Age 55, wt. 460 lbs.(now), no hist. heart problems. Weight fluctuated over adult life. Lost 110 pounds in last year, Cholestral always low (160's), low blood sugar (68) generally been in good health. Three weeks ago experienced short breath. Heart rate at 150, admitted to hosp. Diagnosed with Atrial Flutter most likely caused by severe sleep apnea. They did a TEE and cardiovert that got my heart back to normal rates and will do Ablation to cure the heart flutter. This will be done when I lose another 20-25 pounds to 'fit on their 'table'(limit 445 lbs.) Currently on Bipap and oxy nightly. Taking digoxin (0.25mg daily), Metaprolol (100 mg 2x daily), Lasix (40mg daily), Coumadin (alternate 10 and 12.5 mg daily).
My first question is about the coumadin. I'm paranoid because I have history of nose bleeds. With the Bipap I need to keep my nasal passageways clear but I'm afraid to blow my nose or sniff hard for fear of creating a nose bleed that won't stop. I have had some nosebleeds in the past that have on occasion lasted for 5 to 10 minutes bleeding moderately until finally stopping. I have had two nosebleeds in three days, both minor that stopped after applying pressure for about 5 minutes. I am stuffed up, not completely but enough to reduce the airflow. Can I cause a nose bleed that I won't be able to stop? If so, what do I do? Second Question, Doc said that there could possibly be another cause of the flutter and they won't know for sure until they do the Ablation. Should I get second opinion before or after the Ablation is done.