finally approved Multaq (Dronedarone), I was prescribed this drug as an alternative to Betapace.  Multaq has been somewhat of a disappointment to me.  It doesn't seem to be that effective in reducing afib events.  My ep doc has talked to me about Tikosyn, but I am reluctant to try it after reading about some of the problems that people have had with the drug.  Like Sotalol, Tikosyn must be started in a hospital, and that immediately raises a red flag to me.  If a drug is that risky, do I need it?  

ABLATIONS  -  I have had 2 Pulmonary Vein Isolation (PVI) ablations.  Both of these PVI ablations were unsuccessful.  My ep doc has discussed trying another ablation, but I think I will pass on it.  After having no improvement with two procedures, I am reluctant to try it again.  

PACEMAKER  -  When I was recovering from my second ablation in the cardiac telemetry ward in the hospital, I experienced an eye-opening event.  Following the ablation I was going in and out of afib.  It is my understanding that this is not unusual following an ablation procedure.  Well, in the early morning following the ablation procedure I was in afib and I was awake.  All of a sudden, a couple of nurses came running down the hall and into my room with a defibrillator.  They were about to give me a jolt when they realized that I was in normal sinus rhythm (NSR), and I asked them what was going on.  They said my heart had stopped for about 10 seconds during the conversion from afib to NSR.  They decided to put a couple of patches (electrodes) on my chest just in case it happened again.  Well, it didn't happen again.  This event was recorded on the telemetry equipment and a few hours later when my ep doc visited me, he told me that I needed a pacemaker because one of these days my heart may not restart.  The type of pacemaker that the ep doc implanted is the type that is given to patients with bradycardia (very slow heartbeats).  When the pacemaker sees a very long interval after a beat, it applies a pulse that causes a beat.  So, during the conversion from afib to NSR when I have one of these long intervals without a heartbeat, the pacemaker pulses and causes a beat.  In addition to the protection that I get during the conversion from afib to NSR, the pacemaker has made a big difference in making an afib event much more tolerable because it pulses when there are long intervals between beats. I just don't feel as washed out with the pacemaker when I have afib compared to afib without the pacemaker.  I have found the pacemaker to be my greatest asset in dealing with afib.  Having a pacemaker is not intrusive at all and after a while, you don't even realize you have had one implanted.

BLOOD THINNERS  -  I have been on Warfarin for 14 years and I don't feel that it has caused any great burden to my life.  A lot of people have issues with bruising and bleeding when taking Warfarin, but I haven't found it be the case with me.  The only issues that I have with Warfarin is the periodic blood tests and the requirement to reduce the International Normalized Ratio (INR) when having a surgical procedure and then getting the INR back within a desired range after the procedure.  I have decided to defer changing to Pradaxa (new blood thinning drug that does not require periodic blood tests) until more is learned about the long-term effects of the drug.

CONCLUSION  -  I have found that paroxysmal afib is something that a person can live with even though it presents some inconveniences to your life.  My advice to anyone dealing with afib is to become informed.  Read a lot of information provided by professionals and, in particular, read about the experiences of people afflicted with afib.  There is a wealth of information on the internet about afib; just do enough research to separate fact from fiction.  Seek out a good cardiologist and/or ep doc.  If you are unhappy with a doctor because they are in too much of a hurry to push you out the door, or you believe they are not giving you good advice, move on to another one.

Its been at least a few weeks since I've signed on.  Wow, more great post!  Iceberg thanks for the info and break down.  While I do not believe many healthy individuals need take the routes you have had to endure its certainly welcome information.  I never want to say for example ablations don't work since everyone is unique and its between God, them, their doctor and a choice they ultimately will have to make especially since it is an obvious and easy go to option that many doctors fall back on when afib is present and being caused for reasons unknown.  For me my personal thought is that its burning heart tissue (I don't think that's very good) and its a crap shoot that often can make things worse.  I'm not a doctor but I can say these things from the experience of knowing a few people that have had it done (all unsuccessfully).  The hiatal hernia is a good point and definitely contribute to afib symptoms.  Worth looking into if your a person suffering with afib with no other apparent medical cause.  The medications can have application but as you pointed out their effectiveness can vary greatly and the side effects can be horrendous.  My school of thought on drugs is that the only side effect worth mentioning is the side effect of whether they'll actually work and give relief for a particular prescribed condition.  Yea I know doctors might get mad at me if they read this but I don't care.  The FDA & medical community wants us all to believe that making changes to our eating habit's, taking a more active holistic approach and using what God and nature gave us and intended for us that its often thought of quackery or unconventional, etc.  In my view its just the opposite.  Like I said medications have their practical applications.  Example: someone perhaps that has abused themselves for years knowingly and or unknowingly to such an extent what seems out of the blue there are blood clots that formed making a heart attack or stroke imminent then I say use the blood thinning clot busting drugs to circumvent the problem.  Don't hand them out like candy to individuals that are obviously healthy only because its the easy thing to do.  Look into it and look into from every angle.  When something medically cannot be found go into the persons life style and eating habit's etc., that may be contributing if not causing the symptoms.  We have to take responsibility for ourselves and become informed and aware of what we're doing to ourselves on a daily basis and that the discipline of certain life style changes can mean the world of difference.  Its troubling that on top of all our own abuses there are other more insidious things going on that contribute without our even knowing.  For example much of our food supply has been grossly prepared and contaminated by unscrupulous manufacturing practices.  We now face a big problem with GMO (genetically modified foods) and these have all proven to cause all sorts of illnesses or symptoms of illness and disease including digestive tract problems like ibs and leaky gut.  That's on top of all the other dyes, preservatives and chemicals that go into them not to mention the packaging.  Our water supply has been intentionally and non intentionally contaminated with chemical pollutants such as fluoride which they all tried (pretty successfully I may ad) to convince us that its good for us and because we as a society have become so chemically and drug dependent that many drugs have now found their way into our water supplies both from run off and even urine of people which water plants are not capable of handling or filtering out.  Then ad the every day stresses of life and it all ads up to a mess.  People wonder why diseases like autism or MS is becoming so prevalent in our society where it was almost unheard of many years ago?  I went on a ramble here but if no one believes that afib for many can be caused by such things as inflammation, acid over load, toxins, increase of bacteria, parasites, viruses from the above and abuses to our digestive tract and bodies then they are sadly mistaken.  For many unfortunately there are no symptoms until the body has become so over whelmed that it ultimately can come down to what seems to be no other alternative or options for them like medicines and surgeries and more misery.  Sad.  Sorry for the rant but again thanks everyone for your insights, information and sharing your experiences.  People do read and benefit from them.  You made the blog all the richer for your contribution.  -Rich-

go to    theonlineconference.com   I found alot of help  there. listen to the 1-10 video's.

I agree wholeheartedly. Up until Dec.1st. I pretty much felt like a normal person despite having had a pancreas transplant in 2006. I ate some ham from Aldi's and within 5 minutes started having a hot burning rash on my face and thought I was going to burn up. I have since become allergic to nitrates, and msg. Never had much of a problem before. I have a rise in blood pressures and heart rates after eating. I have been living off of rice products and instant mashed potatoes. I get a burning tongue every so often after touching my neck of all things. I have to have a fine needle aspiration to check a thyroid nodule on friday. I've had just about every test imagineable with all the same replies. "We don't know" Thanks to this website I at least don't feel alone anymore. I even had a reaction to calcium chloride in a can of snap peas which I've eaten my whole life. It all started dec. 1st after that ham. All sorts of allergy tests says I'm not allergic to anything. But had a bad reaction to chicken gravy from the jar, has MSG in it. Wish I lived in australia where it's illegal to have MSG in a product. It ***** to have a burning face all the time. I tried some brocolli today and I've been burning ever since even though I took claritin, now I feel like I'm starving to death. Geez, such hell. Thanks again for the website. Linda

Found out I had a toxic thyroid with cancer. Suffered from it for 4 years. It wasn't food allergies but histamine inflammation in the thyroid.

Hi! I hope some of my information will be of some help to someone. As we all have different systems, DNA, etc I realize some things work for some people & others no. Such as the OTC for Digestive issues. I had a Catheter Ablation in January of 2010. It took a few months before I was AFib free but that's another story I won't explain right now as I want to tell you about having Afib again beginning more frequently since Sept, 2011. Prior to that I had an AFib episode once or twice but I caused it by drinking alcohol which I can not do any more so I've quit altogether. If I'm invited out & a friend/friends say "would you like a drink"? I say, "No, I don't drink" & I don't feel pressure anymore about saying that. AFib episodes versus a Drink well I did the math & I Like feeling Good. I'm a Better person when I do. So here recently I've had a few episodes & as many of you have mentioned the digestive issues perhaps being the root of the issue then the ❤ itself I have found the same in my own experiences. Some of you may be aware of "Candida Albicans". http://www.holistichelp.net/candida-albicans.html  I don't have enough time to explain it but I'll post links so you can research & gather your own information as you read about it. THere is a test called the "SPIT TEST." Sounds gross but check out the link & how to do it. http://www.adhdrelief.com/CandidaTest.html  Ok! I just want you to know this is my experience. I'm not suggesting you all have Candida Albicans but it's possible some may. The diet is very restrictive but that versus feeling miserable & quite possibly having digestive disorders that can trigger AFib episodes? So I am lactose intolerant & when I had CA really bad a few months ago I stopped eating the slightest bit of cheese. Not even soy cheese. I also take Armour Thyroid for Hypothyroidism but that the extent of my meds. I experimented & I take Enzymes before I eat. THe name of the product I take is called Garden of Life "MEGA-ZYME. Here's a link just for your reference. I'm not trying to sell the product. Just so you know what it looks like in the store should you wish to try it. http://pureformulas.com/megazyme-original-100-tablets-by-enzymatic-therapy.html & I take a Probiotic before I go to bed @ night. Before when I had prescription meds the Dr. would prescribe Prevacid to take one in the am & one in the pm so I figured I would follow the same way the Dr. said to take it as it seems when you get older (I'm late 50's) what you do during the day waits to attack you during the night. I have terrible gas issues (that's why I can't get a date) :D. No seriously, between belching & flatulence I am the Queen if there were a contest but since taking the CA test which by the way I've had before in other times in my life, I had it really bad & I'm doing much better. I have to watch what I eat because food, alcohol & carbonated drinks will send me there. So I'm thinking & feeling if I'm careful about what I put in my stomach I basically can control not having AFib episodes. I had one, well I think I had one because this was more of a Vagal Nerve Episode that spasmed for 12 hours. It was different than an AFib episode in that my ❤ wasn't as effected but nonetheless left me in bed & having to stay @ a friends house until it passed because it wears & drains me so bad I can't get up or I get dizzy. The reason why this happened was because we were hangin' out the night before until 2am & there was a Truck outside the club selling New Orleans style Gumbo. My friend bought 2 containers. We went back t her house & she started eating it. I was famished. I know better than eat after 7pm but I tasted some of the sausage inside the gumbo. I thought I could handle it but it was spicy & set me off. It wasn't immediate. I fell asleep & about 5:30am I woke up right out of my sleep into Spasm mode for 12 hours. So what I'm saying is we all have the same common denominator in our analysis of digestion issues possibly playing a large role in the issues with AFib. I told my Dr. what was happening with my stomach & as someone said earlier in their posts when you mention digestive complaints possible having some correlation with Afib it falls on deaf ears. Drs. are specific in what they went to school to study but take them out of that square & they tell you "You need to see a Gastrointestinal Dr." They won't answer any other question regarding any other physical issue you may be having. I always say, "It's one body & everything works together." SOmeone mentioned smaller meals. Yes! I do that & it is definitely one of the ways to get things under control as far as digestion. Overeating is a big trigger for AFib. Definitely do Probiotics & look into ENzymes before you eat a meal. They don't have to be the one's I mentioned. Follow your own intuition for you body & listen to your body. It will signal you to pay attention. Something you already know. I'm just reaffirming. I also have Enzymes I take after a meal if I forget to take them before. They're a Vitamin Shoppe Brand called 'MULTI ENZYME." They are strictly for after you eat. The directions say & the other one's the directions say before a meal. I keep myself armed with these & take them with me if I'm eating out. Ok! I hope this helps someone. Take the "Spit Test." You can do it @ home & it's easy. Read up on "Candida Albicans" & just see. It can't hurt. It could help. God Bless & Happy Health ForEver to ALL of you...Peace! :)

More great info.  I already was under the belief that candida (yeast and fungus) could definately give us a hard time when present.  Its not easy to get rid of or get under control either but there are some natural products that usually do the trick.  Caprylic acid, grapefruit seed extract, cloves, crushed frsh garlic (about two teaspoons in warm water) etc.  The tough part about candida is that it is smart and adapts pretty quickly to what you throw at it making it resistant.  The best way is to cycle 4 days with one product then switch to another for 4 days and then another.  Usually milder cases can be cleared up in a week.  Initially you'll have some die off symptoms like headaches and almost flu like symptoms particularly if its a worse case but the relief afterwards is pretty noticeable.  Bloat is a key indicator you may have a candida problem.  Also supplement with enymes and probiotics as was mentione as these also help fight the candida and keep it in check.  Good info.  Keep em coming.

No symptoms? Having A fib is a symptom. Digestive issues do not just announce themselves. Symptoms in the digestive tract are very mild. You could have leaky gut as I do, you could have low digestive enzymes, parasites, and low acid like I do and have A fib all day and all night every day like I do and believe me the only possible source is digestion. Address the yeast, the parasites, the acid, the leaky gut and eventually it will change. I am currently treating myself with whole aloe leaf and it is stating to show I had severe digestive issues even though I had no symptoms other than the constant Afib.