Chest pain following ablation

Hi all.  I had an ablation 4 weeks ago and since that time I have been experiencing chest tightness, pressure, and sharp pains in the heart.  I am seeing my doctor on a weekly basis to determine the cause and undergo treatment.  Following a work up of tests (echo, nuclear stress, ekg, etc.) the doctor has determined that everything in the heart is normal and that this "discomfort may be something that I just have to ride out." I never experienced these problems before the procedure and had an ablation due to SVT.  My question is - has anyone had similar experiences following an ablation procedure?  If so what were your symptoms, how long did the discomfort last, and what type of treatment did you undergo?  I am a helthy 29 year old that had been exercising regularly before the procedure.  Since then I have not been able to do so because of the pain.  I just want to feel "normal" again.  Thank you for your response!

[mariop]

I had an ablation on feb 16 and I did not experience anything like you have.  My heart rate went up about 20 points and it lasted about 2 weeks.  My blood pressure went up sky high for about 2 weeks.  And I felt an irritation in the chest.  I had 23 burns and I would say my heart healed within 3 weeks.

If all your tests post ablation came out ok I would think your heart needs more time to heal from the burns.

Was your ablation successful?

[Teach1]

Thank you for the response mariop.  So far the ablation has been successful which I am extremely thankful for! Was your ablation successful? Did your doctor give you an explanation as to why your heart rate and blood pressure became elevated?  I bet that was frightening to go through.  I'm sure you are right about my heart just needing more time to heal.  I just assumed that 4 weeks post-op would have been plenty of time.

[Momto3]

My experience was similar to mario's.  I had 2 ablations and each time my heart rate increased for a short time after the procedure.  I did not experience any chest pain or discomfort other than my leg was a bit sore.  Interestingly, after the second procedure, my BP rose enough to warrant a small dose of medication.  Up until then, my BP was on the low side...95-110/55-65.  

Hope you are feeling better.  I'm happy to hear your test results are good!!

Take care.

[chloerenee]

I had the exact same experience with ablation and had it done 2 years ago, I had just turned 30.  The dr. acted like I was some kind of freak but I had pain that I was taking tylenol for and my left arm was tingly (not good, right?) . On top of that I was svt free for only a short time.  I had the ablation in November and in March I was starting to have tachycardia worse.  More frequent and longer attacks and all he wanted to do was go in.  I was like"no way, I'm worse than before"  I think I'll take my chances and live with the svt.  It is getting difficult because I have it so freaking much.  I take 25 mg atenolol.  I hope your arrhythmia is fixed, not like mine.  I am scared to go anywhere else and so scared to even consider another ablation.  I am sorry you had the pain post op.

[dylansmomma2001]

Hi there-
I just got an ablation 5 days ago, for wpw syndrome.  I just returned from an ER visit.  I went in with a feeling of severe heartburn  as well as tightening/heavy feeling.  Also, I have a very severe headache- all post-procedure.  I too am a very healthy 30 year old woman, a runner in fact, with very low BP, typically 90/50-60.  Mine has shot up to 125/70.  Maybe that is what is causing the headache....?  Was told that these were not symptoms of ablation recovery- hard to believe when I did not have them going in, but have them now.....How are you doing now?  Thanks
Kate

[Smitty150]

My post-ablation nurse told me chest discomfort was due to heart being swollen enough to

"rub" against the pericardium (sp?). Mine went away within a day. Perhaps your situation is

different. From the comments on this thread I would strongly advise that THIS PROCEDURE

SHOULD NOT BE DONE BY YOUR LOCAL ELECTRO-PHYSIOLOGIST!


I obsessed on research and finally went to the Cleveland Clinic. I am now 2+ weeks out from the

procedure and, lord knows, I could still run in to rhythm problems (as they have warned me as they

do every patient), but so far things are smooth.


Think about it. This is a very tricky deal and you want someone who does it all day every day

every week.

[Smitty150]

How can I stop the "de-formatting" of my Posts? It looks terrible.

[ireneo]

I'm computer illiterate so I don't know what de-formatting is. I assume you mean the sentences are all spread out. I had some trouble with profile pictures showing up all over my screen. At the bottom of this screen is a spot titled "contact us." You can click on that, choose tech help and send them an email. They've been a great help to me.

[marlou514]

Hi I underwent my second ablation for wpw syndrome in January 2007.  This time it was successful, however I have been told It could return.  I'm 26 and otherwise healthy.  Like you I suffered terrible stabbing pains to my heart post procedure, they were agony initially,I couldn't lie flat, bend, lift, and definately couldn't work,  but gradually they got easier.  I'm still having the pain 11 months on, however less regularly.  It's really nice to hear that others have had the same experience as I was beginning to think I was imagining them.  I've been told that it's something that will eventually go but have been given no time scale.  

[gstrickland86]

I had 2 ablations in 2002-2003 for Afib and it was a success.  About 4 months following the last ablation I started having severe chest pain (Level 10) so I went to the emergnecy and it was determined that my Pulmonary veins had stenosed from the ablation - the 1 % risk that is discussed, that is me.

To make a long story short after stents and several angioplasties, my upper left PV is still 100% stenosed and lower left PV is ~ 50%.  The discomfort is still there but is not anyway as intense.

It may be worth asking the question of the pain continues - they are able to test with a CT angiogram now without having to cath.

Good luck

[Sweetwaterguy]

I developed an inflammation around my pericardium which caused some discomfort and an intermittent cough.   Whatever discomfort I had post ablation resolved quickly.  Hopefully you will end up with as good a result as I have experienced.  

[steven63]

I had abalation for AVNRT on January 22, 2008. I'm 45 and have had PSVT's if not all my life, then since I was about 14. For me, recovery was difficult.  I had alot of stabbing pains at the ablation site for the first few weeks, skipped heartbeats, dizziness and the like. Caught pneumonia 3 months after. Now, 4 1/2 months later I still get the stabbing pains, though much less frequently. Cardiologist says it should continue to subside. I find that when I suddenly exert myself (as opposed to gradually such as gardening or mild exercise), my blood pressure will spike to 140 or 180 and stay that way or I get the stabbing chest pain at the ablation site.  It can happen when I pickup something a little heavy, during sex or simply moving around too fast.  If my blood pressure spikes, I can feel like my heart is in my throat and my chest feels heavy and I am weak. I could go to bed and 8 hours later it is still spiked, with my heart rate at around 100. Dr. says to take a Verapamil, which brings me back to normal within 2 hours. Dr. originally said symptoms would last 30 days, then 3 months. I have seen so many varied experiences on this forum, I appreciate all who have shared. I don't feel so alone in my experiences.  By the way, no more PSVT's, which I am thankful for - and I hope they stay away. I look forward to symptoms continuing to decrease.

[bookert11]

hello everyone!! I have WPW and from you guys responses I dont think I'll get it treated anytime soon.  My heart rate does go up a bit and I do have chest pain and a tingle in my left arm like others have said. They say that WPW is something people are born with. Personally I think its "our" diets we grow up eatting fast food along with other horrible things we feed our bodies.  I'll encourage all of "us" myself included to eat better and stay away from fast food. :)

[james1234567526]

i am 25 had an ablation to to severe tachychardia  i was in the 200's

i had echo cardiogram my ablation took 6 hours i almost died

beacuse it took over control of the main chamber but they did it right i have tingling in my hand on  the left and am dizzy all of a sudden


and have chest pain should i go to the hospital?

[ireneo]

How long has it been since the ablation? It sounds like the ablation fixed your arrhythmia but now you have tingling. If the ablation is recent some people do comment on having some mild ache in the chest after the ablation but it's not debilitating.

As for the tingling, it sounds like there's some irritation of a nerve. Did you get a catheter in the neck vein as well? I only had the 4 in the femoral veins. After my first ablation I did have some achy feelings in my one leg for a few months. Nothing drastic but it hurt to sit or stand for any length of time. I figured they must have accidentally put pressure on a nerve during the procedure. It went away and I'm fine now.

If it's been a few weeks since the ablation, I'd say call your doctor. It may be something completely different and not related to the ablation at all. I have to leave it up to you to decide how severe your symptoms are. If you feel very bad, just go in and be seen.

[Zeropopordie]

I had an ablation over 3 months ago and have had a cough from the time I got out of surgery until now.  I have pericarditis  without effusion and have to sleep propped up.  They said that the machine blew a fuse when they were working on me and they had to wait 25 minutes until the janitor could replace it.  My concerns are that they would not have any imaging system after the blown fuse, and could not see where the catheter was.  I think the catheter may take a while to cool, so I'm worried that it might have burned something it shouldn't have.

My heart rate jumped 20 to 25 bpm (to 100) after the procedure and it was unsuccessful.  I still get Afib up to 180 bpm.

[CNickels77]

I had an ablation done 5 weeks ago and just haven't been right since.  I am have an increased heart rate.  Resting seems to be about 80 versus it used to be 60 and once I start moving around I am settling around 100.  Also, I have dizziness, am unsteady and am overall fatigued (not sure if the fatigue is from this ordeal or if it is heart related).  The doctors have pretty much said they have never heard of this.  One doctor this week theorized that maybe some nerve damage could have occurred which is effecting my vagal response so he has put me on medication to increase my blood pressure to get the blood moving better and relieve some of the stress on the heart hopefully leading to a lower rate.  Has anyone had anything similar?  I like most of you just want to feel "normal".

[Rachel465]

I had a left atrial ablation 5 weeks ago. I am experiencing chest pain, pressure, and shortness of breath, if I do anything streneous like walking, bending, or lifting.  I have had ekgs, an echo, blood work, a cat scan for pulmonary emboli, chest x-rays and nothing shows up.  The doctors cannot tell me what is causing this, or what to do.  A full aspirin helps ease the pain.  I am wondering if my LAD was affected, and if a stent would relieve the
pain etc.

[PaulS123]

I've had an SVT ablation around 2 months ago and even before I was getting out of breath, chest pain, dizzy and fatigued very easily during physical activity and sometimes even at rest.
Initially my palpitations kicked off at around 200 ish.
Had to go to hospital emergency because it wouldn't slow down, verapamil did the track after some hours.

After the ablation i've been getting sharp and hard chest pains and also mild chest pains and aches, fatigue, out of breath and dizzy.

I am 27yrs old and I used to play football and go to the gym, with a fit and healthy lifestyle.

I've been told it can happen to people by random, there's no explanation, the cardiologist can't determine the cause.

My SVT ablation was successful but during the procedure they found another 2areas, another SVT and a VT which is very close to my natural pacemaker.

The SVT ablation I had done was quite near my natural pacemaker too but they managed to do it successfully just by catheter ablation alone.

My VT is even closer to the natural pacemaker and I am going to have that done in a couple of weeks.

I've been a little worried sometimes but now seeing you all here makes me feel much better, you all got similar symptoms so i'm not alone.

It's amazing what doctors can do nowadays, we must be all grateful for medical science.

I wish you all the best on your recovery and hope you be in the clear.
It's a bit scary before going into theatre though but the first time i went, it wasn't as bad as i thought it would be, the worst thing was the bad news that i've got another 2 areas, so i got to go through it again.

Just want to be back to normal, they said after they're all ablated it's all cured and that's what i want.

I can't work, train, and sometimes can't evil do simple things, like walking etc.

Sometimes i feel semi faint as well.

I'm joining this community if anyone wants to talk to me or anything I'm here to share my experiences and to listen to others.

We all need support together because i know that it's not that common and very unlikely you've got a friend with the same problem, it's good we can meet here.

[PaulS123]

One of my cardiologists said that there is a small risk of death before i was deciding to have an SVT ablation, but because i'm young and taking tablets all my life is not a very good option, so i took the chance to be cured.

Strange that my other cardiologist who did the procedure only told me that the risk is just a risk of needing a pacemaker, and didn't mention death or anything.

I'd rather not know to be honest because it's too scary, i don't know why i'm typing this.

I have to have a VT ablation soon. My cardiologist said that it's very high risk, he didn't do that one last time, because he wanted me to sign a form. He only did the SVT.

So, a bit scared and i hope after this 2nd one it'll be all done with and cured.

[PaulS123]

I've heard that having VT is more serious than SVT according to my research on the internet and i've read that it's life threatening in some people so i hope i get rid of this thing.

I've asked my docs and they've not actually gave me an answer to my question about is it life threatening, and the nurses told me not to worry, i've just had an operation and i should rest and take it easy, the heart is a complicated thing.

Since then i've been taking each day as it comes, i'm not thinking about the future, it scares me, just take one day at a time and deal with it step by step, it's a better approach otherwise if you think too much you'll just worry.

[griffs_adamsdad]

I had the same thing after my ablation for SVT's (almost 4 yrs ago). It went away after about 8 weeks, I know it drives you crazy. But my doctor told me it can take up to 8 weeks for the ablation to take full effect. it's been great since then. Good luck to you, I wish you the best.

[larry649]

Hi Rachel, just wanted to know what tests did they do to find out that you needed ablation, and how high wasd your pulse rate?

[tina59]

I had an ablation 5 weeks ago on the left side of my heart. and 1-13-09
I had an ablation procedure done on the right side. The first one went smooth as silk. I was thrilled from day one. But the last one has been quite different. My chest pain has been horrible. Now i know that its just been a day, but I just want to make sure this will GO AWAYsoon. MY doctor said it should go away in three to four days, but my nurses said expect two to three weeks. Thats okay if its typical, just as long as it does GO AWAY.

[banglamom]

I have had 3 ablations.  After the second one, I felt like I had been run through a cheese grater or like I had a rug burn inside my chest.  They had done 25 burns and spent 6 hours.  It took 3-4 weeks before it quit hurting.  Mine didn't work either.  It was altogether a very disappointing day.  Hope your at least changed rhythms for you.

[jackieblu]

I had an ablation for SVT 5 days ago. I have symptoms like chest pain and pressure in my throat when I bend or switch positions from laying to standing and sitting. I have had about 3-4 skipped heart beats which put me on alert but they soon stopped after a few seconds. I have also experienced headaches and some coughing. I will take apirin on a daily basis for the next 2 weeks. I was not put to sleep during the procedure and they used two sites, one in the groin and the other just below my collar bone. When they proceeded to burn the nerves it hurt immensely. Is it routine to be put to sleep because I can't imagine going through this again.

[tia77]

I can't belive what I am reading here.  I thought I was some kind of freak.  After my ablation for wpw I experenced pain/burning in my chest.  Exactly where I felt it when the ablated during the procedure.  I keep calling and finnaly got in and I finally ended back in the hospital for test that were all negative.  I stayed on night and the gave me intervenous anti-inflammitories.  I went home taking 600 of motrin 3x a day.  My ablation was unsuccesful.  The bad signal is to close to the main artery in the heart.  They also burned 3 times and then put a hole inbetween the chambers and tried to get it through the other side of the heart.  The day after the procedure I started with pvc and have had them ever since.  I now have to take toprol which doesn't work well and I have hair lose from it.  Try taking some motrin for a week and see if it helps.  

[misha_AL]

I am not in as good a health before the catheter ablation but I am definitely having the same issues.  Try using CoQ10.  Just check with the cardiologist since it will interact with heart meds or blood pressure medication.  I am still having some issues but it is much better than before and I am off the bp and heart meds.

I was having constant heart palpations 100-110 heartrate, fatigue, dizziness, generally ill feeling.  Everyone is saying just go for a walk but I cannot catch my breath from getting off the couch much less WALK.  Some days are better than others.

[TachyAfraidy]

I am 4 days post ablation for afib and come to find out a flutter too. I have not read the dr's post surgery report yet, but I was laid out on the table for 11 hours. I felt like my shoulders were in a vice for 11 hours when they brought me back to consciousness.  I have read everyone's post op comments because I have severe edema and my hr and bp have been purposfully kept low with 360 verapamil 2x daily for 3 weeks prior ablation. I felt tired all of the time and was tachy-brady. In Jan I ran red lights to the hospital with a hr of 225 and bp of 240/200. Had a bout of Tachy one more time before ablation..was scary. I also had sick sinus and tachycardia from one minute to the next. My hr would fluctuate from 29 to 160! Changed meds around and was taken off propafenone altogether.

Had to take blood thinner to get my INR to 2.5...was given
hypertension meds and that walloping dose verapamil. Before ablation was very brady and almost fainted at work twice.

Now my concern is that my bp is calm 100/70, but hrate goes from 77 all the way up to 111, whereas before procedure hr was happy at 60-70. Taking huge amounts of lasix. My chest pain is subsiding throat is sore still.

I too was on the heart monitor/blackberry ACT sensor for 21 days prior to procedure. It would be nice to have it on for a few weeks post surgery to see what is going on.

FYI I was on the flourescope for 99 minutes during the 11 hour ablation and ep study and my ep stated that I will have a radiation burn on my back in approx 4-6 weeks. Oh well. During 11 hours, I am certain he ablated everything that he felt was a problem.

If I have to do it again, I hope my heart can wait for the newer cryo catheter to get FDA approval in Jan 2010!

All the best to all of you. and if high heart rate post ablation is something that you all have experienced, please give a shout!
Just call me Tachy Afraidy!

Oh, I am 44 and was active until this hit me on Christams Day! I have an excellent cardiologist, but we all have to be our own spokespersons for how our body feels. I am not shy and I think both my cardiologist and my ep were a bit tired of my questions. They answred them all though. That is how we learn. This stuff is all new to me! I have a lot of living left to do! All the best to all of you and thanks for the comfort that I find in reading all of your experiences. We are not alone in this. :0)

[PaulS123]

I'm more better than before now, goin' to the gym, working full time, generally I am ok. I know it's very hard to overcome it, especially with the heart you will get anxiety cos it's a serious thing and it messes with your head and causes depression also with all this combined it can make you feel unwell anyway, it took me just over a full year to feeling generally well again, fingers crossed and hope you all become feeling well soon.

[MichellesLaw]

Thank you Teach1 for starting this post.  I also thank each and everyone one of you for sharing your story and experiences.  I had my ablation done 16 days ago at UCLA.  Did anyone else in thi group have their ablation done at UCLA/Ronald Regan?

I too have had chest pains/preasure/cardio cough/shortness of breath/ and dizzyness.  I was admitted to the ER at UCLA 14 hours before my ablation for an epsiode of svt @ 249 bpm for over 5 hrs (they told me I had to stop all my meds before surgery so they could ensure they could induce an SVT episode.  

My fastest episode of SVT/WPW was 289 bpm. I was told I too have WPW but not every cardiologist has seen it on the EKG.  My heart rate hasn't slowed down at all like I was told if anything like many of you it is actually about 99-111 bpm  Where prior to the ablation it was about 87-93.  I have been trying not to be a wimp and go back in to see my surgeon.  After hearing everyones stories I don't feel so redicent to call up my surgeons office to be seen.

I also have had three episodes where I have no fever but I get the chills so severe I shake all over till I get warm.  Am I the only one who has experienced this?

I was on the table for 8 hours  I was told it took them a while to figure out where it was and how to get to it.  My ablation was done on the back of the left side of my heart.  My neck is still very sore where they entered.  The sites on both sides of my groin healed quickly with no problems.  

I fatigue easily and take naps most afternoons around 3-4 PM.  There is no way I would last communiting and teaching everyday.  I was told to take 4 baby asprins everyday for a month then daily after that for the rest of my life.  I still feel like at times my heart wants to or is trying to go back into a SVT but the BPM stays in the low 100 range.  

What a relief it is to discover I am not alone in my experiences. I wish each and everyone of you good health and a speedy recovery.

Michelle

[TachyAfraidy]

Wow! Your rapid rhythm puts mine to shame. We have diiferent arrythmias, I believe, but wow! How do you cope with the out of control feeling??? I would love to know your secret, I am an emotional basket case at times over it! I hope your heart settles down and you have some peace. There is nothing peaceful about tachychardia no matter how rapid the rhythm is or what kind it is. I look forward to the time in between irregular rhythms, when I feel peaceful. Sinus rhythm is a beautiful thing.I am now 16 days post ablation and there are good days and bad ones. :0) Be well.

PS - I am overweight and pre menopausal and I now have the chills too! That is really unlike me!! Nice to hear someone feels this way too.

[debcashdol]

I'm hoping someone can help me.  About 2 months ago, I had an SVT.  I may have had a short one some 15+ years ago, but it lasted a minute and never recurred.  Frankly, I barely remember it.  

I had been asleep for about 3 hours.  It was 2 AM and I awoke and noticed that my heart felt funny.  I eventually went to get a BP monitor, because I remembered that it had a heart rate on it.  The heart rate errored out and I got alarmed.  I ended up in an ambulance.  They told me it was an SVT and used adenocard to stop it.  The ER told me to see a cardiologist.  The cardiologist put me on 50 mg of  toprol XL daily.  The cardiologist sent me for an echo and it came back normal.  When I went back to the cardiologist for a followup, I asked if the toprol could be giving me a funny feeling in my chest.  He suggested that maybe I was now hypersensitive and I told him I didnt think so.  In fact, I asked if I really needed the medicine, since I had only one episode and it might not happen again.  WELL, everything changed at this appointment when he asked if I had gotten the ambulance EKG.  I told him I had dropped it back at his office so he located it and took a look.  Turns out my heart rate was 280, and even peaked at 300 several times during my SVT.  He immediately called a colleague and they agreed that I needed an ablation--medication was not good enough.  
Well, the fun was just beginning, because the "funny feelings" in my chest kept happening, and I had several episodes where I was jolted from my sleep with an elevated heart rate--nothing near 200, but up to 130, while I was on toprol.  It happened typically about 1 hour after I had fallen asleep and before I went to sleep my resting heart rate was 60-65.  A couple of times, it even felt like an electrical type jolt in my chest.  It was alarming.
Okay, so I had the ablation and it went well.  They found the pathway, ablated it, my legs healed in a few days.  The thing is, the uncomfortable feeling continues.  I just dont feel right at times, typically at night, laying flat or on my right side.  I do not think I am hypersensitive because these feelings often wake me from my sleep.  I have never had any trouble sleeping before.  And it's strange, I might have 2 good nights in a row, then have a couple restless nights with my chest feeling heavy or hollow---really uncomfortable.
I had an event monitor for just a few days before the procedure, because I wanted the cardiologist to capture whatever was causing the chest weirdness.  I've continued to use it and have sent probably 14 events to the cardiologist.  READY?  He sees nothing on the EKG.  
I KNOW it is not my imagination.  I KNOW that I never had any fluttering, or hollow feelings, or uncomfortable feelings before that original SVT.  I don't know where to go from here.  
This doctor is really well respected.  He has done thousands and actually taught the ablation procedure at Ohio State, Riverside, and the Cleveland Clinic.

[wpwgoodbyeplease]

HI!
i had my ablation a year ago for asymptomatic WPW. it was found incidentally during a cardiac workup while trying to find a reason for some fainting spells that i have from time to time. the WPW was supposedly causative, so i underwent the procedure. i was consciuous and they couldnt give me a lot of iv valium because they had to keep me alert enough to trigger the wpw symptoms. they did 17 ablations and i felt them all, but only some hurt - in that case i complanied and the nurse gave me a little more happy fluid. not the most pleasant experience ever but doable for those who have it ahead of them. in my case they entered thorugh the groins only. no scars at all, cant even find the spots anymore.
i had chest discomfort and felt pooped for about 3 weeks, then everything subsided. no tachycardias or high blood pressures in my case, probably since i never had symptoms of the kind to start with.
however, after 1 year i still feel my hear sometimes.l cant call it pain, but i feel it is there and that work has been done in there. somebody else in this thread said "chest weirdness", that's a good word for what i feel.

does anyone else still feel chest discomfort a year later very much like the post-ablation burning sensation, only milder???

my fainting has not gone away and i am now worked up neurologically to find an answer, they cant find anything evident either, so i guess its just low blood sugar or being a wimp.

has actually anyone ever fainted because of WPW??

thanks, it s great to have this forum for exchange. have learned a lot from previous discussions!

[formermidwife]

I am 55 and have had five major cardiac issues. Detoxing and juicing and strict diet addressed the poor pumping ability and two severely leaking valves. Three electrical problems remained. It had been four years since I had seen a cardiolgist and they were amazed at the two issues that had stabilized. I soon had a pacemaker. I then had a successful SVT ablation. I don't believe that I was told honestly about the risks but the tachycardia was happening often and harder to convert.
I agree that going to an electrophysiologist with a great reputation is so impt. I then had a left sided PVC ablation. I was not informed about the difference in the room and procedures compared to the SVT ablation and would have liked to be more prepared mentally and emotionally. It was deemed successful, but after 3 weeks I tried to take a five minute walk and have crashed for four days with the same symptoms that propelled me to undergo the ablation. I contacted the dr who said it probably isn't PVC's but I've had very debilitating PVC's for five years and believe that I know the symptoms and suspect that the ablation was not successful. I don't know wether I would undergo another.

[jawarneh]

please i waan ask about post ablation symptoms?? i had ablation for wolf parkinson syndrom (syndrome) 2 weeks ago and still have episods of palpitaion specificlyy after eating and when i wann go to bed at night,,it make me anxious and scared and disturbe me more and more......
after ablation i had already holtter and the result show normal heart beats and my doctor said this is normal to have some episods of palpitations for 6 months later and i f you want i can give you some beta blockers,, but i refused,, but im scared from this plapitaion episods and im anxious that the ablation was failed,,

[jawarneh]

please i waan ask about post ablation symptoms?? i had ablation for wolf parkinson syndrom (syndrome) 2 weeks ago and still have episods of palpitaion specificlyy after eating and when i wann go to bed at night,,it make me anxious and scared and disturbe me more and more......
after ablation i had already holtter and the result show normal heart beats and my doctor said this is normal to have some episods of palpitations for 6 months later and i f you want i can give you some beta blockers,, but i refused,, but im scared from this plapitaion episods and im anxious that the ablation was failed,,

[luv4cascy]

I had mine done last tuesday and prior to the procedure I was warned it may take a few times...mine is the sa node itself..i had chest pain and arm pain post which i was told take ibuprofen for..due to the irritaiton to the heart muscle and damage caused by the ablation itself..was extremely tired the first few days but slowly getting better...i will eventually have a pacemaker due to the fact its the sa node itself...im also 29 and was very active..hopefully with my rhythm under control i can become active again.

[Greg101004]

I was one of the first to undergo an ablation for SVT. It was done at Children's Hospital in DC almost 15 YEARS ago. I am now 23. I was in the hospital almost every week for a year before I had the surgery. They told my parents I could die during any of the episodes. My heart was once recorded at over 290 beats per minute. Sometimes it may have been higher. After the 8 hour surgery I was in the hospital for several days. I had skipped heartbeats and bad pains in my chest. Afterward they thought I was better and for a long time it seemed I was. However, over many years, I gradually became more and more fatigued. I had always been extremely active in soccer and wrestling, both very demanding sports. By the age of 18, I could not even run a mile without collapsing. I have been suffering with severe fatigue for 5 years and waited until I was out of college before going to see a doctor about it. I am now involved with a cardiologist that specializes in ablations and I am a 'special' case because the original ablation that was done on me is nothing like what is done today. I may need a much more serious operation in the future. Still too much is unknown.

I hope that the surgery has come a long way since my days in and out of the hospital. But please heed my warning. 15 years later there can be some MAJOR consequences to this surgery. Please talk to your doctor about this. If he says he hasn't heard of anybody having problems after a few years, mention to him of one person that had it 15 years ago, and although would most likely be dead without it, is still suffering because of it.

[Natasha79928]

I just recently underwent an ablation for SVT after suffering for many years. I had been on beta blockers which did not stop the SVT which was only stopped with Adenosine. I had my ablation 3 days ago and I feel a bit sore and tired. For the ablation my doctor only does it under general anesthesia which was a shock to me. I do not recall anything after the prepping for the procedure. He entered through both groins and the right side of my chest wall, which I had never heard of. Other than a little light headedness I feel okay. I have not felt too many palpitations and when I do then feel lighter than before. I actually drove to the store today which was not too bad. I have my follow up next week I hope the surgery went well.

[miamibeacher]

I have been diagnosed with period atrial flutter, along with occasional heart palpitations.  Has anyone here had atrial flutter (as opposed to atrial fibrillation) and had an ablation?  My cardiologist and electrophysiologist are basically saying that I am headed toward an
ablation.  I have been using Magnesium. CoQ10 and fish oil, which seems to help a bit, plus changed my diet.  If you have had atrial flutter and had an ablation, how has it been for you? Any recommendations? I am 55 yrs old, and the doctors, after many tests, cannot find anything else wrong with my heart, blood, etc.

[Fran534]

Am considering have ablation done for well controlled psvt.  Have had this for nearly 30 years, and am now 57.  Was wondering if anyone can tell me how long it takes for the body to adjust to not taking the medication for it anymore.  Am currently taking cardizem and digoxin for it.

[waring_10]

I had Cardiac ablation for SVT on June 25, 2009.  Before going into surgery my doctor said" How do you feel and you are going to be cured" I am now post ablation over 1-month and I am still having some episodes.  I can't drink anything cold without feeling light headed and having palpitations. I went back to the doctor's office and was told that all was fine and it may take up to 3-months for me to completely heal.  From whatI am reading, I don't expect too much.  I feel as though I have a cold most of the time and I have to be very careful with my movements so as not to cause palpitations.  I hope this gets easier but I won't have another ablation.  Instead of spending research money on procedures, it would be better to know WHY so many of us are having this problem from every age group.

[Mom2four85]

I would like to know the WHY also, I am set for ablation soon due to pvc's 24/7 - been this way for 6 mths - 1 year but I just recently found out what I was feeling.

I asked why am I have these and they cannot find any answer from all my tests so far - they said they may find out during surgery or I may never know.

I have no choice I have to have ablation and I had a terrible reaction/side effect of taking my first dose of Toprol 25 mg [ugh] ended up in the ER so I'm really leery of any meds.

[Waitingforablation]

I am 35 years old...I have atrial fibrillation which started in Feb 09....I have been to the ER 2 times a week.  I have been cardioverted 8 times and chemically cardioverted 20 plus times.  I have chest pain, shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, dizzy, faint.  I am waiting for 4 more weeks for ablation surgery.  My heart rate while in afib ranges from 29 to 220 and it not controlled well with medication.  I can't work, can't take care of my family....I am getting depressed and worried about the surgery and wondering how to cope for 4 more weeks of ER visits and cardioversions.  I wish there was more hope for atrial fibrillation patients.  


Sincerely,

Waitingforablation

[mattex810]

I just wanted to share my PVC ablation experince since I've been visiting these forums forever now but have nver contributed anything.  I've read numerous posts with people who had complications and terrrible ablation experiences and aImost backed out of having the procedure done because I was pretty scared and questioning whether it was really worth it.

Anyway I'm a 30yr old male and HAD unifocal PVC's originating from the RVOT..between 5,000 to 20,000 a day! So incredibly annoying and I just couldn't bring myself to believe that these things weren't going to slowly erode my heart function over the next 50 years.

Yesterday 7/31/2009 I had my ablation with Dr. Rinkenberger at Medical City Dallas hospital. I'm home today and feel fine except the right groin area is just slightly sore. I don't remember anything from the procedure but when I woke he came and told me how it went. When they started I was having a PVC about ever third beat and they were able to accurately map the area responsible about 4mmx4mm. He ablated that one site 2 times and that the PVC's immediately stopped.  They waited 30 minutes and I never had another one so they ended the procedure and took me to recovery. I was monitored overnight and never had one single PVC! I realize that there's always the chance that they could come back but for now it seems I'm cured. I've had these stupid things for almost 15 years and I have to tell you its almost unbelievable to me right now that they're gone.

The worst part of the procedure was the pre-surgery nervousness and the IV insertion...really no big deal!

Good luck to you all out there. I promise to post if they recur or I have some kind of complication.

[JR10014]

It's been a day and one-half since my ablation on Friday afternoon for A-Fib.  Was told that it was very successful. My rate was steady in the 60s following procedure. Started Tykeson that night, switching from Sotalol which produced rates in mid to upper 40s. Yesterday morning I went back into AF and experienced chest pains -- felt throbbing pain with each heart beat and same senation upon inhaling. Today, Sunday morning, chest pain has lessenend but I ams still in and out of A-fib.  I asked my Dr. this morning if he still considers the procedure successful. He said not to be discouraged, that patients frequently go back into A-Fib. Says we won't know for sure for about three to four months. Appreciate feedback from anyone who experienced similar results. Like many of you I had ablation to correct arrythmia, and to elimiate need for beta blockers and blood thinners.  Thanks.  JR10014  

[KMMCA]

I am 31 yrs old. Female and this is my 4th ablation for something totally different. PVC's I also experience PAC's which sometimes I think are the same things...(are they who knows) I went in July 29th and am 8days post ablation and my chest hurts so much. When i breath in it hurts, if i lift anything or bend over it hurts. I feel exhausted also, having to nap during the day. I was told that they couldn't map the exact area but burned a general area where they could see some of the PVC's coming from. I was in surgery for about 4hrs and was put to sleep. I woke up with the burning feeling and a horrid headache. The headache went away but the chest pain/burning stayed. I have been on Motrin per the nurse for the pain. It helps but i can definitely feel when i am coming off of hte motrin and have to take another one. I have read so many posts and some say it could take up to 3 or 4months for the heart to actual heal completely. I really hope i heal soon, this pain is for the birds. I too have a hard time walking without being exhausted. ***** but it's life i guess im glad I do not feel the PVC's anymore. Yay!

Good luck to you all that are having ablations.

[Waitingforablation]

I had my ablation proceedure for atrial fib on Aug 19th/09.  I was called "waitingforablation" but now I have made it though this nightmare.  I was shocked 10 times and chemically cardioverted ???? times.  I was soooo tired of my heart beating from 228 - 29.  My last electric cardioverson... did not go well and I was screaming as I was getting shocked....my husband was outside the room and jumped up and came racing in to see me hallucinating for about an hour and half....the medications were ketamine and propofol....I had a horrible reaction and was not quite under sedation.  I had afib attacks 12 hours after that shock and everyday until my surgery.  I was extremely nervous to have the surgery but the Lord helped me and gave me courage and strength.  My surgery was successful and my surgeon was smiling after the proceedure Pulmonary Vein Ablation on the L side of the atrium.   I am afib free!!!!!  Thank you everyone for your thoughts and prayers and posts for encouragement and advice.  It has now been one week since my ablation and have experience no afib and very little chest pain.  Went for a walk today with my children.  Still healing and taking time to relax and enjoy life again.  At 35... I am very happy to have my life back.  Thoughts and prayers for everyone who is dealing with SVT and other heart problems.  Best wishes.....No longer waitingforablation.

[fshnski]

I had my Afib ablation two weeks ago and have not had an irregular beat since the surgery.  Keeping my fingers crossed.  I went to the U of Michigan for the procedure and was on the table for a total of ten hours.  It was quite complicated because of many procedures in the groin area before, including a flutter ablation, angiograms and angioplastys, prostate cancer surgery and bi lateral hernias.  I had a great deal of scarring.  I had no surgical pain what so ever and have only had discomfort, ok a lot of pain, following the surgery because of the bruising in the groin and legs.  They had to go in thorough both groins in order to get to the areas that needed attention.  

In addition, because of the preablation scarring they had to use both high frequency heat and cryo or freezing techniques which made the surgery last longer than it was supposed to.  But the post surgical results have been spectacular with not a single PAC or irregular beat of any kind at all.   I was thrilled that I went to see Dr. Chugh at the U of Michigan who had come highly recommended and felt a high level of both care and caring.  Both his sugical manner and bedside manner were spectacular and felt that the high number of procedures he performs certainly added to the probablility of success.   I figure I have about another two weeks of sore legs and groin to go before I am feeling totally human again, but its been well worth the wait and I can't wait to go off of Coumadin and Solotol.... both drugs that I would love to live without.   Besides the ski season is coming pretty soon here in the mountains of Colorado.   j jaffe

[jrizzuto]

I'll be meeting with a doctor at Baylor on thursday to discuss options. I have Accelerated Junctional Rythmn, some Brady at night, lots of PVCs during the day, overal miserable way of living. I was hoping that I might be a candidate for RF Ablation and finally be normal....but after reading the horror stories here, I'm scared out of my mind to do this. I am consumed by the "what if".

My quality of life pretty much ***** the way it is right now, and at 52 I'm not ready to throw in the towel. But most of my symptoms sound pretty much like what you folks got AFTER the so called fix. So what is the gain for me?

[twig179]

I just wanted to post my SVT ablation story and see if anyone else has experienced this and found out anything to do for this.  I had an SVT ablation in Jan. 2009.  I did well for about 2-3 weeks then started having chest pain and right shoulder pain, getting worse with activity.  I have had many tests, heart tests, MRI, x-rays, and they can't find any reason for my pain.  My cardiologist didn't help me much after the procedure and now I have gone for a second opinion and hope and pray that he can help me!  I just want to be able to do normal things without pain.  I know this is not normal and it didn't start until after the ablation.

[Bdream]

I am a  55 year old female and I had ablation surgery on 7-29-09.  I went in early that morning and was ready to get it over with.  About 6 hours later the doctor told my family that the surgery had gone well and that they could see me in about an hour.  He said that I had gone into afib during surgery and it helped to know exactly where to burn.  Well an hour later they came back and told my family that I was bleeding somewhere they did not know and that I would have to have emergency surgery.  They found out that the doctor had cut a nerve on his way in and I had been bleeding for hours into my abdomen.  They called in a vascular surgeon to do the emergency surgery and I was given 8 units of blood.  WHAT A BAD DREAM.  However, the ablation surgery itself seems to have worked.  I am having some chest pain and an occasional afib but it does not last but for a few seconds at a time.  However, the vascular surgeon had to put in a stint into my abdomen and I am still having pain from that.  I am tired all the time and I guess it is all going to have to run its course.  I dont think I would ever go through this again.  I almost died and I think I would just stay on medication the rest of my life and not risk a mess up.  Make sure you have a very, very experienced doctor doing your surgery.

[TachyAfraidy]

omg! That is horrid. I was on the table in the cath lab for 11 hours and my family never got an update. They thought I had coded or was dead.I had a reasonably easy recovery and thought that I certainly would do it again...until I read your post! Jeeezee. Now I am not so sure. :(

I hope you feel better everyday. It took me about 4 months and a few medication changes by my cardiologist. Hang int there!

[YamaBlonde]

hi from England!  I had an aortic valve replacement nearly 3 years ago (quite successful, by the way!), so I don't have the pericardium to deal with -- someone mentioned the heart swelling up against this sac.  Makes sense of course, as any part of the body being poked and prodded will probably swell, especially an internal organ!

I have had AF ( Atrial Fibrillation) episodes for nearly 7 years now.  (I was first diagnosed with AF in Nov 2002 - in the US -- at which time they found my faulty valve.  Obviously, the deteriorating valve necessitated its replacment.  But please note: doctors both in the US and the UK said the AF was not related in any way to the valve problem. And no one can tell me why I have this either!

My AFib episodes had suddenly increased in severity and duration this past May (2009). So I have seen my cardiologist and an electrocardiologist as well. And ablation seems the way forward for me.  I am tired of not knowing if and when I might go into AF -- I want a "real" life again, if that is possible.

I have tried 2 different beta blockers, and I got worse.  Stupidly, I stayed on them for a long time (years), all the while suspecting that was why my episodes were worsening.  

Now on Amiodarione for a tad over 3 weeks (they say it takes 4+ weeks to get to the therapeutic level where this med stops the AF altogether) -- and I can say, that although I am not AF-free (yet), the episodes are MUCH milder, and only lasting up to 3 hrs. Whereas before, about 2 months ago, I had an episode that lasted 5 days.  Scary to say the least!

Amiodarone is not a long term solution, as it can be toxic to the liver, kidneys. thyroid and/or lungs. And they say I am too young for it (I am nearly 58, mind you!), so I have to laugh -- feel free to "guffaw" along with me!  :)

I always thought doctors HAD to tell you the whole story for ANY procedure.. not just the good possibilities/probabilities, but the risks as well.  And you bet I am frightened, but I keep reminding myself I have gone through (major) open-heart surgery ansd survived that, so hopefully, this will be a "piece of cake" in comparision.

Through research (I am one of those who wants to know absolutely everything about a condition and procedure), it seems best to have an ablation by an electrocarsdiologist who performs AT LEAST 40-60 a year.  And where it is routinely done at the hospital one will be visiting.  Obviously, more experience equals better results, no? I am "lucky"  the hospital where I am having the ablation is a heart specialty university hospital, and the team of docs I will have attending me do over 300 ablations each year.

By the way, all I have heard and read indicates that recuperation time for ablation procedures can be up to 3 months for most folks.  Some recover (much) more quickly, and other take a bit longer.  All about the averages, I guess.

And I figure, if the docs at the hospital could help me control my post-op heart surgery pain -- which was VERY controlled! -- then they can help me with this too.  In my opinion, it's about knowing my options, doing research, and being proactive.  But again, that is MY opinion.

God willing, we'll all heal and go on to better, more fulfilled lives.  FINGERS CROSSED!

hugs to all,
Debb  :)

[TachyAfraidy]

You and I sound very much alike! The ablation was a piece of cake to recover from. Just a side note: My EP Dr. is a senior fellow and teaches this procedure at a highly esteemed University here, so I firmly agree with you about having the experienced hand to do such delicate work inside your heart...but an "irrigated" catheter was used which put about 18 lbs (approx 9 kilos?) of fluid into my body which gave me the worst post surgical symptome of dyspnea and fatigue until I got the water off of me with diuretics. You may want to clarify this with the Dr. so he can prescribe a diuretic post procedure.Just something that I had to deal with, but once my body expelled the excess fluid, I felt much better and went back to work in 4 days after. Best of luck to you, and after going thru having your sternum cracked and a valve replacement, you can do this with your eyes closed! It is not bad at all. I had discomfort for the night after the surgery only. You can do this! Take good care and please post after your ablation and let me know how you feel. :0)

[Glitterar]

Hi to all! Interesting reading everyone's experience with ablation.  I just had my ablation last Wednesday, 10/21, and am doing well.  Slight chest pain but no other problems.  Still worried they will come back but I guess that is normal.  If they do, I will not wait the 9 months I waited to have this done.  I was totally awake while they ablated 3 parts of my right heart wall.  Worst part was having my heart rate go up to over 215 (they gave me medicine to get it there).  I was able to go home that night and tomorrow I go back to work.  They key is to have very skilled team (my Dr. was the first in the USA to do them for PVC's) and has done more than 4000 himself.  After trying 4 different medicines that didn't work...ablation was the answer for me!  Complications are rare and the relief was well worth it for me.

[notaro]

wow!! what a great thread. I have learned so much from all of your experiences. I have recently been diagnosed with PVC's. I feel them . it feels like my heart is going to gallop right out of my chest. I also have dizziness, and chest pain with them. Is this what you who have PVC's feel like? I dont think I am having all that many,and the norvasc they put me on is helping, but the biggest problem is with exertion. that is when I feel it the most. I am told that if they are bothersome enough for me, I would go thru an EPS and then ablation. I am not so sure I will be quick to go thru ablation after reading all of your posts. I am going to try to get the most out of meds if possible.
did you all stay over night after your ablations, it sounds like after several hours in the cath lab, they shouldnt just send you home, which some of you did it sou nds like.

I need more infor on the PVC's. what do people feel like who have them and is the ablationworth it? it sounds like most people have ablation for svt, rather than PVC. thanks for all of your help.
kathy notaro

[Glitterar]

Hello Notaro...I had my ablation for PVC's.  My last Holter Monitor showed 32,651 in 48 hours.  I had pain in my chest and was out of breath.  Exertion was worse.  The PVC's totally disrupted my life.  They tried 4 different medications on me that didn't work...some made them worse.  So I had no other option really.  I had a very good EP and my internist felt that ablation would help me get my life back AND so far it has.  I didn't have to stay overnight as they used a vein and not an artery.  My palps were from the right side of my heart and that's why they didn't have to use an artery.   I was awake the whole time with the only discomfort when they used medication to increase my palps and to check to see if they got them all.  That's it!  Recovery was fast and by the next day I was making banana bread and enjoying my life again.  I had some slight chest discomfort and back soreness near my heart.  I am praying that my palps don't come back.  If I ever get them (perhaps in another area) I would have an ablation again without question.  Good luck to you!

[CandyinSC]

I had "The Lesser" ablation done in Seattle, WA in 2004. Just a month ago I had the "Big Kahuna" one done in Augusta, GA. Both femorals & the neck involved this time. They had to punch through the center wall of my heart and ablate the left atrium. I am doing pretty well, in and out of AF, and very much the same after-effects as all of you. On lots of meds until the first of the year (coumadin is the worst!). EP told me it takes the heart roughly 90 days to heal, and the AF is expected during this period, as well as discomfort, flutters, etc. I, too, would just like to feel human again - but am starting to rule out that possibility.

[Mom2four85]

I had my ablation 2 mths ago and had Versed during the procedure, it really makes you relax and not worry about what they're doing.

I had to have one due to over 54,000 pvc's daily (24 hrs) I had long runs of polymorphic sustained VT even during surgery.  This caused me to develope non-ischemic cardiomyopathy, and I had to have a pacemaker/icd implanted after testing and a cardiac cath test.

The ablation was relatively easy; even with all of my compliactions during surgery and I felt better a couple of hours after; better than I had in a long while.  The 2 days until I had to have my PM/ICD implanted I was pvc free and felt wonderful even being confined to the hospital.

Since surgery, I've been having PAC's off & on, and makes me wonder how long before the pvc's come back and I need another ablation.

[Glitterar]

Two weeks ago today had my ablation and I'm still feeling great!  Little heart stresses have stopped and feel normal.  Have started walking again (for exercise) and that makes me feel better.  I have not been able to do that since February when this session of palps began and nothing else worked to stop them. Ablation changed my life!

[Mom2four85]

That is wonderful news! congratulations and I wish you the best.

It's always great to hear that others had successful ablations and are cured.  I know for me, I will always wonder in the back of my mind if pvc's will come back.  If they do, I won't hesitate for a sec to have another ablation.

when it's cool here in FL, we walk as much as I can, I think that's one of the things I miss the most - being able to exercise when I want

[lawyer2b2011]

I had an ablation in February, 2009, for AVRNT.  My issues started in the Fall of 2008, when I would have this strange feeling that would shoot from my head to my toes (later learned it was party of the electrical problem).  I was also having pains in my chest.  I'm in law school and just assumed it was stress from studying.  Then, after finals in December, I woke up during a Saturday afternoon nap to what felt like my heart justs flip-flopped from one side to the other.  I also had that heaviness feeling in my chest and my breathing was a bit labored.  Called my brother-in-law who is a doctor, and happened to be on call at the hospital, and he told me to come to the ER.  Got there and they hooked me up to all the monitors, and my hr was 210.  I was 36 at the time, and a healthy female, who never had any problems before this.  After 2 days in the hospital and many tests, they diagnosed me with AVRNT and said I've had it since birth.  The docs suggested an ablation, but I opted against it.  After getting out of the hospital, I had a second opinion at another hospital, and that cardiologist also suggested having the ablation.  I agreed because I had done lots of research on the procedure, and he came highly recommended.  He said the ablation would "cure" this problem.  Well, I had the ablation in February 2009, and they burned two spots on my heart.  I had the severe pain after my ablation that lasted several weeks.  I called the cardiologist and they said it was normal and I shouldn't worry.  It did finally seem to go away.

However, for the last few months, I've been having the pains in my chest again.  I called the cardiologist and they told me I need to see my Primary Care Physician because they don't believe it's related to my ablation or my AVRNT problem.  I was shocked!  I know my body, and it is the same kind of pain I had prior to the ablation.  I'm also having the "dizzy" spells where I feel a little faint and I get that weird feeling from my head to my toes.  I don't pass out, but it's like a strange dizziness.  Anybody else have this problem????  

[Mom2four85]

dizzy spells can be dangerous, I believe your GP can ask for a tilt table test (ttt) or some call it a head up tilt test (hutt) to rule out certain things like NCS, OI and POTS

you may want to go to him/her and ask and see who he recommends doing one

it's relatively easy - you lay on a table with monitors on, they stand you up a certain degree and then check your vitals at certain intervals and if you don't faint, they give you nitro to see if that makes your problem worse - I think it opens the vessels and makes the blood pool in your legs quickly

I had mine at the hospital;  I went out cold when they gave me nitro, no pulse no bp but if that happens, they just drop the table back and put your legs up and you recover.

[G221]

Hello,
Just had an ablation 2 weeks ago.  Have had lightheadedness all the time, worse when laying down or resting.  I looked for info. on the web and "found" that "hemodynamic instability", which I think is changes in blood pressure, is associated with inflammation.  I just had my heart manipulated.  There is an "in heart" blood pressure sensor which provides feedback to the brain about what to do to maintain optimal blood pressure.  I think it can get screwed up from the inflammation, a false reading. That is my unmedical understanding.  Ask your doc about the bar___  reflex.  I am hoping it gets better as time passes.
The other thing is I still experience the pre excitation phase of my tachy, although not my tachy, after ablation.  The former has been decreasing in intensity, but is definitely annoying and disturbing. I found relief by doing vv manouvers, just like pre ablation.  Just my experience.  Talk to your doc.
Maybe this helps,
G    

[chris7377]

I had my ablation one week ago today for svt where my heart would race between 200-300 beats per minute.  Other than some chest pain and tiredness,  I seem to be fine after the procedure. The dr. said we would have to wait and see if it worked.  The ablation had to occur very close to the AV node, so he thinks he corrected the problem.  If not, he said I would have to have a cryoablation which would be safer in this case, so they would not damage the AV node.  So far, I haven't had any episodes, so here is hoping that all is well now!!

[coffeen]

I had my ablation 11/2/09 (last week).  Like you, I was dubious of this procedure but I have to tell you it was a breeze.  My worrying was for nothing.  IThe only thing I remeber was when they got my heart rate up, which they have to do to locate the problem.  I stayed overnight in the heart hospital (good place to have this done) and have felt fine since except for some feelings in indigestion in my chest.  If this continues I will call the Dr. to discuss.  I have never taken meds for my PSVT and don't think I ever will with all of the bad side effects and my Dr. did not push them either.  Would be glad to fill you in on more detail if you would like.  

SallyG

[coffeen]

Read your posting and like you my ablation went just fine.  The only think I notice is that I feel like I have indigestion in my chest area and this happened right after the ablation.  Did you experience this?  It also feels as if the chest area is full.  But all in all everything went very well.  I think the most important consideration is to have this done by a very experienced capable Dr.  Mine has been doing ablations for 15 years and works at the Austin Heart Hospital.  Hope all is still well with you.....SallyG

[Glitterar]

Hello!  Glad your ablation went well.  No, I did not have indigestion feelings.  I did have a feeling in my chest and in my back area of my heart.  I am sure it's because they actually burn areas of your heart so it has to heal.  I am wearing a 24 hour holter monitor as a check up (3 weeks post ablation).  I really don't have any palps just once or twice a blip so it will be interesting to find out what it says.  Yes, I agree everyone should seek out the best EP they can.  My particular EP here in St. Paul, MN was the first Dr. to do them for PVC's (which I had)  and has done thousands of them.  In fact, they are building him a new Cath lab just for his work.  My experience is that everyday the full feeling in my chest and back got better and better.  Good luck to all!

[RC1982]

Hello,
   I am a 27 year old male who just had my 3rd ablation done on 11-10-09. My second ablation was on 9-01-09 and my first was 11 years ago. My first one went very well but the last two haven't been that great. After the second ablation I felt fine for about a week then here we go again. I know my last ablation was only 3 days ago but I was feeling great until today and guess what my heart rate hasn't been below 100 all day. My resting heart rate is staying around 110 and going up around 130 when I get up and just walk around. Anyone else have these same problems or is it likely that my fast heart rate is back?

[OLCPASTOR]

I'm 72, and have had frequent episodes of a-fib for about 15 years. I usually convert in 12-18 hours, but recently had one lasting 44 hours.
Have been on heart-rate meds (Benicar & Tiazac) for several years, but it seems the meds are less effective now. (Besides, just got word from insurance company that only 1/2 of the Benicar dosage will be paid for beginning Jan 2010!) I am on warfarin as well.

I, as are most posting on this thread, am very symptomatic to the a-fib. When I go into a-fib it wakes me (if I am asleep) and when I convert to SR, it wakes me as well. An episode leaves me extremely fatigued.

Cardiologist gave me two options--Tikosyn or Multaq--and ablation.

From what I've read on this thread and what research I've been able to do regarding Tikosyn, I am not eager for that drug therapy. Multaq is a relatively new drug that is contraindicated for just about everything, but supposedly is receiving rave reviews for those things not contraindicated. ???

Just beginning the research relative to where to have the ablation done, with the choices being Duke University, Wake Forest Baptist, or locally where the procedure has only been done for the past two or three weeks. I am not as concerned about the local Dr. (a recent transplant from Birmingham) as I am about the local hospital facility's capability. It is a good hospital, but not a "teaching facility."

Of course, as with lawyers, all doctors are "practicing" anyway !

Comments from each of you that is farther down the road on the ablation issue will be appreciated.

OLCPastor

[ccic]

I am on Tikosyn and just to let you know Multaq is NOT new on the drug field.  It has been out for 10 plus years and has been pulled from use at least once.  In clinicals the trial was haulted because the patients with a history of heart attack, heart failure and a fes other things drop died.  Tikosyn is guarded by the pharm. that makes it for safety reasons.  It does have bad sideeffects like kidney and liver failure but Multaq has the same.  Only certain cardiologist can give Tikosyn, and only certain pharmacies can dispense it.  
I have had 2 ablation, my 2nd 6 weeks ago lasted 12 and a half hours, and left me with a irregular heart beat and tachycardia, but no where near the 225 that I had with my atrial fib. and flutter.  I will stay on Tikosyn for 4 months or until it no longer works, we are trying to let my heart heal enough to put a defib. in, in January or Feb.  
I am 45, and have only had atrial fib since last January.  This has been a very long year, I miss work, and I miss my life.

[OLCPASTOR]

Thanks for the info about your experience. Present meds are doing a relatively good job of controlling my heart rate, but the a-fib definitely impacts my life and work. At this point, I'm leaning toward the ablation. It it is a fix, I prefer that over more drugs for the rest of my life.

I have found it difficult to find any info on Multaq. I appreciate your info on that. It would seem not (to be) a viable option if I am to keep preaching and pastoring. I will accept Divine Healing, but the surgeon may be His Hand Extended to effect that.

It's Monday and I look forward to converting to SR sometime today.

[Nateyz2000]

I am a 27 year old male and just had eps/abilation done on November 6th. I have been feeling really weak the last 3 days, chest discomfort, and just feel lazy. I Have been a very active person all my life, and am in great health and shape. I used to get dizzy and lightheaded when working out, pounding heart, chest pains, and so on. I feel too lazy to take a deep breath now! My heart went from 68bpm to almost 260bpm in a split second, and then returned to normal just as fast as it started. I am now a bit worried to even get my heart rate up. This constant lingering chest pain, heaviness is getting to me. Anyone else have similiar problems? Any advice?
Nate

[Nateyz2000]

I am a 27 year old male and just had eps/abilation done on November 6th. I have been feeling really weak the last 3 days, chest discomfort, and just feel lazy. I Have been a very active person all my life, and am in great health and shape. I used to get dizzy and lightheaded when working out, pounding heart, chest pains, and so on. I feel too lazy to take a deep breath now! My heart went from 68bpm to almost 260bpm in a split second, and then returned to normal just as fast as it started. I am now a bit worried to even get my heart rate up. This constant lingering chest pain, heaviness is getting to me. Anyone else have similiar problems? Any advice?
Nate

[2010momof7]

I am a 46 year old mom of 7.    For about 10 years I've had an extra beat and for about 3 years I've had supraventricular tachycardia (racing heart).  3 days ago I had an ablation under general anesthesia at Scripps Hospital La jolla with very experienced doctors.  I was told everything went well and stayed the night at the hopsital.  Now I'm home and my blood pressure is low and heart rate is normal.  The only thing I'm noticing is it hurts when I breathe in my chest and up into my neck.  Even small breaths hurt.   I'm hoping it will go away but from what I've read it lasts for month for some people.  has anyone had it last for just a short time.  i'm hoping it' due to the surgery and just normal aches and pains after a surgery.

[kw6]

21yr old male had ablation due wpw. I am very active, played sports my whole life and i go to the gym 5 days a week. I never really had problems accept for minor rapid heart rate which i got used to becouse it happened frequently and i did not know what was normal. 1 week from my 21st birthday and around the time i was in the best shape of my life i had a really bad attack.i was trying to sleep one night and my heart just all of a sudden went crazy. it scared me so bad i threw off all my covers and couldn't relax the whole night. At one point my heart rate got so fast it put me on my knees and i could not breath. That was the one time in my life i thought i was going to die. i didn't even go to the er after that becouse i thought i was fine becouse i was so healthy and could not think of anything happening to me at 20yrs old. After that i did not sleep at all for 24hours and the attack did not end. i ended up thinking i was going crazy and could not stop shaking.i did not say anything to anyone becouse i was so uncomfotable about it.  These were probably the two worst days of my life. After consulting with my parents they finally made me go to the er after i was having another bad attack the next night. Within 10 minutes in the er i was told i had wpw and needed to have an ablation immediately becouse it was at a life threatning point. They told me my heart rate at times was around 250-300bpm. i was rushed to reno and had a successful ablation. Now after the ablation i have had very bad emotional and anxiety problems. I am only six weeks from the ablation and i have irregular heart beats every once in a while and tachycardia sometimes but does not last for more than 10 minutes. Most the time i feel hopeless and just sick. I don't know if this is all just in my head or if anyone else has experienced this. I also get bad chills sometimes and i just don't feel normal. I have good and bad days. The gym and just being social helps me alot. My parents always seem to calm me down and i really don't know what i would do without them. I hope it will fade in time and i can just live my life again.

[dozzy]

Hi folks, I'm a 33 year old female and I had my ablation on the 4th of December 2009 for SVT. I was awake throughout and it only took about 45 mins. I had mine done at St Georges hospital in London. They went through the groin which was a little painful and they did 5 freezes. Apparently the freezing prosedure isnt as painful as the burning. I had suffered SVT for 9 years and was rushed to resuss several times. One time they had to stop and restart my heart which was very uncomfortable but the result was instant and a much welcomed relief from the heavy chest pains I was feeling. My heart would race over 200 bpm during an SVT and the feelings were dreadful.


Since the ablation I have been a little breathless from time to time and as explained to me, my heart has tried to start an SVT many times but as of yet, has not managed to. I do feel tired sometimes but thats to be expected...It's still early days but with the help of God I beleive I'll be ok...

I wish you all the very best and hope you all make speedy recoveries. God bless you all ...xx

[hp101]

Had my ablation for a-fib about a month ago at Brigahm & Women's in Boston. Dr, is chief of arrythmia dept, world-renowned, and a professor at Harvard Medical School. I started with a-fib about 10 years ago but thought everybody had it. I go in and out 2-5 times a day and can feel every beat and irregularity as if my heart is having convulsions. I always know when it's about to start - it starts "turning somersaults" an dthen erratically piunds in every direction like something is trying to break out of it and my chest will explode. I started to get the syncope (passing out) every few days and finally saw someone. Found a combination of pills that helped (old-school flecanaide and pindalol) but every pill causes serious constipation issues! I was also on a 325mg aspirin daily.
Well, OF COURSE my hair started to fall out last spring and it turns out I also have Graves disease. Though unrelated, it does cause hyper-thyroidism which causes a-fib. If you already got a-fib it doesn't matter what drug they give you - it ain't gonna help! So now add 3 thyroid pills/day to the mix.Now I'm on max doses of rate and rythm pills and had the ablation. Also on Warfarin. I cam eon this site because after a month I have chest pain every minute and lie awake at night thinking I'm having a heart attack. Should I go for an appointment or ride it out? Thyroid is in normal range rigt now so it's not that.

[Wierzawice105]

Hi

I had my typical atrial flutter ablation two weeks ago.
They said it was succesful.I still have mild pain in my left side of my chest.I sill take atenolol 25 g. and 325 aspirin.I had my echo done today and my ECG they said that everythink is ok.I warry about this pain and I can not stop thinking about it.Ablation was done in NYU Medical Center in Manhattan.

[2010momof7]

I had an ablation on 2 spots on Dec 28, 2009 (see my dec 31, 2009 entry above).  I'm a little over 1.5 weeks into my recovery and have had some chest pain (radiating down my left shoulder blade and arm), some racing of the heart in the middle of the night which wakes me up and some early beats up until today.  Today I had 2 hours of significant early/extra beats in the morning and they continued well into the evening.  I called my cardiologist at scripps and he said it is normal to have extra electrical charges.  The heart is trying to resume it's old pattern but then runs into the ablated areas and freaks out basically.  Nothing to worry about.  He said caffeine, alcohol and getting tired and trigger these episodes.  I had a champagne last night and two cups of tea today and probably did more than i should work wise today, which explain why it happened to me.  So i'm cutting out the caffeine and alcohol and going to take it easy.  My doctor says this can go on for 3-6 months.  Nothing to be alarmed about though it is exhausting to have these episode as it's like a bad case of the hiccups and takes my breath away.  

[nursecrnp]

I have a cardiac ablation 6 weeks ago. My first 4 weeks were great, no chest pain no AF. The past 3 weeks I have chest pains and HR up to 140. Uncomfortable chest pains . The physician office informed  me to go to the ER.. Well the ER never gives me any medications, just observe me and I can monitor my heart rate and my husband can call 911. The only thing I can see is maybe my heart valves are not completely healed. It jhas been an uncomfortable pain practically all day.

[VAdamsxo]

Im 21 years old went to have breast augmentation and my hr was 180 so they sent me to the ER...cancelled surgery>>.then after many test found out I had AFIB (1% of 2million ppl get this under 50) then I found out I also had flutter. So long story short went thru tons of meds was on 180mg cardism 50mg flecanide twice a day and warafin 5mg. It was tough being so young dealing with so many abumlance rides and long hospital stays i spent most of Nov.09 in 2 diff hospitals. Went thru 3 different caridologist till I found one that actually wanted to do an ablation instead of put me in med journals and study me. I had my ablation yesterday 1-13-2010. It was horrible! The scariest thing ever for sure. They went through both legs and neck...then the nurse couldnt get my right groin area to stop bleeding...it took about 4 hrs...I layed still between surgery and recovery for 16 hrs...my legs eventually went numb. I couldn't move my right one at all!! I didnt understand why it wouldn't move when my brain signaled it too. It was crazy...my right leg is 2x the size of my left they call it hemotoma...its soo bruised it looks really bad. My only problem really has been the pressure in my neck.....IT SO PAINFUL! It feels like I have a sore throat,a really sore one. And like I can't breathe real well when I lie down or move it to quickly.

But my surgery so far has been a success!!! I was only in surgery for 3 hrs and 20min....had the best doctor ever!!! Ali Akbary was my suregon. When he told me I would be fine and he was sure this would work he was right. I still thank God more than any doctor thou! I had strong faith and lots of prayers.

My 22 birthday is on the Jan.15,2010 tomorrow! Its crazy how scared I was and how much pain Im in but this has been the best birthday present ever!!!

Victoria

[bhasan01]

Hello All!!

I am soooo glad I found this website. I was feeling as if I was the only one going through this ordeal.
My son who is 11, underwent ablation for silent WPW on 3rd of Dec 2009.
He did not have any wpw symptoms but we decided to get the ablation as per the docs advice ( Dr Karpawich- DMC detroit)

Although the surgery and recovery were fine... my son has been complaining of pain in his left chest area on and off. Once the pain was so severe( he described it as if something had burst in his chest) that I callled 911 and they took him to ER. His blood pressure was high too( could have been from the stress)

Anyway... they could not find anything wrong with him that day and we were sent home. This event was on 3rd of Jan. He is still complaining of pain every other day which is very distressing. I am on my toes scared that he might call me from school in pain.

He says that he wants the pain to go away and have life back like before surgery. Please please Help me. What should I do. He has had a stress test and EKg since the abation........ nothing shows.
But the pain is very real.... I can see it in his eyes........ he is in pain.

Any advice would be appreciated. I am at my wits end.......
Thanks
Cindy

[worriedmother15]

Before I read this blog I  felt fairly confident that my daughter's scheduled ablation in a few months would be a breeze.  Now I am having second thoughts!!!
We have consulted with several top electrophysiologists and they seem to all agree that the procedure should be done.  She has WPW and has had only a few episodes of something like SVT.  She does irish step dancing, is very active and is an otherwise healthy 15 year old.  
We are considering having Dr. Mark Josephson(Boston, Mass) do this procedure.  He is tops in this field and apparently wrote the manual on this procedure many years ago.
Does anyone know of him or has had an ablation done by him?
I am shocked to hear of so many after-surgery problems that have resulted after these ablations.  I'm am totally rethinking this!!
Any comments???

[clairebear182]

Hello everyone, I have just come back from an ablation. I am getting quite bad chest pains in the center on my chest. After the procedure, I felt very nautious and my blood pressue dropped. i had to be pumped with a saline solution. i soon came round but right now i am very pale and week. i've had about 8 small palpatations today since the procedure. the chest pain in the worst element. and to make matters worse, the didn't ablate successfully and i will need to have another. i'm quite scared right now, i dont know how im going to sleep tonight.

[lelaine]

This certainly has been an eye opening experience reading all of these comments! I had no idea that there were so many issues after having an ablation, & I'm sorry I didn't read these comments before having my first two. I just got out of the hospital from my 2nd procedure (for WPW) two days ago. The first one did not work, and I had an episode much easier than I had in the past. The doctor set me up for the 2nd procedure, and told me that he would go in from the left and poke a hole in the center of my heart to getthrough. He felt there would be a 90 - 95% chance that it would work this time. That same day after the procedure, I had my worst episode ever, thankfully right in the hospital. Now my doctor wants me to go to another city and have a 3rd procedure, this time from a completely different angle, and he feels that the extra "nerve bundle" in my heart must be running up the outside of my heart. However, since the 2nd ablation I feel like I have a huge weight inside my chest & abdomen, I am out of breath just sitting here, and I am now worried that these symptoms will not go away. Before these two ablations, I was in excellent health, other than having to take heart meds to keep my heart rate down. I am 58 years old, but my doctor told me that my arteries and everything else in my heart are "pristine." Now I feel like an invalid, and again, if this goes away, okay. But if not, what have I let them do to me? I do not know what to do about the 3rd procedure now, and appreciate all of the feedback I can get from you all.

[LaraWcroft]

Hello,
I just had an ablation for my SVT's  om Feb 16th and up to this point  have not had one problem (keep fingers crossed). I have felt great. You would never know I was just in the hospital having my heart messed with. I was a bit tired the next day but I blame that on the anesthesia. I really just want to get up and go back to normal but doc said to lay around for 5 days.. I had SVT's for 5 years landing in the hospital about 15 and having to receive adenosine 5 of the times (horrible). I guess I should feel blessed at this point and continue to pray I stay on this course. I had doctors from U of M in Michigan preform the ablation. I wish everyone a speedy recovery, I know how scary all of this can be. Take Care

[Steph2626]

I had an ablation for AVNRT on Nov. 30, 2009. They had to go through my neck to do it because when they entered the vein in my leg my heart rate jumped to 255. They had to go to the left side of my heart in the back area. They said I was burned six times. They gave me a 96% cure rate. I had to stay over night. I was sent home on Tuesday. On Wednesday, I was told to go to the ER because I was having vision problems, my left arm hurt, I had chest pain and my hand was tingling. They said I could have had a stroke. All tests for that came back negative. I am still having discomforting pain in my heart. I was told oit is just my heart healing. Now, I am getting the problem swallowing and a lump in my throat, which is how all my SVT started. The other day, I got that feeling and then it felt like my heart just flipped in my chest. I have been cured according to my cardiologists. I am wonderin gif there isn't something else going on in there. I am glad to see it is not just me. I feel like sometimes everyone thinks I am making all this stuff up. I hate that I am tire often. I am short of breath just walking. I have toddlers and find it hard to keep up because I get tired easily. I usually have to take a nap with them.  I was a pretty healthy 29 yr old before this. Now I am just too tired to do a whole lot.

[oldgirl30]

hi my name is maria,i have svt and ist and have for 8 years iv tried all the meds which were unsucsessful and have had 4 ablation which to didnt work,i am currently on ivabradine which helps a bit,but can totaly relate to all of your posts,i have chest pain,tiredness,breathless,fatigue,and dizzyness,i have been told that theonly cure is to do a complete sinis node ablation to destroy the hearts pace maker and fit an artificial pacemaker.i to have a one year old to look after which makes it very difficult i have very limited tolorence to any exersise due to palpitations and pain,and cant work either  

[ltomich001]

I had an ablation on February 26, 2010 for AVNRT that I lived with for almost 18 years, first attack after giving birth to my son. I was tired for a few weeks post-surgery. Twice in 4 weeks after surgery I fell asleep and woke up about an hour later with at least a sinus tachycardia (but not my normal SVT) and feeling like my heart was beating oddly. I'm hoping my heart is still settling down as they both happened within the first month after surgery. I was a bit panicked and worried that my SVT's were back and I went to the ER and my heart rate was around 110 but the EKG looked good. I am on a one week heart moniter now just to be sure everything is OK. I still get PAC's here and there and I automatically think I'm having an SVT because after 18 years it's a natural reaction I guess. Adenosine gave me a few episodes of ventricular tachycardia so I will be happy not to need drugs to bring my heart down anymore. I am considering my SVT a success though at this point because with AVNRT my heart was always over 160 and usually 180 - 230 and bringing it down was tough without adenosine for me. I feel espicially with AVNRT which is the most curable SVT with ablation most everyone should do it. The condition gets worse with age it seems, sure did for me. I am 51 and the month before I turned 50 (probably menopausal) I felt like I was going to have an SVT at any time and I had probably 20 - 30 in the next 7 months. Finally found a good doctor here in KC that really impressed me at the first hospital in the country that had the EP Cockpit. I feel there are good doctors all over the country but you do have to screen them well. I do feel ablation is still the best choice after suffering for 18 years. Best Wishes to everyone!

[efe1950]

I'm a 60 yr. old man.  I've been an active long-distance cyclist my entire life and have a resting heart rate in the low 50's but since my mid 40's I've had SVT from exercise and sometimes randomly.  I could usually control it with carotid artery massage but in the last year it became too much to deal with and harder to control.  I was worried about the possibility of having to have a pacemaker implanted if ablation affected the AV node.  I had the EP study done in 06 with the stipulation that if there was a risk of pacemaker to not do the ablation.  Well, there was a risk so the procedure was not completed. But the SVT got worse and I had the ablation (RF) for SVT yesterday at St. Joseph Mercy in Ann Arbor performed by Dr. Han. It was a success even though the abnormal pathway was near the AV node. The procedure took about 1.5 hours.  Sorry to hear others had to spend so much more time to complete their procedure.  Today I'm at home taking it easy.  The only after affects I'm noticing are some slight chest congestion and an mild ache in the chest and the usual groin soreness from three venous punctures for the catheters. BP and heart rate seem normal.  It will be a couple of weeks before I can go out on my bike and stress my heart.  I'm hoping for the best.  I chose my physician based on his record of having to implant a pacemaker. Over his 6 years of performing the operation on 1500 patients he has not had to implant even one. That gave me confidence to go ahead.

[sicko56]

Does anyone know about Oshner Heart Hospital in New Orleans? I am going to have an EP study next month but after reading some of these post I am about ready to change my mind.

[cp556]

59 yo female, just had third SVT ablation.  First two in 2008 by local electrophysiologist.  Unsuccessful, and I was on Sotalol 80mg BID for two years.  When SVT recurred earlier this year, I was referred to Dr Wharton at Medical U of SC in Charleston.  He's one of the top in the nation and specializes in ablations and arrythmias.  I cannot speak highly enough of this man and his team.
My third ablation was three days ago and although I have chest discomfort (to be expected) the SVTs are GONE and I am not on any heart meds.  After my previous ablations I was immediately placed on Sotalol ... not this time.  I feel blessed.
I would echo other posters' comments that ablations should be done by someone who does many of them ... not a local EP who does a few a month.  Experience is important, in my opinion.

[N3v3rfad3]

Hi im Chelsea im 17 years old and I have the same problem BUT I found out I have WPW which is rare I guess...But for a year or so they didnt find anything until I had a irregular rhythm in my heart when I went in for panic attack and back spasms and they had to monetor my heart for the rest of the night. Cause my chart was all ****** up and they didnt know why until I got another EKG done and it did it again. But they said that I was born with it and they couldnt find anything and they didnt see any problems until a specialist came and did a check up on me and they said there was something wrong with my heart. And I was suppose to get a surgery done and they couldnt do it cause it was too dangerous so now I have to live with it and my anxiety which make the both worse. and I might have to take pills in the future to get it under control. So you should ask your doctor about WPW cause it is possible? Cause I have it and im only 17 and I already have health problems and your 29 so it really is possible.  

[makaylajensen]

Hi everyone!
My name is Makayla  and i am 15 years old and i just had my second heart ablation for SVT 3 days ago. My friend jumped onto me yesterday (2days after the procedue) and ever since i have had chest pains and strong beats. The first ablation i had the doctors found two spots in my heart that contributed towards by SVT. That was In feb of '10). Only a month later i was awakened in the middle of the night at a friends house by an episode of SVT. I then continued to have about one episode a day every day up until 3 days ago. (the procedure) I even had them 3 times a day. Im not sure if her jumping had anything to do with the chest pains and i am afraid that my mom and the doctors are just going to say that it's normal. or that it's just swelling. I am not sure what to do. Can anybody help me??

[lelaine]

It's difficult, I know. I posted in February that I was having problems after my 2nd ablation, with pain and fatigue, even hard to breathe at times. It was unsuccessful, as well, and I was worse off afterward, than I was before. The pain and difficulty with breathing eventually went away, and on March 23rd of this year I had my 3rd ablation done. This time I went to a specialist in Phoenix, who does the more difficult procedures as a matter of routine. My problem area was hidden away in a blood vessel in the center of my heart, very hard to reach, and very stubborn. It caused me to have WPW, due to that extra nerve bundle which caused my heartbeat to speed up to ridiculous rates, and I had suffered with the condition for nearly 30 years. But this specialist was fast, went right to the spot, and used very high heat in order to reach the end of the nerve bundle through the muscle tissue. When I woke up, I could feel that my heart was normal for the first time I could remember. By the end of the day, I was up and walking around, and did not feel fatigued at all, and felt ALMOST like nothing had been done to me! Talk about a difference of night and day. I think that if a procedure is difficult to do, that the doctor spends a lot more time "zapping" your heart, and that probably is why sometimes a person feels so terrible afterward, and takes more time to heal. It took until my 3rd procedure to get it right, and get off of heart medicine. People at work noticed right away how different I seemed, and even how I breathed differently. I do recommend that if you continue to have problems, that you see a specialist who is known for their work in this field, it can make all the difference!

[YamaBlonde]

Well, 3 days from now I will be in the midst of my ablation. Wednesday, 5th of May)

Still reminding myself this should be a "walk in the park" compared to the aortic valve replacement I had a bit over 3 years ago.

But I admit I am still apprehensive, since they can't totally knock me out for this.

Do others remember the procedure being done, being aware of what the doctors were doing at the time?

Hugs from England,
Debb

[Machados_patient]

I have been suffering from bouts of PSVT since I was seven years old. I'm now 46.  But, I didn't know exactly what it was until late 2007 when for the first time in 36 years an episode lasted long enough for me to get an EKG.  My grandfather also suffered from SVT episodes, but he died of lung cancer from chain smoking at the age of 84, so I feared smoking far more than the SVT.

In March of this year, I decided to take the EKG printout to the EP I had seen about 6 years ago.  He took one look at it and said, "You've got AVNRT, and you need an ablation."  I searched the Internet, found this message board, read dozens of posts, and decided, well, it's time to schedule the RF ablation.

My EP/surgeon/anesthesiologist is Dr. Machado of Providence Hospital in Southfield, MI.  He is well respected in this area, and does about 6 ablation procedures per week.

I had the RFA on April 14, 2010.  It took 3 hours.  Just prior to the procedure, one of the surgical team came to the prep room to talk to me.  I told them, you know, I never get these attacks from being scared or angry.  When I was younger, it always happened when I was happy, excited, or elated.  Then, when I made a downward movement, BAM, my heart rate would jump to 200 bpm with a quivery feeling at first, later resolving to must a fast, hard beat.  This would last anywhere from a few seconds to half an hour.  Vagal maneuvers never worked.  It would just go through this sequence, and just return to normal as suddenly as it started.  Recently, it has come on spontaneously, from road vibrations while driving, intestinal gas moving around, or just out of the blue.  I've had many years to make observations about my problem, and one thing I tried to tell them was that after having a fast heart rate, for whatever reason, I would feel great.  And, I would be for all practical purposes, immune from an attack for several days.  (I used to run a couple of miles per day back in high school, and this seemed to prevent attacks.)

When they first inserted the electrodes, the SVT started.  Makes sense to me since there seemed to be a physical sensitivity.  But then, for the next three hours, they tried and tried and tried to reproduce the condition.  Also makes sense to me since my own observations were that after a fast rate, the problem would not come back.  It was soon apparent that I did NOT in fact AVNRT.  That would be too simple.  I turns out, I has "Automatic Atrial Tachycardia" (AAT).  Dr. Machado seemed confident that he was eventually able to induce the arrhythmia, able to find the source for the signal, the cells that were going rogue and taking over, and ablate the area.  But I had my doubts.  I'm sure he found something, but I'm not sure he found it all.

The procedure itself went much like many others have described.  I was not awake for most of it, however, I was awake for some parts.  Sometimes, in order to induce the arrhythmia, there is no way around it, you can't be heavily sedated.  I remember when the mapping electrodes were inserted in the vein in my right groin area and when they reached my heart.  I remember the fast heart rate, and some of the pacing procedure.   Post procedure problems were mostly due to the puncture wounds in my for the catheters, and a huge bruise that went half way down to my knee.  Not really a big deal since bruises will heal.  About 18 hours after the RFA, I had a few hours of what-the-hell-was-that? heartbeats.  I don't know if the were PVCs or PACs or what.  For the most part, those have been much less frequent than the day after, but more frequent than prior to the procedure.

It wasn't fun and I wouldn't recommend doing it without good cause.  But if there is good cause and your EP recommends it, don't hesitate.

Now for the more discouraging problems.  My heart rate prior to the RFA was about 100 bpm.  I was taking 50mg of atenolol per day, and 2400mg of fish oil (it's said to reduce the heart rate by a couple percent).  On both of these, my heart rate would be in the 60's.  Last night was my 17th day post procedure.  After feeling quite recovered, spending a weekend in Las Vegas, working all day pushing a lawn mower, hacking away at overgrown brush at the back of my property, I sat down to watch some TV before going to bed.  At 11 p.m. I had what I could only describe as an SVT attack.  It only lasted a couple of seconds.  When my wife checked my pulse, she said it was about 124 bpm.  My blood pressure was also somewhat elevated.  Again tonight at about 8:30, I had another one.  It was almost like it was trying to go into the full-blown SVT mode, but it didn't quite get there.

I still have to take the atenolol and the fish oil.  I don't know how the fast heart rate figures in to my problems.  Is it a separate issue, or is it related.  I will be going back to Dr. Machado for a follow-up on Tuesday.

I will post a follow-up several months from now for anyone interested in knowing how things turn out.  I noticed that most people seem to be very prolific when they are searching for info and prior to their procedure, but few return to say how things went after a year, unless their problem comes back.

Well, I guess that's enough for tonight.  Time to go take my meds.

[Davey2001]

Wow.....this is nice.  Seems this ablation is done all the time now.  Me on the other hand, I had mine done in 1993 and 1995.  If i remember correctly, I was the first or second boy to have this procedure done.  It was done at Egelston's Childrens Hospital in Ga.  The doctor had to come down from Boston.  I feel fine now.  

[YamaBlonde]

Hi, Everyone!

Well, I had my ablation (PVI) on Wednesday, nearly 48 hours ago, and I am in sinus rhythm for nearly 48 hours too!  It has been a while since I have had 48 hours straight in sinus, and no AF at all!  So this seems more than promising!

I came home last night (Thursday), and although tired -- to be expected, of course -- I am positive and finally looking forward to better days! I might even be able to get out and ride my motorcycle in 10 days or so!

Yes, I do have some chest discomfort -- not pain! -- but after all, they have been poking and prodding and burning sections of my heart, so obviously there must be some swelling.  I am taking an over-the-counter analgesic called PARACETAMOL (not available in the US, but it is here in England), which is somewhat similar in its pain-relief ability to ibuprofen I think. And that seems to be handling it quite well.

While the discomfort (I can't really call it "pain" because it isn't painful) is there, it doesn't bother me a lot either... I am just aware of it.  I have a VERY low threshold of pain, by the way, so I imagine this wouldn't hardly bother some other folks at all!

I do feel a bit of "heaviness" in my chest, but again, the area is no doubt swollen, so I am sure the lungs' space to inflate is a bit inhibited. On the other hand, I was told not to exert myself, so I really shouldn't be doing anything that requires a load more oxygen anyway!

In this country, one is told not to drive for a week. And of course, the requisite no lifting, no heavy housework (what a shame, huh?), etc.

I did seep a bit from my entry site (femoral vein, of course), but that stopped once I laid totally still with that leg straight, had some more pressure applied, and didn't budge for a little longer.

All things considered, I wish I had had this done sooner!  I was so scared -- more than apprehensive at times -- and so worried that I would feel the procedure!  I was almost totally out for probably 98 or 99% of the time!  I do recall "waking up" and feeling some heavy discomfort, never horrid pain, but I told them, and I was out again only moments later.

A reminder to all, which backs up what others have posted here: get the best electrocardiologist you can, one who does these procedures TONS!  My doctors do it all the time, 2-3 a day, 4-5 days a week, all year (except vacations of course!  LOL). This is ALL they do - procedures for arrhythmia.

By the way, I lost 6 pounds since I went in hospital, another positive side effect, though I wouldn't recommend this as a way to lose weight! (A little humour relief, anyone?)

Anyway, off to get some rest.  Feel free to contact me if you like -- I would love to offer emotional support to anyone who wants/needs it.

With loads of hugs from "across the pond"
Debb XOX

[YamaBlonde]

72 hours since ablation -- no pain meds needed at all (I was only taking an over-the-counter analgesic anyway, similar to ibuprofen in strength).  Very little discomfort, barely noticeable at the worst of times. With a very low threshold of pain, I consider this basically non-existent.

AND STILL IN SINUS RHYTHM! Can't remember when I last was in sinus for 3 days straight!  The real test to me will be day 12.  Since last summer, I have not had 12 continuous sinus rhythm days at all.  Twice only, I had 11 days in a row, but that was it. And the last few weeks prior to the ablation (Pulmonary Vein Isolation), I didn't even have 24 hours straight sinus. WHAT A LOVELY IMPROVEMENT ALREADY!

I can take about 95% of my usual deepest breath, and do not get winded walking across the house any more. (I actually noticed this improvement last night.)

Of course, no lifting, no heavy housework etc. I do find I am a bit more tired than usual, but that itself has lessened since the day after the procedure (Wednesday morning).

Boy, am I ever glad I did this,  and that I got past my apprehension (fear was more like it)!

Debb, from the UK

[56txoval]

I had an ablation done on April 29th, 2010 for SVT's. It was a relatively simple procedure that only lasted about 2 hours once I was wheeled into the procedure room. The hardest part of the procedure was about half way through I felt an enormous amount of pressure being applied to my right groin. My hands clinched and I wanted to pull my legs up into my chest. The nurse asked if I was OK and I replied back: Do I look OK? She then said that maybe I needed a bit more sedative and I replied: You mean to tell me that you have been giving me some all along...LOL??? After that brief exchange, I felt some discomfort in my chest area and then fell asleep.

I am a 55 year old male with no previous heart issues. My current issues are that I am experiencing periodic sharp pains around the heart area similiar to what the original poster mentioned back in 2007. I also feel a little less energetic than I did prior to the procedure. I have also experienced discomfort around the groin area since the procedure was completed.

Based on what I have read here, these symptons are probably not uncommon. I am glad that I found this thread. Good luck to any future patients that require the heart ablation procedure.

[YamaBlonde]

Good Morning, Everyone.

I had nearly 4 consecutive days of sinus rhythm after my ablation (PVI) , and had 2 days of on and off AF. Much milder than before -- more like a "stutter" in a way, not the THUMPING I used to get, so that is much better. I hadn't seen TWO consecutive days of sinus in I-dunno-how-long before this!

I admit I was getting a bit anxious, having had so many hours of sinus; I was kind of "thrown for a loop" as I was not expecting any AF at all. I know, I know, the docs said I could experience some AF over the next 3 months, even if the ablation is successful. Guess I got a bit too.... hmm, not sure what word I want... complacent somehow? Nothing wrong with being optimisitic, needless to say, but I suppose I decided I would stay in sinus forever now, having had 90+ hours of terrific heart rhythm in a row!

The AF on day 5 felt strong-ish but no real heavy thumping. I think the anxiety and bit of fear (we all want it to work the first time, true?) caught me off guard. I really expected I could take it in stride if I had some AF, especially since I am armed with some pretty good knowledge and have, I thought, realistic expectations.

I suppose that the body must secrete hormones/chemicals when in AF (I imagine cortisol, and maybe adrenaline too, but have not yet specifically looked this up on the Net -- has anyone?), and perhaps all the feelings I had were exacerbated by the rush of my body secreting these into my blood stream.

Yesterday (Wednesday, day 7 since the procedure), I was in a terrific sinus rhythm all day and got loads done.  Felt more than optimistic actually -- I felt fantastic!  The incision site is closed up nicely (though there is the expected bruising and lump), and my other black-and-blue bruises from needles, etc. are turning yellow, so all is healing well.

I figured -- WOW! 5 out of 7 days in sinus, what a great start!  I awoke at 6 am with some AF, not super bad, but I was aware of it, as I have always felt it more when lying down. I went back to sleep and awoke at 7:30 back in sinus. So far, so good.  :)

We shall see what this day brings.  But still, all in all, things are much improved. I pray the scar tissue forms where it's needed and that, in less than 3 months, I am one of those that gets relief from the AF and sees a return to my busy and fun-filled Life once again.

I miss riding my motorcycle, and with more sunny days lately (not as common here in the UK as other areas, believe me), I want to get out and enjoy things as soon as I can!

Wishing everyone a fabulous end-of-the-week and upcoming weekend,
Debb X

[Evie720]

I had my 2nd ablation Tuesday so I'm 2 days post op. I have extreme fatigue and a heaviness in my chest. I have some feelings of "skipped" beats and am a little dizzy. Before my procedure, passing out was normal for me. Hopefully this all passes, I dont remember feeling like this after the 1st ablation 3 yrs ago.

[ncdassoc]

Hi, I am new to this forum. I had an ablation done the end of March 2010. I have been back to the ER 2 times since with rapid heart rate also keep telling doctors since the obaltion have been breathless, tired and chest pains. I also suffer from left side weakness, I was examined and was told that it would go away with time. I feel worse now than when I had the ablation. The doctor calls it a proceedure, I call it surgery. Just to find out that they went into both sides of my groin and 2 sites in my left arm, I was on the operating table for a little over 4 hours. The doctor in the Er told me that he thinks I had a tiny mini stroke that some small blood clots went into my brain. He also said to me that afib is the hardest thing to treat its a bear he said. he told me the next time I have a high haert rate I will need to come back to the hospital and get my heart shocked into normal sinus rythm and I would have to take a new anti arritmia drug which I can't spell it but very leathal. I am currently on flecinide and corguard. Thanks for your time.ncd

[YamaBlonde]

I had my ablation (PVI) done on the 5th of May 2010, here in England, at one of the best Cardiac Facilities in Europe (I had an aortic valve replacement done there 3 yrs ago, by the way). I was put on a mild does of flecainide as a precaution, only 100 mg a day ( 50mg twice a day), which is about 1/2 the usual dose here.

Like you, I have had some tachycardia (high heart rate -- mine was up around 140 beats per minute for a while) and I went back in hospital too.  This was about 10 days after the ablation; post precedure, I had 4 consecutive days of lovely sinus rhythm, more than I had seen in months!  At hospital, I was given heart rate lowering meds; I do not tolerate beta blockers (like sotalol or bisprolol) so I am on digoxin instead.

My heart rate has settled down a bit -- well under 100 bpm now, and I am much more in sinus rhythm these past nearly-3 weeks than I had been for months prior to the procedure.  By the way, I understand that an elevated heart rate is not at all uncommon after an ablation.

While I had hoped (expected?) I would be perfect afterwards, I do know it can take up to 3 months for the heart to heal, the proper scar tissue to form, and for things to settle down.  I, of course, wanted to be one of those who saw an immediate and permanent correction.  But the doctors told me several times that the first ablation sees between 2 out of 3, and 3 out of 4, who are successful first time around.  Also, that the first procedure can sometimes take care of MOST of the problematic electrical pathways, whereby necessitating a 2nd ablation, which takes care of the "loose ends" as it were.

In any case, I would love to be on of those whose first procedure fixes everything, and while odds are in my/our favour, it is possible that not all the spots were hit.  God willing, everything will settle down for us both/all, and after the 3 months, we will be better than ever.

Meanwhile, I am thrilled that I have some (lots) of general improvement, enjoying sinus rhythm as often as I do.

I would hope however, that if you are still experiencing pain, that they can source it and correct it.  I do know that, for me, when I get scared or anxious, I can feel my chest tighten up a bit. But over time, I have come to recognise when I am going through such a period, and have been learning to relax, so as not to exacerbate the symptoms.

Hugggs to all,
Debb XOX

[StephSteph324]

im 20 years old i had an ablation last week for having to many PVCs  i was under for 8 hours.. i went the ER two days ago for Chest pain they said everything was okay that it has to heal from the surgery thats why im having the pain they said it could last up to 4 weeks the pain is so bad i cant even get up! they told me to take Motrin! it gets worst when i get stress out! but they say its normal! hope you feel better!

[livewire1095]

I just had my 7th ablation two weeks ago.  (ARVD&CHF with an ICD implant)  This is the first time I have ever had the chest pain.  Feels like an elephant is sitting on my chest every time I walk more than a couple of feet.  Some time while doing nothing it acts up too.  My heart is throwing a lot of PVC's as well.  I am hoping all this is just from my heart being irritated and healing from the procedure.  I always go out of town for my ablations.  I just feel comfortable having someone who does several a month do it, as opposed to someone who does it once a year.  Going to see my local doc next week.  He likes to brush things like this off.  After reading all your posts I will make sure he looks into it!

[Airforce21]

Thanks for all your comments.  I had an ablation in late Jan and I am still not 100%.  This helps me the comments because I feel with the chest pains that I am or going to have a heart attack and you can't explain it to those around you because they don't understand.  

I feel bad for the young people in their early teens, 20 & 30's that are having heart conditions.  I am 48 and my procedure/condition began when I was 47.  I don't smoke, drink, and exercise constantly and that was before I got sick.  I am just glad that I am on medication and have not had to get a pacemaker which would cause me to lose my job since I am in the military.    

Well God Bless Everyone,  

[jencha]

I am 46 year old and a mother of a 11 year of girl.  I had my first svt in 2005 and got back in the swing of things the very next day.  After 4 years from the first episode, I had 2 this past year in 2009:  September and November and left me feeling like a truck went over me.  It took me a long time to feel better.  I am supposed to pick a date for my ablation but I am so scared.  I don't know what life will be like after that.  

So I figured I do some research and I came across this string of conversations on post ablation.  In one sense I am happy to know that I am not alone with svt and the other part is that I am left even more scared to go for it.  I am just terrified....I don't know what to do...

[WVKat]

Hello, I just finished reading all the posts.  I am scheduled to have an EP Study and Ablation  Aug. 5th.  I am very nervous about it.

I'm a 47 yr. old female and my doctors have seen PVC's and PAC's and what they told me were short bursts of atrial tachy.  Unfortunatley, I have not been on the monitors when I've had the worst of the irregular beats.  Mine are so erratic.  I'll have a couple of flip flops including very hard thumps and then what feels like humming and this can go back and forth without going into regular rhythm on for 20-30 mins. but starts to straighten up by the time I get to the ER. They can be so severe I can't function for days or weeks then I'll go for awhile without too many problems. Sometimes my heart will feel like it's in slow motion irregular/erratic and I think it will finally seize up.  Does anyone else ever feel so erratic it's hard to explain???

I've been on Corgard 60mg. twice daily for years which has worked best for me after trying many beta blockers for 24 yrs now.  I would love to be free from these arrhythmias but after reading this i'm more concerned now of ending up worse.

I applaude all of you who have posted your experiences here and must tell you how brave you all are.  I feel this problem dictates my whole life, I'm afraid to go anyplace and really dont' enjoy myself due to the fear and depression this causes me.  God Bless you all and I hope everyone of you get the relief you deserve from these debilitating problems.

[TiredCali]

My 47yr old husband just had an ablation done, after two years of increasing A fibs, on 8/10/2010...After he woke up from the procedure, where they cauterized the openings to his pulmonary viens, he experienced incredible back pain from laying flat for well over 12 hours. He spent the night in the hospital on pain meds (fentinol?). Day 2 he experienced such intense chest pain he continued the pain meds, was treated with an anti-inflamatory, and stayed another night--the vicodin they were going to send us home hadn't helped at all. Day 3 the pain had reduced enough for the vicodins to work and we went home in the afternoon. Day 4 He was still tired and out of it but made it until the eve to take any pain meds. We were told to get his caumodin levels checked in the am, and they were lower than expected. Took dose of caumodin after we were given the results later in the day. Severe constipation (hadn't gone since Day 0). Ate several prunes and took some meds to help. Day 5 Woke feeling pain free and talkative, but, once up, started getting severe lightheadedness after trying coffee and breakfast (hoping to relieve the constipation). Small bowel movement. Lightheadedness and headache continued. Emailing Dr's assistant. She said caumodin levels wouldn't affect lightheadedness, but said if we are worried we can recheck them tomorrow, a day sooner than we had planned. And if we were really worried, to go to the ER to make sure he's not having a stroke from a clot.

Wow. I was not ready for this and am not sure what to do. I don't know if I can trust my husband's ability to explain what he's feeling clearly. He is asleep now but was emotional and scared earlier...didn't feel he could hold a conversation (but when he did speak he was clear, not slurred) or even make simple decisions (choosing a TV program for the family to watch together was too stressful). Other symptoms were weird body aches, a mild headache and slight pain in his left shoulder.

He's normally a "tough guy" so I'm a bit unnerved. In my gut I don't think he's had a stroke, but what if I am wrong? I feel I am the only one to make the final decision as to whether he is in need of emergency care, but am not sure if we're just worried for nothing...I don't want to put him through hours and hours of grueling ER treatment/tests for naught...plus it's already been more than 12 hours since he started complaining about the lightheadedness, etc. He took an ativan this eve and now I'm hoping he will wake up in the morning feeling better. Didn't take any pain meds today...and took all the incision bandages off and things look good there...so some improvements. His chest still hurts when he takes a deep breath...

Hopefully he is fine and the ablation worked, because he will *never* want to go through this again (although the medication didn't seem like a great option to continue either). I am amazed so many people have had such pain free procedures while his has been so painful...

I do wish we'd been better warned/prepared about how tough the recovery could be...thought it would only require "taking it easy" and not lifting things 10 lbs or more. And I am really glad we scheduled the procedure carefully, making sure we had adequate coverage at home, with the kids, and work for more time than we initially expected.

Good luck everyone!

[LindaTX]

OMG...I feel for you and your poor husband.  I hope he starts feeling better.  Where did he have his ablation?  I am scheduled for one next month.  I go back and forth over whether to go through with it.  I got by for yrs on anti-arrhythmic meds.  The last couple yrs I've had more and more episodes. Finally stopped my meds last Sept because it seemed they were bringing on my a-fib.  Was fine for a few months but for the past 6 mo. or so I've had weekly episodes of 12-36 hr episodes, and other than feeling short of breath and tired during and a day or two after, I feel fine.  I may have a few PAC's or PVC's once in awhile but no real problems.  I don't know if I could go through what your husband has had to deal with. Like you said...he would probably never do it again.

[YamaBlonde]

Not to make light of, or minimalise in any way, what others have gone through, but I truly believe that (major) post-procedural issues are not as common as they seem to be, when one reads this forum.

I am part of a heart group locally, read as much as I can on heart "stuff" and have spoken with quite a few others who have had an ablation before I did.  Not to imply it is always issue-free, or that there is never any discomfort or pain post-procedure.  And hopefully, everyone's doctor is upfront about the success rate, possible complications/issues, etc. I feel my doctors were 100% straight with me.

I knew, going in, that the success rate is approx 75-80% the first ablation.  It seems it depends largely on how many areas need to be dealt with, and what can be seen when the heart is "mapped" at that time.  Sometimes every little area can not be seen and repaired, so there may be additional treatment needed.  To my understanding, a 2nd ablation increases success to 95-98%, or something like that.

Given the lack of quality of Life I had experienced this past year, I felt an ablation was a necessity, not a choice for me.  I was tired of not being able to walk anywhere, afraid I would go into AF or worse; in fact, just prior to going in for the ablation, I was having an AF episode every day, lasting for several hours.  I lived in constant fear and anxiety in the months leading up to my ablation.

Keep in mind, please, that I had done a lot of research, and also spoken with many who have had this procedure -- live chat, not just online or thru forums, etc.. and again, not to minimalise that type of contact.  Those with whom I spoke were in the US and UK both (as I live in the UK now, but am from the States originally).  And without an exception, all those who felt very positive about having had it done, were all seen and treated by a VERY experienced EP, one who does hundreds each year, not a few a month.  My own EP is part of a team that does 300 per year.  And while I know this is not a guarantee, it surely must have affected outcome and odds in my favour.

That said, I also think (my opinion only -- take it or leave it) is that many, if not most, folks who come and interact on a forum may be more than curious. Yes, curiosity -- and fear -- first brought me to this one, as well as 2 others.

But it makes sense to me that those who have problems, issues, and/or complications may continue returning here to visit and comment.  Again, please know that I am not trying to trivialise their problems, which are all real, valid, and upsetting (an understatement, I am sure).

I suppose that it is (partly) why I continue to come back and comment.  Not to negate others in any way, but to give a different perspective... one that is positive, while hopefully giving more information.

Note that I had some issues post-procedure as well, but not at all like most problems I have read here.  My pain was almost non-existent (well-managed perhaps?), and I did end up back in hospital 10 days after the ablation, with an elevated heart rate.  I had thought it was AF but it turned out it was not. (I had also been told that a number of folks will have some AF episodes aftewards.. it is not uncommon, as the heart has been poked and prodded, as is "unhappy" as a result.)  An adjustment of my meds helped.

I also took a while to heal. My incision seeped a bit longer than usual, but I had a hard time lying still with my legs straight out for all those hours, and I think my movement irritated the incision. But once I made myself lie still and keep my legs straight, it closed up -- and I did go home the day after the procedure.  I was also told I would have to lie flat for a lot of hours, so that was no surpise to me.

All in all, would I do it again if need be? You bet I would!  I wouldn't hesitate for a moment!  Do I want to go through it again? Of course not, who would? I pray my new-found sinus rhythm stays with me for years to come.

Feel free to contact me directly if you choose. And if you would like, I will even call you on the phone if that would be better or more helpful in any way.  (I have a special phone plan where I can call internationally for free, or nearly free.)

Wishing you all peace, health, and no stress,
Debb XOX

[shhsasha]

I am a 17 year old female who recently had ablation for WPW.
My operation was in june, so two months ago now, and was performed in Melbourne, Australia. The cardiologist seemed to think that it was a success, yet since then I have been experiencing pain that last just over a minute basically every day, which changes from a sharp stabbing to a strange feeling of being pushed? It sounds a bit similar to some of the others on this forum, so now I am a little worried for the results I get from my 'final' check up and ECG in two days, because now i get the feeling another ablation may be required! wish me luck!

[georgi212]

I had ablation on thursday this week.I found it to be an ok exp. I am so happy to be free of the fear of another episode. I hope I don't need to go again in the future but if I had to I know what to expect now and it isnt sobad....wellworthit.
Good luck

[YamaBlonde]

Wishing you all the best!  Please keep us updated.

Over here in the UK (and in the US too, I hear), it seems most, if not all, EP's (the specialists who do ablations) say it can up to 3 months for the proper scar tissue to form -- the scar tissue that eventually "blocks" the electrical pathways that are responsible for the arrythmia.

I had my ablation on the 5th of June this year, and had a few blips (the first was really  scarey, believe me!).  However now, nearly 3 months on, I am AF-free, and no elevated heart rate.  Of course I pray that I am fine now, and it all stays smooth, but I have had  5 or 6 consecutive weeks now of A-ok sinus rhythm.  

Funny that I cannot remember if it is 5 or 6 weeks, as I feel that great now!  (Let me go check the calendar... be right back.  Okay, my last tachycardia episode, which lasted only a few hours, was early morning on Monday the 12th of July, so that makes SIX WEEKS!)

My prayers are with you; please come back and let us know!

Hugs and peace,
Debb

[YamaBlonde]

Oops. I see that, for some odd reason. I put my ablation date as 5 June, but it was the 5th of MAY!  So, I am past that 3-month point to which the EPs refer.

Apologies for that error -- lots going on in my life at this time, so I guess such a blip (error) is bound to happen.

Nonetheless, I am AF free!  HOORAY!

Debb

[matnels]

I am a 22 year old Male who was diagnosed with SVT. My first major episode landed me in the hospital with a heart rate of over 200 bpm. I had problems such as heart palpitations, chest pain (which would radiate down my left arm), and the sweats. The only thing that ever seemed to break my attacks was dipping my head into ICE COLD water. Even then it would only bring it down temporarily. If an attack occurred it usually meant I would be going to the hospital soon after.

I made an appointment with a cardiologist and after looking at my EKG's from past occurrences he recommended me to a electrophysiology specialist. The specialist suggest I do the EP study and ablation if necessary. So we set a date to do this procedure.

Today (Aug 24th, 2010), I had my EP study and ablation done. I am actually sitting in the hospital as I write this. At first I was really nervous and about the entire procedure, especially the complications that could potentially arise, however, once I was in the OR the staff was very nice and gave me fentynol and versed to take the anxiety and pain away. After receiving both doses of that I really do not remember a whole heck of a lot. My procedure lasted roughly two hours and I spent an hour in recovery. Technically, most doctors at this hospital let their patients go after they are able to eat a small meal. But, my doctor is one of those ones that like to monitor their patients over night so here I am.

As for whether the ablation worked or not as of right now I would have to say it did. I feel wonderful other than my leg being super sore from where they put the catheters in at. My chest feels a little weird but they say that is from the surgery. I have yet to experience any fluttering or irregular heart rhythm since I have been out. It has nearly been 8 hours.

As of right now I would definitely recommend this procedure for anyone suffering from SVT. If you have the right doctor and staff performing the procedure it goes very smooth. I will continue to post on here to update you all of my experiences from here on out.

If anyone has any questions feel free to contact me!

[Peace1974]

I am pleased that I have found this thread to share my experiences.  I am 35 and I have SVT and AVNRT from the age of 17. I had a EPS procedure in 2004 in which the doc successfully ablated one pathway (left lateral accessory). They applied four times radio frequency energy in that area. However, there was temporary loss of conduction during the procedure.

They also identified another region (parahassian accessory pathway) and attempted and applied cryoablation four times. However, temporary complete AV block occurred during the procedure and the procedure was terminated. After one month of ablation, I had a recurrence of first episode and ended up in A& E. There was burning sensation and missing heart beats for the first 3-4 months. After four months missing heart beats persisted and permanent discomfort of chest tightness have developed. I was reviewed by different cardiologists for the last 6 years and no one could give concrete medical explanations. In 2009 the ECG test showed nothing abnormal, and my cardiologist said it is due to my stress of life events.

For last few months, I had several episodes and I will be going for echocardiogram and ECG (24 hours) tests tomorrow. I am getting anxious because I have more severe symptoms now after experiencing increased frequency. The symptoms include chest pains, short of breath and tiredness in addition to chest tightness. I am scared to go for another ablation because the doc said there is a high risk of complete AV block. I was on flecainide (pill on the pocket approach) until last week and now advised by GP to take them regularly.

[xlaser]

I had my first ablation on 9th Aug. 2010 at Papworth in UK. 3 Hours on the operating table and was released the next day. I felt rather exhausted first day back home, but had next to no discomfort at all. One week later I was cycling and swimming with no problem. However on day 18 AF returned, starting when I lay on the bed at night to attempt to sleep. It felt worse when trying to sleep on my right side. Best position was on my back with hands over my head. For the next 2 days the heart rate was pounding at 90 to 130 depending on my activity. Heavy breathing and feeling hot at times accompanied the palpitations. This will be night #3 bordering Tachycardia. I'm keeping an open mind about what the future will bring as I was pleased with progress for the first 2 weeks but now I feel more apprehensive. Stay tuned ......

[BigB42]

Hi all, i am looking for some information. I am 7 days post cardiac ablation which was performed at the Heath Hospital Cardiff UK. I have suffered from, initially- acute coronary syndrome nine months ago. following this i have experienced AF and the accompanying symptoms which have led me to be admitted to a and e on what seems like a monthly basis. My ablation took 6 hours and i was sent home to rest 48hrs later. 5 days post procedure i was admitted to hospital following collapsing which left me with impaired vision, sweating, numbness to both hands and my teeth and jaw. I also experienced short term memory loss and confusion. However after several hours i started to regain my lucidity.  My heart rate remained in sinus rhythem throughout this episode. The drs were baffled by this episode and attributed the symptoms with fainting, i am not convinced. any ideas? B

[me_how]

Hey everyone! I had my second ablation about 3 weeks ago. Doctors said it was successful. I no longer have WPW. I used to stress a lot because i've read on the internet that some people felt fine after a week or two after the ablation. Now I know those people are a very very small percentage. Most people have pains, tingling, increased HR, pounding, palpatations... etc months after the procedure. One of my classmates had this surgery 2 years ago and it took him 6 months to finally feel ok. So to anyone who is reading this is hang on, give it time and don't worry :)
p.s. message me if you're going through this too, let's talk

[southerngirly]

I had the ablation done for SVT 4 days ago, 09/08/10 so far i am feeling ok, I have had some mild chest pain and very tired but all and all not to bad. Everyone has all this info about their procedures, how many burns etc. I have no idea what mine was, I wonder if I can get a report from my doctor and read it.

Thanks
Kelly

[gksmuth]

I am 43 I had my ablation done four years ago. I had severe  art fibrillation. They cauterized sixteen different alternate paths. I have been in normal sinus rhythm since. Yes the heart always hurts after these procedures. Ablation, Cauterizing, Burning. They all mean one thing destruction so yes in a sense it does hurt and it might hurt for years. It is now scarred. And scarring does hurt. But it beats the heck out of living on plavix & coumadin. I guess if I pay attention I can sense little pains here and there. Thank you technology & the Doctors able to preform these miracles.

[daughter67]

Well, did you have the ablation procedure?  Your case reminded me of my father's.   He got an ablation done at age 71, and it was not successful, created more problems (continual CHF).  I wanted to see what you chose to do and the results.

Hope you're well!

[Ashtonbiker]

Hi there, I had a PVI ablation to cure my paroxsmal atrial fibrillation on 29/9/10 at a specialist heart unit in Manchester NW of UK. I am told that the tacycardia was induced when they got into the left atrium and that the first ablation on one of the PVs cured it. They repeated the ablation on the other 3 PVs and completed a full mapping. I have had some discomfort but nothing serious and so far only one feeling like a rush of adrenaline, pulse rate steady in the low 50's BPM.
I have a follow up appointment on 13/12/10 and will take the same medications post op until then (Bisoprolol, Flecainide and Warfarin). Does anyone want to comment on their experiences with regard to coming off the meds.

[Delis1953]

My Husband had a heart ablation they said  the risk were small .oo1 % they could puncture the heart, but htey did it happens more then you would think I have been reading a lot of cases, there are so manny side effects and problems  with an ablation they don't tell you about. My husband died they never said anything about that the liver could be punctured,  they worked on the heart and repaired it but for 4 hours he was bleeding inside form the  I will finish all this statement later Adele5705

[renae76]

I had my secont ablation 16 Nov 2010.  It was successful, however since then, I've been having chest pain daily.  I went to the emergency room for chest pain, was admitted, but all the tests were good.  I thought I was going to feel better after the ablation, but I don't.  I am 34, very active and I just feel tired all the time now.  At night, I feel tightness in the chest, like someone is punching me in the heart.  I just want to know if anyone felt the same thing or smililar, and what did you do?  Please Help!

Lisa

[lelaine]

Hi, I had the same thing happen after my 2nd ablation, which was still NOT successful. I had pain, a heaviness in my chest, tightness, etc., and at times it felt like I couldn't breathe, like I had forgotten how or something, and I was exhausted all the time (not part of my former heart condition). My doctor checked and said all was normal, seemed puzzled by it. When he referred me to a different specialist who had the equipment to get to a difficult to reach spot in an artery in the middle of my heart, I was conflicted about what to do, since after the 2nd ablation I felt like I had a huge weight inside my chest & abdomen, I was out of breath just sitting, and I was worried that the symptoms would not go away. It took until  roughly mid-March for the symptoms to go away (February 4 was the date of my 2nd ablation). After I spoke with the new specialist, I felt assured that my 3rd procedure would be sucessful. Not only was the 3rd time the charm and my WPW cured, but I didn't have the pain, etc., after that 3rd ablation. I think it's because it didn't take as long, as the specialist was able to complete the entire procedure in a very short time compared to the 1st two procedures. So less "abuse" to the heart, less trauma. Maybe you had a lot of burns done to your heart for your procedure (sometimes it takes more), but my point is that it took me about 1 1/2 months to recover from that, and then it was gone. Since my 3rd procedure, I have been completely normal with a normal EKG for the 1st time in my life, and it has been wonderful! So hang in there, because at least your procedure was sucessful, so now all you have to get through is the recovery from the zapping they did to your heart. It may not take you as long to recover as it did me, or it might take a bit longer, everyone is different; but since your doctors told you your heart is normal, you will hopefully have the same end result as I did.

[Just_Fibbing]

Hey everybody, I'm trying to decide if I want to get an ablation, as my doctor has recommended.  I'm a 26 y/o male and recently had an episode of A-flutter which then turned into A-fib.  The episode lasted about 8 hours total, after which I converted.  My father has A-fib/flutter and is on medication.

As I said, the cardiologist I saw has recommended that I get an ablation.  However, I'm somewhat reluctant to have someone go in and burn my heart considering I've only had one A-fib episode (about a month ago) and don't know how long, if ever, it will be until my next one.  Essentially, the way I see it, my situation does not seem to be dire and I don't know if it's worth the risks of having the procedure done.  I should note that I do not want to take long-term medications, and if I didn't get the ablation, I would essentially be taking a wait-and-see position (though I would probably get on blood thinners).

The doctor basically told me that even if it doesn't happen for a while, it's likely that I'll have another episode at some point, and that the risks of the procedure were smaller than the risk of possible complications (stroke, etc.) if I don't do anything.  He seemed very confident that nothing would happen during the procedure and that the risks were miniscule.  Having looked at this message board, I am starting to have doubts about that - though I recognize that people generally don't get onto message boards to talk about what a success their procedure was.

Anyway, if any of you, after having gone through the procedure or having done research on it, could offer your opinion as to whether or not you think the risks of ablation are worth taking for someone in my situation, I would very much appreciate it.

Sorry for the long post, and thanks for the help.

[Just_Fibbing]

Oh, I should also mention, I think my doctor was mostly concerned because my heart rate during my episode broke 300 bpm.  This could be one reason why he doesn't want to take a wait-and-see approach.

I should also note that the episode started immediately after I got up from a handstand, so it wasn't during normal activities, which leads me to believe that I could probably avoid having another episode for a while so long as I refrain from doing tumble sets.

No need to ask why I was doing a handstand.

[spazattack]

I had my ablation for wpw on December 9th 2010 @ cooper in NJ
my bp came close to bottom when i woke up 36/24, i advised everyone that my bp drops and always has. felt sore after but i was ok. 2 days later the skips in the beat kept waking me, and then i started to have pain. i went the the er and was told by the dr that i had a big surgery it would take a few days to call the cardiovascular dr.
that the pericardium is swollen. go to cardiovascular dr and he read my labs from the er and i tested positive heart enzymes that i should not have been discharged, but its probably from the ablation. and i have pericarditis.
i have been short of breath and feel like my heart is pushing into my breast plate. still a little dizzy and pains in the shoulder and neck on and off - the left side feels strange- and my diaphram hurts.
my echo was ok, the ekg is ok, the nucelar stress test was ok.
no meds other than mortin oh and xanex because i am completly freaked out. this was suppossed to be easy. I am a 43 year old female.

[4SRANCH]

My husband had catheter ablation Aug. 31, 2010.  He was put on Warfarin (rat poison) & went in for the INF checks.  His ablation has not worked yet--Dr. said 3 months, then said come back to see him in 2 months.  Then Dec 6, we went to the ER because he had had a headache almost constantly for 2  weeks.   Hemorraging  from the Warfarin.  2 subdural hematomas.  Thank God & a skillful neurosurgeon surgery was a success.  Now he is a Catch 22 because he can never take a blood thinner again and we have been told he can't have another ablation if this one does not work.You hear a different story from the neurosurgeons--they told us point blank that they would never take Warfarin.  The ICU nurses said they see a lot of hematomas from blood thinner--it is a delicate balance.
He had been taking a 325 mg aspirin for several years & this was not stopped when he was put on the Warfarin.  I think the Dr. did not ask us enough questions either--he had had a bleeding ulcer years ago and cluster headaches.  Perhaps his vascular system was different from the ordinary.    Also all of the anti AF drugs, fleccanide, Multaq , & Amiadrone seem to have made his A Fibs worse.  Early on he was on Digoxin to slow the heart rate and now he back on that.  A week ago an AFib that lasted 20 hrs.  Today an AFib that lasted 12 hrs.   Just hope things get better-he has lost trust in his Drs.

[lump61]

I am a 61 year old man and have had two ablations. I have had a tremendous amout of chest pain and preasure after each one. Right now I am having the same sytoms. The only thing that works to stop the pain in my chest is one half of a lortab. I also have had a stroke 10 years ago and several TIA's . Has anyone ever experienced anything like this.

[lioness23]

I had my first catheter ablation a week ago for Atrial Flutter.  I was told I would feel well within 48 hours but have been having chest pain and heart beat of 100+  since the procedure - particularly when I'm up and about.  I called my doc who said this was not normal and to go to my hospital.  I was given all the usual tests - ecg, bp and all was well.  I was fitted with a holter monitor for 24hours which I've just returned.  During this 24 hour period I decided to to do everything I would normally do so that if there was anything wrong it would be recorded.  As expected - my chest became very sore radiating up to my neck, I felt very weak and my heart rate went up to 110.  Pain tends to settle when I rest.  I'm a bit confused as to what is happening to me - is this normal - could it be anxiety?  

[Taniababy3]

I have had atrial fibrillation for a year now and have tried 3 antiarrhythmic drugs but none of them have worked.  My doctor mentioned getting an ablation but after reading all your comments, I am very hesitant to go that route.  I take cardizem and that keeps my heart from racing above 125 during an attack which happens about once a month and lasts from 4-10 hrs.  I also take COQ10 and taurine, magnesium, fish oils and vitamin e.  I don't know if the ablation is worth the risk of damaging my heart.  I feel for all of you and what you are going through.  I sometimes think we need to question our doctors and not just let them do what they think is best for us.  They are only human.  Plus, burning the heart and damaging it with an ablation sounds unwise to me.  I think I am going to consult a naturopath before I decide what is best for me.

God bless you all on your journey to finding good health.

[Mom2four85]

To anyone who is dealing with arrhythmia's or related issues, please join us also in the heart rhythm forum http://www.medhelp.org/forums/Heart-Rhythm/show/92  you will find most of us there like myself are dealing with heart rhythm issues =)

[YamaBlonde]

I had increasingly frequent and severe AF over several years (about 6 yrs actually, with some periods of nothing at all, which led me to believe I would not have any more; boy, was I wrong!).  I ended up with episodes that would last days, tho more often less than a 24 hr stretch, but more and more frequently till I was having them several time a week, and ultimately, daily.

I had my ablation (PVI - Pulmonary Vein Isolation) in May of 2010.  Four days of great heart rhythm followed, then elevated heart rate that had me back in hospital.  It was not AF, and I was given a few tests.  I was told elevated HR is not at all uncommon, by the way.  I was put on some anti-arrhythmia meds (fleconaide) and something to keep my heart rate lower. (The meds were dropped a few months later.)

I had occasional "blips" that scared me at first (at least I knew they were not AF!), but I think my anxiety exacerbated it.  Once I learned to calm down and let it run its course (usually from just a few minutes to about an hour), it seemed to calm down faster.  No other symptoms -- no lightheadedness, nothing.

Although I was told it takes about 3 months for the scar tissue to form and do their job (block the extra electrical pathways causing the AF), I began to read even more and listen to others who'd had an ablation.  I spoke to a few on this forum -- and still am in touch, by the way!  And did more reading.  What I found is this:  While 3 months is the ideal time period, it seems most are taking over 6 months and some up to a year, for things to settle. (Symptoms lessen quickly, so it isn't like you have pain or shortness of breath for very long at all. It's the heart rhythm that takes a while to calm down, presuming the procedure was successful.)

Me? I am at the 9 month mark now... no blips since just after Xmas. No skips that I am aware of, no weird episodes, no too-high heart rate.

By the way, I also was told that one's heart rate often ends up higher than before the procedure (My resting rate was 55-60, and is now closer to 80; but that is still acceptable.)

I was fortunate -- no major chest pain, super tightness, short breath, etc, that some have mentioned here.  But I also did not expect to be totally free of any after-effects from the procedure. After all, they are "messing" with the heart, so the organ can naturally respond with swelling, heart rhythm blips, etc. till it heals.

I think that, often, people come to forums because things have not gone smoothly, there is fear, anxiety, and so on.  I was certainly scared and all that connotes, believe me!  But I also feel that, as a rule, most "success stories" do not end up on forums, and that most come here with unhappy news, much as we see with the TV and newspapers broadcasting bad news, not nearly as much as the good and uplifting stuff that is still existent in high numbers out there.

Please know that I am not at all making light of those who've had bad (or even awful) experiences.  But please realise that there are many, many, many of us who've had successful procedures as well.

Once I started looking into ablations, and talking about it with folks I know, I found so many who had a relative or friend who'd had it. So I began talking with them, and learning that -- without exeception -- every one was glad they had had the procedure.

Yes, some need an additional procedure -- especially if their case is more involved, and some times every spot is not found in the first mapping.  And I am sure there are those around who wish they hadn't done it all.  Even reading here, you see that there are those that did not know to seek the best electrocardiologist they could find (and afford) -- regardless of where.

In my research, I learned to look for a specialist who does hundreds of these a year, not a doctor that does them now and then.  Like any field, "practice makes perfect" so I was happy to learn that the team (3 specialists) where I went did over 300 per year.

For me, my quality of life suffered so greatly -- and I could no longer even ride my motorcycle, let alone go visit friends or much of anything normal for me! -- that this made sense for me. So I did it, and I am so grateful I did! And I am glad I did the intense research I did as well.  That made me feel more in control. and considerably less helpless.

Rather than go on and on here, and make this mini-novel even longer (smile), know that you can contact me and I will gladly share more of my experience, as well as information, and give support as I can.  I will even gladly give you a call, if that would help you.  (Although I live in England, I can call the US and all of Europe for free, as well as Australia and New Zealand.)

Wishing you all success and wonderful health,
Debb

[SteveHepC]

To do Ablation or not
by SteveHepC, less than a minute ago
Ablation when in Sinus Rhythm
by SteveHepC, Mar 17, 2011 8:38AM
Tags: Ablation
I had Cardioversion in October. It worked and my A-fib changed to Sinus rhythm until February.
One night I had too much to drink, and the next morning I was back in A-fib. My Cardio wants to do Ablation, but I converted back to Sinus 12 days ago and haven't been in A-fib since. Should I have Ablation while I'm in Sinus? I feel great.....low blood pressure and consistent pulse rate of 68. I stopped almost all drinking and feel great. I am already on Warfarin due to valve replacement in 1993, and take 50 mg Toprol.

[YamaBlonde]

Good for you to stop the drinking! ( I was told early on that alcohol, especially over-imbibing) could aggravate AF and bring on an episode, but as I rarely drink, I didn't think much about the "warning.")

I, for some odd reason, always thought that most who went in for their ablation would likely be in sinus rhythm at the time, even though I wasn't.  No idea why I thought that, but there ya go.

Like you, I had a valve (aortic) replaced earlier -- 4 yrs ago for me, as mentioned in earlier posts.  I had hoped it would relieve the AF, though all my doctors said it was unrelated. Oh, well.

Anyway... I don't think anyone can really "suggest/recommend" having the ablation or not, just share their personal experiences.  Me? I am really glad I had mine done -- my AF got worse and worse till my quality of life was so far down, I felt there was no where to go. Sometimes I think I should have done it sooner, but I had to follow the path I did, I suppose.

I had a terrific and VERY experienced team of doctors, and THAT is what I would definitely recommend -- don't go to a local doc unless he/she does this procedure at least a couple hundred times a year.  As the old saying goes:  Practice makes perfect.

If you're asking me if I would do it again? You bet! And I'd give my full support to anyone choosing to have it done, with the same caveat of get a VERY experienced electrocardiologist. Obviously, there are no guarantees, Steve -- but again, with all I know now, I'd do it in a heartbeat (pun intended).

Wishing you all the best and wonderful health,
Debb, in England

[renae76]

Ok - I was just released from the hospital due to chest pain.  I had my 2nd ablation November 2010.  It was successful, but since then I have daily chest pain.  I've been hospitalized twice since, but nothing is showing up.  I am tired all the time, out of breath all the time, from just simple tasks, like walking.  I am 35 - very active and I just want to feel normal again!  

[SteveHepC]

Since I've been in Sinus since I stopped drinking, my Doctor decided to not do the Ablation at this time. Wait three months then a Holter. YEH!!!!!!!!!!!!

Steve

[YamaBlonde]

WOO HOO great to "hear" the fantastic news, Steve!  Keep me/us updated please!

Hugggs from actoss the pond,
Debb

[keithq]

im 21 i just had a ablation, im still in the hospital as we speak on a lab top, i had it  march 24th at 8 am and lasted 8 hours, its now 1:50 am the following morning 25th and i have a lot of chest pain, hurts when i breath in and my heart beats :-( so im on here looking as to why, im hopping its just becuase my heart was burned and is a little sore, but on a scale from one to ten  when i breath in its in the 8 9 area. Someone please tell me if they went threw this also   email me and let me know   ***@****  thanks and god bless.  

[twitterboo]

My 15 yr old daughter just had a catheter ablation of left sided pathway on Monday the 21st of March.
Since two days after surgery she has had a terrible migrane (migraine) headache.  She is extremely fatigued and just not herself at all.  I read through most of the posts and seen very few that had migrane (migraine) headaches.
We had her into ER on thursday for right side numbness in her hand and face.  The catscan came back normal.
The docs put her on one baby asprin a day for 6 weeks.  Can anyone tell me how long before her headache will subside????  Is it maybe the asprin?  
I just have this terrible feeling, I made the wrong choice getting this done......I just dont understand what could be causing her such headache pain, when the proceedure was done with the heart.  They went in through both legs.  Can anyone give me any insight, please!

[elwood11]

I also had an ablation for VT and PVCs on Feb 24th-Done at Mayo clinic.
i am a 44yr old female, very active  backpacker, canoe, skier, hiker, snowshoer, ---you name it.
Dramatic reduction in PVCs, however, 3 weeks after, chest pain started.
Sort of pangs in various different places that are like getting jabbed
with a dull knife. sometimes it feels like a muscle spasm.

I don't understand whats going on!
Am on 1 aspirin a day til May when i have a followup apptment

[Moochthegooch]

Hello, I am a 30 year old female.  I just recently had my third ablation done at Cleveland Clinic.  My experience was not the greatest by i am very thankful I did it.  I needed an epicardial ablation due to the location of my pvc's.  They made an incision near my sternum and also in both my left and right groin.  The procedure took about 9 hours.  I cried and moaned for a good portion of it.  I would explain it as very uncomfortable and kind of surreal.  I woke up in recovery unable to take a deep breath and felt as if something very heavy was on my chest.  After a day or so, some of the discomfort subsided and I was very happy to look up at the monitor and see Normal sinus rhythm when i was previously experiencing bigemmeny.  It has been three days since my ablation, i am taking it easy.  I am very hopeful that this ablation was a success.  I highly recommend the Doctors at Cleveland Clinic.  Dr.Martin and his fellow Dr.Kahn were my physicians......Excellent, Excellent, Excellent!!!1

[Vickiesipes]

Hi I had ablation for wpw on 4/5/2011.
Now y'all I will say I have an amazing team providing me care. The procedure was long due to having 2 areas causing symptoms. I am just going to let them guide me thru all this. I have had several Palpations ( normal and expected), burning and the dreaded arrhythmia. The cardiologist went to great details to prepare me for what to do and what to expect as I go. I did relies that it may take some time to see fulfilled results. I won't say I look forward to it if I have to have it again, but we know where the problem most likely is. With Wpw you have hade it your whole life and it has developed "a memory ". Mine was fixed before leaving surgery, but before I left the next day the memory had started to kick in. Il   Just a few days out and I'm just goin to
Wait and see what approach we take to finish this up. As I said I do have an awesome team in place and they are working closely together to get me better. So I'm goin ta ride the symptoms out, because I had most of them and some extras before the procedure.  So far I don't believe in as SOB as I was and I'm finding that a good thing. :) hang in there and let's see how good I get. I'm lookin for a complete fix!

[mira60]

My ablation ws done one day after your, April 8th,2011. So far seems to be ok.

[momuzelaya]

Our son had a catheter ablation done in January for WPW, dr stated that they could not get his heart rate up like it had been before this procedure, 220 plus, but they ended up burning 3-4 spots they thought may be causing the issue. They also stated that he had two nodes. Since this procedure he has been complaining of numbness, heaviness, tingling in his left arm, dizziness, tiredness, and weird things in his heart that he has trouble describing, one being sharp pains and he will point to top, bottom or middle of the heart. He also reports of twitches. Brought him back to the electro dr and he said his ekg didn't come out good but then stated it could be one of four things, heart, acid reflux, muscle or in his head. Our son only has a history of asthma no heart issues til diagnosed with WPW and then the SVT. We are seeking a second cardio opinion but want to know what else we should do. We know this is not in his head and resent that he is being told this making him think he is crazy. This has been going on since October of 2010. Are we crazy? IS there some side effects from this procedure? Should they have taken care of the node? What else should we be looking for?
Also note, that at one episode we brought him to the er and he was treated for a mild heart attack but when we brought him back to a cardio dr who had never seen him he just stated that the er people are keeping him in business. Please help us. Thank you.

[kikina400]

Hi, I had ablation done for SVT on Tuesday 5/24 in Kaiser Hospital in LA. I had SVT episodes since I was about 18 and I usualy ended up in ER with 250-285 bpm. I was not taking any medications for it(only while I was pregnant) They tought me how to slow it down myself, so I was never considering an Ablation, until now. Since I am traveling to Europe, I was crazy scared what if it hapens on the plane and I would not be able to slow it down. So I made my decision. After the Ablation, I felt great, a bit sore on my leg, but great. Well now,4 days later I am having a pain in my chest, when I take a deep breath it feels like it hurts more. I also feel like the heart is missing a beats more often, than before ablation.I went shopping today and felt slugish. It is the Memorial Day weekend so I can't realy call anybody, it is not that bad that I have to go to ER, but wandering if I should take an Aspirin or Tylenol. I have not excersised yet, but I hope and pray that I will be able to, because the gym is my second home. BTW, I am 40 years old female, athletic.

[unsurestill]

Hi, I'm not sure if I want to go through with it. When I exercise a lot (45 minutes a day at least) at the high heart rate (~160's) I usually feel fine. Recently I had pneumonia and had to stop exercising. Well, my arrhythmia is coming back, or at the very least becoming noticeable. In general, the exercise really seems to 'open up' my breathing and I feel normal and able to take full breathes.

My question is that the worst part of what I'm experiencing is difficulty breathing, and it feels like it's more on the left side.
I also have weird jumps, skips, and extra beats throughout the day. Besides that, my bpm jumps up to maybe 180 or so on occasion, but it is much less than 5 years ago when it skyrocketed to above 220 bpm out of sleep.

Anyway, I've made a bit of a jumbled mess out of this thing, but what about the breathing thing? Do a lot of people have this? What about the other stuff? Is it consistent with some of you?

[merileegal]

I'm scheduled to have an ablation next Tuesday. I've also gone been very unsure if I should do it. Exercise seems to help me out a lot  along with avoiding too much caffeine, msg, etc: My concern is stress. That is something that is a little harder to control even when I'm exercising and eating right, stress gets to me and I can have a SVT attack. I've lived with it for over 20 years adn like you have learned to deal with it without meds, for most of the time, and learned to use vagal manuevers to convert the heart to normal.

I finally decided to go ahead with it. The last time I saw the ep I talked to him about continuing on the way I have because I only get 3 or 4 attacks a year and I didn't know if that was worth the risk of this invasive procedure. He agreed until he looked at my monitor results which showed 250 bpm. He just said that was too fast and I really needed to have this done.

After a couple of serious attacks this year, my heart did funny thing like you describe for weeks afterward. Even though all the doctors say SVT can't hurt the heart, I can't help think that it does something to it. So even though I don't have them a lot, I've decided to go ahead to avoid these once and for all and not have to worry when my heart does the flip floppy thing that I'm going to have an episode. I live with that almost daily and that is stressful in itsself.

[jfconsingCST]

My name  is Joel, i work in the best Hospital here in New York.. New York Presbyterian Hospita/ Cornell..,  I have the utmost faith with these Doctors here., as i also work in the Operating room..,
I was told i need a CVT Ablasion procedure to stop my CVT, and to stop my dizzienss and light headedness, and posible fainting.
After reading all this.., it seems 85%  of you who had this done, all experienced the same sharp/.burning pain., due to this procedure.
also some have had it done more than once..?  why is this..as i would like to know.  Did it help you guys in the long run.., and those who still experienced increased  Tachycardia..., was it worse than before and did it subside.    How long before you were able to return to work..
as m y job is very important in the O.R.  so  i really can't be out too long.
ball park figure,, how long is recovery time for this procedure.
from all of you who had this done.
I appreciate your feed back on this.., and   was it worth having this procedure done?
regards
Joel.., CST/  ORT

[lelaine]

It's a difficult decision, I know. I had the procedure done 3 times, with the final ablation being in March 2010. That was the successful procedure, and I have been completely symptom free for nearly 15 months now. I had WPW, and for years controlled the episodes with medication. Not only did the medication finally stop working (in my late 50's), but the medication caused me problems as well. Looking back, I would say that my mistake was in not going to a top specialist to begin with. It's not that the local doctor did not have any experience in performing ablations, but he knew that the "extra" pathway in my heart was hidden away inside a blood vessel in the center of my heart, and he didn't have small enough equipment to go in there. So instead he chose to use very high heat to try to obliterate the pathway from outside the blood vessel; first from one side of the heart, and the 2nd time from the other. I had many issues after the 2nd ablation, felt pressure and tightness in my chest, and like I almost couldn't breathe. I was fatigued, my condition was worse afterward, and I was very frightened. My doctor finally referred me to a top specialist in Phoenix who had ALL of the equipment needed for these type of difficult procedures. When I talked to the new physician, I knew he was in a different league, and that my difficult procedure was something that he did all of the time. What took other doctors hours to perform, he did in an hour and a half or two (can't remember exactly any more), it was a walk in the park for him! He was able to go INTO the blood vessel and zap the offending pathway very quickly. when I woke up (they always had to put me completely under because of back problems and my inability to hold still in twilight sleep); anyway, when I woke up, I felt normal for the first time I could remember in many, many years! AND I did not have the problems breathing or tightness in my chest or pain afterward. I DO NOT HAVE WPW, and this has been worth it to me. I no longer take ANY MEDICATIONS. I don't even have to see a cardiologist any more. My problem before was life threatening, and a constant issue, so to me this is like a miracle. My recommendation to you is to see a top specialist who performs these as a matter of routine, not just someone who does them some of the time. And someone who has all of the equipment, because I found out that is actually a big problem. I wish you the very best in your search for help. Keep us all posted.

[partlysunny777]

Just wondering how you are doing now????  I am supposed to set a date for ablation for my svt but am totally scared that I'm gonna end up worse off!!!  I am a 41 yr. old, health conscious sports person who plays competitive tennis.  I'm just not sure it is worthwhile to choose something with risks when the doctors have assured me that what I have is not dangerous.  I do have events approx. 1x/month and have been to the er a couple of times.  I am also on toprol so it would be nice to be done with all of that!!!!!  Thanks so much and I hope all is well with you!

[marid]

hi i just had my heart ablation every thing went well thank god my only question is why did they go trow my neck and my growing?

[subliminal_qwe3n]

I am 22 and I had an ablation last year and I am going for another one next month. My heart rate went up to 252 bpm and it was scary as hell. The first experience was that it felt like an anxiety attack but worse. my vision was going, tightening in the chest, and my hearing in my left ear was gone. Now a year and a month later the cardiologist says I have to decide to go for another ablation because I had 15 more episodes in 3 months. So my next ablation is next month finally. I never had any medications for it because my doctor said that I dont need the medication. And now I have pain in my chest and I dont know what to do. should I just wait until my ablation?

[nomoresvtgirl]

6-27-11
I am a 38 yo female.  I had SVT ablation surgery on 6/16/11.  I was totally awake during the procedure.  I did not feel the catheters going into my heart, I did however feel the ablation which did hurt but gave me pain med during the procedure.  They in fact did a total of 5 ablations to my heart.  I was in surgery for 4 hours.  I spent the night on a cardiac telemetry floor for observation and did fine.  So far, I'm doing o.k.  I will have an occasional pain or my heart feels a little bruised but I'll take that over "never knowing" when I'm going to have an SVT episode.  During my last episdode prior to having SVT surgery My heart went from 68 beat per minute to 259 bpm in less than 15 minutes.  Before my SVT surgery, I could not bend over and pick something up real fast or it could throw my heart into an SVT episode.  Now I can bend over and pick anything up.  My heart feels more "quiet" now.  The only way to explain it is like My heart was a used,bumpy car that needed a new muffler and now my heart feels like quiet,soft, luxury car that you can't even feel/hear running at a stoplight....it's more peaceful.  Hope this makes sense.  I find myself breathing normally after the procedure.  Beforehand, I never realized how much I held my breath because of my heart flip-flopping and skipping beats, etc.  Thanks.  I'm glad I did it.  But we'll see how the future goes.  I'll keep everyone updated.

[lizz515]

hi, im lizz im 15 and ive had wpw all of my life, could never play sports or run or anything because if so i would have an episode where my heart rate would get so crazy fast that i couldn't talk, and you could see my heart beating threw my shirt it would go so fast, it made me limit a lot of my lifestyle and affecting me to not do anything normal, i just had the ablation 5 days ago, they said it went successful and when i came out of it my chest did feel lighter. i decided to finally go for a long walk to try it out because my doctor said the recorvery time was only 2-3 days. i had shortness of breath, and i had a very heavy chest and it felt as if i was going to go into an episode but i did not but i was walking as if i still had a heart problem (very very slow) and i was having a lot of issues as if it was about to "go out" i call it. did this happen to anyone after there ablation and if anyone has advice it would be greatly apperiatced i am in dyer need of help this is running my life and making me very depressed. thank you so much to anyone who replys to this.

[merileegal]

I had my ablation for avnrt which is another type  of SVT. I went to Yellowstone about 11 days post ablation and decided to go on a 1/3 mile hike to see some hot pools. My heart had been feeling okay, just tired so I didn't think I'd have a problem. We were almost there and I felt the tightness in the chest, it was getting hard to breath, and some arrythmias going on. It scared my and I was a little shocked by it. So I just slowed way down and stopped to rest many times before finally making it back to the car.

I'm now 3 weeks post today and feeling so much better. I started noticing a remarkable difference last Friday in my energy level and my ability to do more. Yesterday I walked almost a mile on the treatmill at 2.5 mph. Today I'm going to try for a little more and gradually build up. Each day I can do more and more. I still have some flip flops in my chest, but those are harmless PACs, the ones I would feel before I'd go into an attack of SVT.

You were pretty brave to go on a walk so soon after your ablation. Your heart is still very tender after being poked and prodded and burned. It takes awhile to heal. Think of it as a getting a blister on your foot. It's going to take time to heal over before you'd  be able to walk on it again for any length of time. YOu might want to give it a little more time and just let your heart literally guide you. You'll find that each new day you're heart is feeling better and before you know it you'll be able to go out and do all of the things you've never been able to do before.

[lelaine]

I agree with merileegal, and think that you went on your long walk a little too soon. As I have said in previous postings, it took three ablations for them to get the right place on my heart, as the problem area was inside a blood vessel inside my heart. When I went to a specialist who could get to it, I was cured of the WPW I was born with, and they were able to tell me as soon as I woke up that they got it this time. However, a day or so afterward, I had some PACs that really scared me, but then they would stop before going into an episode. I told the doctor, and he said that when they did the ablation it gets rid of the condition that causes the episodes, but did NOT get rid of the trigger, necessarily. Also, my heart was used to doing this. Therefore, the harmless PACs might happen from time to time, but they would never go into a full blown episode. When I got back to work, a man I know told me that this was true of his wife; she had an ablation 12 years ago, but still had what he called the "Ghost" flip flops from time to time. This turned out to be true for me as well. In the year and three months since my final ablation I have never had another episode. But I did have the "ghost flip-flops" for a few months, every so often. Now I don't even have those. Also, the shortness and breath and heaviness of your heart are symptoms that can happen from the burning that they did to your heart, swelling, etc. I had that after my 2nd ablation, and it had nothing to do with the WPW, it was just a sore and irritated heart, hard to breathe sometimes, etc. That went away with time; it just took my heart time to heal after that particular episode, due to the extense of the burns, etc. I would say to you to take it easy during the early part of your recovery, and talk to you doctor. It sounds to me like you just needed to recover a little more before doing too much. Congratulations on getting this taken care of at such a young age. I didn't get mine done until I was 59; but I'm still glad that I did. Keep us posted with your progress.

[merileegal]

I joined in on the live chat yesterday and asked the ep  joining this forum what a reasonable amount of times was to start exercising again. He said he tells his patients to take it easy for a month. I didn't get that clarification from my doctor because I didn't think to ask. So let's take it easy; me another week, you another 3 weeks. :)

[tracer89016]

I am going  to have an ablation later this month.  I was wondering after reading some of the postings, is it normal to need to have this procedure done more than once?  

[newablation]

I had an ablation in Phoenix 3 weeks ago.  The chest pain is a bit weird and last night I had my first post-ablation case of tachycardia (to 140), which responded to beta blockers.  Since the heart is at T1-T2 nerve segment, you can expect pain in the chest wall near the ribs...and if you had cold balloon like I did in some areas, it seems the symptoms are less severe.  Both superior pulmonary veins were discharging electricity into my heart, causing AFlutter....my doc inserted a freezing balloon which is supposed to preserve the "stroma" or connective tissue without causing much in the way of stricture of the pulmonary veins during healing.  From what I've read, "cold" is better for the Pulmonary veins than radio frequency heat...My right auricular appendage was also electrically active and he froze that too...and that area hurts quite a bit even 3 weeks after!  Good luck to all....paroxysms of tachycardia are a terrible way to live and most wives do not understand just how much recuperation is required.  I couldn't live that way anymore and you shouldn't have to either.

[noonie7319]

I had an ablation for svt a week ago. I was scared to death, and still scared. I did not know that I could still have the flutters/racing afterwards. When will this stop??? The doctors have told me to increase my meds . . . I'm just ready to be normal . . . :(

[LindaTX]

Just know that what you are going through is absolutely normal.  It can take 3-6 months for the heart to settle down.  It's inflammed and just takes time to heal.  You are going to have to be extremely patient.  I had an ablation for a-fib last Sept.  For 3 months after I had almost constant a-fib/flutter.  Had to go back on Toprol and Flecainide for a few months....and I prayed A LOT!  Since Dec. I have not had an a-fib episode and I only have a little tachycardia about once a month, nothing bad.  Just relax and know that you will be feeling totally different in a few months,  Try not to stress yourself out...stress doesn't help. You'll be fine!

[noonie7319]

Thank you Linda!!! I was beginning to think that this ablation procedure was the wrong thing to do!!! I do pray a lot!!! and I'll try and be more patient. :)

[LindaTX]

That's the ticket!  And thanks for the friend request.  Let's keep in touch!  

[mymother68]

My mother just had several ablations for AFIB.  She is 68 years old.  I wanted to join this web site to chronical her progress throughout this healing process.  Shortly after the surgery, (8hrs) she begin to feel sharp chest pains that would wake her up while she was sleeping.  She also begin to feel a pulling and soreness in her chest when she tried to get up or move around.  

[rscano]

Thanks Linda, this discussion was getting scary. I had a heart ablation 3 weeks ago with the renowned Dr. Chun Hwang in Provo, UT. I feel fine except for a soreness during breathing followed by short coughs and some dizzyness...kind of like I have asthma or something. My doc advised that this is normal after the damage done to a heart during the ablation procedure and that it takes 3-6 months for the heart to adjust to a new rhythm and heal. My advise to everyone is to find the best surgeon, pray a lot and hang in there.

[busmans98]

I had ablation surgery on September 1st 2011.

I can tell you that my procedure was done at University Hospital in Louisville. It was an 8 hour procedure and was for A-fib. They said it was one of the worse cases they have ever seen.

The doctors are great and technology has made things much easier these days. So far my only complaint in the pain in my right groin. They actually went in with three in my right groin, two in my left, and one in my neck. The chest pain (burning sensation) was due to the heart simply being burned and lying upon the lungs when I laid on my left side.

My A-fib is gone. BP is fine but and all pain has gone with the exception of the right groin. That is killing me at the moment. So far everything has gone as expected. The pain in my groin is simply coming from the intense 20 minute pressure that they put on it when they to the caths out to prevent bleeding.

Sometimes these types of things can become mental and paranoia steps in. I am completely happy now. I was scared to death at first but the procedure was well worth it.

Yes there are risk, but it depends on how you look at things. Can you live like you are now. Can you deal with your kids saying "daddy why cant you play" etc. I feel like I have my life back.

In short, I had a good success and they did tell me that it would take up to two months for my heart to heal over. However, the A-fib is gone. Once I get to walking straight again I will be fine. The worse part of the entire thing was current groin pain. Other than that, I am completely satisfied.

I too was told of the risk, however, its a choice. Do you want to live like you are now or do you want to try to correct it? I praise God for the doctors at UofL hospital. They are the best!

[kitchensink]

I had an ablation for SVT4 days ago and am feeling fine when I am not doing much, but when I start to exercise my heart rate jumps up past normal.  I am a very healthy 51 and I exercise all the time, especially salsa dance.  I am concerned about the long term affects too.  I hope it is just healing.

[Joed131]

Did you have chronic persistent AF or Porxymal (intermittent) AF

[MBAY]

#1:  I really appreciate those who come back to these fora to report success/improvements.  Most of us have a tendency to complain and vent when in distress, but forget to praise good news. #2: I feel the EP specialists of the world are doing their catheter ablation patients a disservice in playing down the post-procedure pain and arrythmia issues.  I too had the distinct impression I'd be feeling
"normal" within a day or two.  It absolutely makes more sense we'd feel sore and tired for a good while after, and to just expect it, plan to take it easy, and be pleasantly surprised if you are fine.  #3 much appreciated are those who refrain from repeatedly retelling their stories in many long-drawn-out posts.  

I am in Houston TX and was treated at Methodist Debakey Heart Inst. It's six days since my 4+ hour procedure and I've yet to get the full report on what was done (am asking for the OR report). I'm fairly certain 4 PVIs were done and 2 av node reentry ablations. Alot of burning in all. Going in the dx was tachycardia but I think afib figured in big time. I am having unbelievable fatigue, shortness of breath and chest pain and irregular beats. I cannot return to work (teaching) until I can actually endure several hours straight on my feet. My complaint is I was led to believe "back to normal" in a few days. I'm miserable and just want to know precisely or even approximately what my recovery time and process will look like. I will see the EP in a week for my follow up, but I feel my questions now (already have) just get a placating "give it time.".  I'm 53 and in otherwise good health, had my first ever noticeable prolonged afib attacks (2 ER visits) just 3 months ago and an EP study where the Dr couldn't find the SVT he was SURE of.  I switched to another Dr in the practice after reading up on his credentials and experience (first guy does pacemakers and simple right-sided procedures but was too arrogant to tell this before first procedure). Wanted to catch this at paroxsmyl stage when higher cure rate possible.  Not used to restricting activity.  The procedure was deemed a success due to the inability to induce further tachycardia or afib. Also some mention made of unexpected congenital issues found during procedure. My concern now is When do I regain energy and normalcy??  I'm sure it differs with everyone, but I'd like a range and clearer prognosis. it would be a damn shame to feel like this 3-6 months out worse than before the procedure.  So many of these posts call into question these ablations and the EPs recommending them and doing them. Are we guinea pigs?  Done venting, thanks for any answers.

[LanciaDave]

Some excellent comments there. You should start to feel a little easing of your symptoms & side effects about now. Since you are about a week out. You should also feel significant improvement of the same symptoms over the next week as well. It should become lessened further as you get to be a month out, with some smaller gradual recovery for some months after. You should be well functional after that month, on average. The irregular beats indicate the possibility that it was not succesful, or not completely curative anyway. Or it could become more relieved shortly. You should know more by your follow up appt with your EP specialist next week. Some becoming self apparent, some answers provided by the doc. at your appt. Good luck. Hope you feel better.

[butchboy]

I just got of the hospital a day ago after having a combination of a flutter and afib procedure. As I was told this would be just a one night stay in the hospital for recovery. The procedure went well for the left side of my heart which is the side to control atrial afib however when they went to the right side for flutter they perforated my heart half way through the procedure so they had to stop at that point. The doctor said he hope he did enough to the right to complete the procedure. They had to put a drain to the heart in order to drain fluid away from it which lasted three days until they could remove it. My pressure went up and down during that time as well. They doctor who did the procedure was more upset than I was. He has done many of these over a four year period. He also instructs others on the procedure. He said total recovery from this procedure will take two weeks. At present I have short breath, a little dizzy from the meds and a drip in the back of my throat. I'll be on my regular meds I was taking before the procedure for another three months. If things go well he said he will start taking me off of meds one at a time. Please understand this is what was told to me by my doctor. I'm sixty six years old. Very active and I was working out at a near by gym. I never in my life thought I would have this happen to me. As I was told, a lot of people are walking around not knowing they have afib. I don't understand that but I'm in no way a doctor.
I hope what I have written will help you. Take care!

[MBAY]

Well, here I am a little over 5 weeks out from my procedure, checking back in (hopeful it can help someone).  Recovery has been ever so slow, and a bit frustrating.  I'm about 60% of what I consider "normal," but admit small improvements every few days.  My chest/heart pain did get better after about 2-3 weeks, and amazingly 3 Advil around the clock was most helpful in this (the nurse practitioner said I probably had carditis, inflammation of the heart sac).  Weakness and fatigue hang on, although slightly better.

Getting energy back, including my breath, was slow.  I took 10 days off, and returned to teaching.  I could barely make it through reading aloud a short book for my kids at first, and my first week back was a trial.  It ended up being nearly 3 weeks post-procedure before I could see the EP Cardiologist/Surgeon, who answered all my concerns with "be patient, give it time" but no sense of when I'd feel "normal" again, or if my procedure explains my slower recovery.  My OR report says "Highly complex procedure" taking 5 hours.  A congenital anomaly called PLSVC  was discovered (a vein that usually disappears or absorbs in utero? but in my case causes some manuvering issues with catherters apparently--not quite clear however if PLSVC causes Afib, but was "isolated").  They went into both the femoral vein and the femoral artery.  ANVRT was found on the left side and ablated in the "slow pathway."  They crossed to the left atria and performed PVA on all 4 PV using cryoballon (I believe just FDA approved early 2011?).  That seems like a lot of work and I'm hoping is the explanation for my slower recovery (yet the surgeon does not concede this).  I was instructed to wean off the beta Sotolol, stop completely 3 days ago and now feel flutters and PACs... I'm to stay on Pradaxa (blood thinner) about 6 more weeks, get an event monitor for a few weeks, then return to see the surgeon.  I'm praying things will normalize, maybe less fatigue without Sotolol.  Still very aware and worried my heart isn't beating quite right (although no tacchycardia).  

Someone else has mentioned the digestion/swallowing issue... I too feel something (which improves very slightly over time), but is still present--feels like food or pills just take a long time to go down or get stuck.  More need to burp.  I think esophegeal damage is ruled out because cryoballon (freezing) was used vs. RF (heat) ablation.  I already take nexium for a hiatal hernia and have been instructed to continue.  Could intubation for general anesthesia have anything to do with this?

Lastly, I had two episodes of "auras," that is flashing lights sensation in my peripheral vision.  It was frightening, lasted only 15 minutes or so; read somewhere else there's a connection with these "ocular migraines" (without headache) and ablation procedures. My surgeon said, "go see an opthomologist."

I seriously don't want to be a baby about this (or an "old lady" of 53 complaining about everything) but I do hope this may help someone else going through similar issues.  Or perhaps someone can help me through this by relating similar experiences.  I keep hearing the 3 month mark for knowing success.  I certainly hope it's sooner, and admit I'm impatient.  I remain cynical about the cavalier attitude these surgeons have had in my case, as if this isn't any more significant than a dental filling.  Presumably I'm with "the best" here at Methodist DeBakey.  I've heard that bedside manner is not the forte of some of these highly skilled surgeons. :-(

[MBAY]

Thanks for your encouragement!

[Helen747]

My daughter had an ablation 10/26. She too is experiencing tightness in her ches and discomfort in her heart.   Visited the ER today.  She was told she has inflamation (inflammation) in the lining of yer heart.  I believe this is what you were describing.   The cardiologis who performed the ablation  mentioned this when we took her back  two days after the procedure.   What did they do  to treat your condition?  How long did it take to subside.  Any  sugestions or information is appreciated.   Concerned Mother.

[nongshea]

Hi,
I have ablation for twice already. Once in 2010 and second in 22 Nov 2011. I have the first one because i have svt. After the first ablation i have sharp pain, pulse around 80 - 100. Feel tired and weak. After a week i feel much better and normal. But after a month i start feel the sharp pain again and getting worst if i lift up things or move a lot. I also feel my chest hardening but my ecg shows it's not MI. After 4 months my pulse increasing to 80 - 90+, then in January 2011 my svt come again. My doctor give me sotalol to take daily. It only works for 3 months. Then i start have brady so i have to stop my sotalol but after stop it for a while my vt will come out, then the doctor have to start the sotalol again. It happen that way on and on like that. A few months after this episodes my vt and svt getting worst, it come as it pleased. I spent most of my times in the hospital. then the doctor decides that i have to go for 2nd ablation with better equipments. Iam in svt during the ablation, so the doctors can see it clearly. The nurses said the doctor burns 3 times and involve a big area in my posterial septum. After this 2nd ablation i still feel tired and weak, my pulse around 80 - 100. but after a week it around 70 - 80+. But i still feel weak and have strange feeling and discomfort in the middle of my chest. My doctor found nothing in my ecg. Until now i cannot lift up things and move a lot. If not i will have sharp pain  in my chest. Iam so scared if this 2nd ablations not worked like the first time.

[srcrosby]

Im 33 just had an ablation done on the right ventricle Dec.15th so i am a little over a week out.  I have to say that wasnt the most bestest 6 hrs of my life, but after I have had some chest pain too, tightness at times, stabbing at others, pain under the arm pit and some light headedness.  My wife happens to be a nurse in the cardiac step down unit so shes been reporting all these "anomalies" to the Dr.s that did the procedure and they all seem to think that whats going on is normal.  Its scaring the bejesus outta me, however, she, nor any of the docs seem to think its anything out of the ordinary.  Just wanted to share my experience in hopes that it may help alleviate some others questions regarding this issue.  Im not 100% convinced, but this is what I got so I gotta deal.  

[srcrosby]

Symptoms from the day after, 12/16/2011 to today 12/29/2011

Day One(12/16/2011) Burning in the chest mainly from the middle of sternum radiating to left side of pectoral area.  No real problems with heart beat, breathing or any other discomfort.  Walking was a bit of a chore, but no biggie at that time.

Day Two(12/17/2011) Sharp pain in chest mainly on the left side, had bouts of dizziness, labored breath when walking very short distances, felt as if I would pass out.  Didnt feel any "blips", but very tired and weak.

Day Three(12/18/2011) Continued pain in chest (sharp and stabby) at moments, dull aches at other, 4 Aleve later and felt better. laying doen was best way to feel better.

Day Four(12/19/2011)  Pain in chest no major incidences that I can remember

Day Five(12/20/2011)  Ventured out of the house for xmas shopping, in retrospect, this was a bad idea.  The first 15 minutes went swimmingly, then it went downhill quickly.  Had shortness of breath, fatigue, nausea, and about an hour into this, a sharp pinching under my left arm.  Felt sick for the next couple of hours, took some Aleve it eventually subsided.

Day Six(12/21/2011) through day Eight(12/23/2011)  Had chest discomfort and intermittent periods of pounding heart beat, not rapid just "bam, bam bam"  which never happened pre-ablation.  Nothing significant to report that  I can recall.  

Days Nine(12/24/2011) and Ten(12/25/2011)  Felt pretty well no real chest pain no pinching thought I may be turning the corner and this thing was healing up.

Days Eleven(12/26/2011) and Twelve(12/27/2011)  Again felt pretty good, still had bouts of heart "banging", but didnt feel any "blips" not hardly any chest pain at all, things were looking up.

Day Thirteen(12/28/2011)  Backslide, had a little discomfort in t he morning, which I hadnt had for a few days.  A little discouraging but no biggie.  Around 11 am today had a "blip", which I hadnt had at all since the ablation.  Afterward felt nausea, and dizziness, took two aspirin felt slightly better.  Had minor chest discomfort the rest of the day, nausea, dizziness subsided.  Side note Ive had a cold for the last few days, wondering if the healing process is being interrupted by said cold.  Called EP doctor for appointment.

Day Fourteen(12/29/2011)  So far I am having chest things, it doesnt hurt, it doesnt ache, its just annoying.  Have slight pinching under left arm.  

[merileegal]

I'm 6 months out and doing great. While reading your post ablation experience, it was interesting to see how much it is like so many others who are here. If I was just resting for the first little bit, I felt like I could tackle the world and also found out it was a bad idea. It took about 2 good months to really feel like I had energy again. Just give into and get lots of rest so the heart can heal.

[Jello2x]

I was fine the day of surgery n next day , them two days after and continuing I have had mini episodes . They consist of tightening chest, rapid heart beat and almost like heartburn. It completely stops me in my tracks and is very uncomfortable . Starting to have anxiety!  Was this a mistake when it was suppose to make my future better for my family

[srcrosby]

How long after the procedure did you stop getting chest pain, my doc. wants me to exercise because I only get vtach when doing so.  So he want me to do this before my appointment in Feb. not gonna lie I am nervous about this anyway just wondered how long you had chest pains.

[hendy291]

Hi, I'm 20 years old, and I had my ablation for Focal Left Inferior Pulmonary Tack. about 4 weeks ago and I also have a lot of chest pain. Not exactly sharp and in my heart, but just really tight. It is also really hard for be to get a normal breath, and I get sharp pain at the bottom of my ribs when I try to take a deep breath. I'm experiencing excruciating pain in my shoulders too. I got to the point where I was curled up and crying they hurt so bad - and I am not one to cry over pain. Physical training is part of my job and they told me I could resume 'normal activity' after 4 days, but to avoid 'strenuous activity' for about 5-6 weeks. So I tried a little bit of light running, and the pain has sky rocketed and is almost constant now. I'm worried something is wrong but I live 4 hrs away from my Dr. Has anyone had this experience? Does it go away?

@ChloeRenee: Before my ablation I was on 25 mg Atenolol as well and it wiped me out and never seemed to control my tack. I switched to Diltiazem  aka Cartia, 120 mg 2x a day and it was much better - I could make it through the day without nap and I had much fewer episodes. You may want to talk with your Dr. about switching.

[Lizzie72]

I had my ablation for RVOT done 6 years ago. I just found this blog today b/c I was researching the medication I was put on. It's amazing to hear how similiar many of these posts are to what I experienced. I thought it was just me. After having my ablation my heart rate increased and I was diagnosed with hypertension. Prior to having the ablation my HR was normal (except when I had the runs of tachycardia) and had never had BP issues. To this day, I have not been given an explanation as to why my HR spiked and continues to run 90-100 at rest and 100 + with minimal physical activity. I am on Cardizem LA to keep my HR down and take anti-hypertensive medication.

[hendy291]

turns out my chest pain was caused by clots in my lungs - pulmonary embolisms. i am now on blood thinning medications... cumadin (coumadin) and lovanox. if you have extreme shoulder pain, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and flutters - go to the the ER right away!!!

[John688]

I did my pulmonary vein ablation surgery 7 weeks before. After procedure the first 1-2 week, I had more and stronger AF than I had before. Doctor explained to me it's normal. It did get better after 3-4 weeks. My feeling is the procedure may be successful.
But I am having a problem now is that my voice often turn to be coarse and weak, especially when I get tired. Even some time I feel a little bit pain in my windpipe area. Doctor is going to arrange a test for me.
Anybody has similar experience?

[Mickeymcolla]

My daughter 11 years old had Abalation for SVT on December 15,2011. We have had lots of SVT in the past year but on November 18,2011 she had her 3rd episode in 3 days, her previous Cardiologist said it was Vaso-vagal and ignore it. I called on the 18 and talked to the on call Dr. who told me to go to the er or fire station. We did and while she was 45 minutes into the episode they were unable to count her pulse, the portable EKG started at 239, while trying to get an IV in to give her some thing to stop the SVT she peaked at 289.  We started seeing the new cardiologist the following week. Who said the episodes were getting to close and to intense.
Her surgery it self was less then 2 hours because as soon as they set the cath in place to do the EP study she went into SVT. They did use heat to burn the "defect" but it was on the left side and for some reason that released blood clots into her system?! After she woke up her monitor kept showing PVC's but the nurse kept saying it was nothing to worry about.
Now tomorrow will be 6 weeks, she has been on asprin since the surgery. But the pain she has had it horrible. She has had pain in her legs, and hands... Most recently in her neck, yesterday she came home early from school with a stabbing pain just below her left rib cage and just under her left under arm. and also she is VERY tired, and extremely pale. Today she had the pain in her neck, and left shoulder (back side)...
While I have called her cardiologist many times and we did see him on January 17 ( the only time since her ablation) and he said he doesn't know what or why but said she is fine and he will see us in a year! Should I worry? I have to take her off of the asprin tomorrow, but I am so scared she is having blood clots still. She is a tough little girl and these pains stop her in her tracks... Please HELP!!!!

[CDoug1967]

I just had an ablation done January 31. I was fine when I first came home other than the discomfort at the catheter site. Since then I have been having tightness in my chest, pain in the chest, more arrythmia than I had before although its not as strong. This seems to occur as i lie down to sleep.
The pain is mostly a feeling of heat radiating throughout the middle and left side of the chest. It is not excruciating, but it is constant and occasionally it is a stabbing pain. I was supposed to return to work Friday but I was too short of breath and the pain worried me. The last time I was at work they called an ambulance because of shortness of breath and chest pain so I decided to wait until Monday.
It is 2:40 am on Monday now and I have been unable to sleep due to my heart fluttering when I lay flat and from the chest pain. Saturday and Sunday were bad and I almost went to the ER but I figured i could hold off for my appointment on Wednesday.
Looks like I'm calling out again and I'll try to get an appointment with my cardiologist.

[CDoug1967]

Well, I did call out sick the other day and its a good thing I did. A clot developed at the catheter site and traveled to the lung. I have spent the week in the hospital now with a pulmonary embolism.
If you have pain that lasts longer than 2 days or you have shortness of breath, see your doctor. It may save your life. Doctors told me I could have died if I went to work Monday.