mechanism of internal vibration

[arthur]

A couple of years ago I was successfully treated for focally-initiated PAF by rf-ablation.  Aside from the targeted focus (located in the PV ostia near the left atrium), several others were left untreated and have, as expected, resulted in a varying occurence of atrial premature depolarizations (0-4/min).  Although now 55 years old, I have been and continue to be an avid athlete.

Since the onset of PACs/PAF through to the present time, I have felt a curious internal vibration (anywhere from ca. 200 bpm to much higher, presenting as a "buzz").  This vibration is NOT due to PACs or other arrhythmia, as was proven by ECG recordings during which the vibration was quite strong and no arrythimias were detected.  Some clues which may be of help:  (1) these vibrations are located at or near the center of my chest, probably behind the heart, (2) they increase in frequency and amplitude with sudden exercise...or even upon wakening from a vivid dream, (3) they are loosely connected to the presentation of PACs, as an increase in the internal vibrations appears to be correlated with an increased level of PAC formation, (4) even though they feel quite strong at times, they are usually not palpable...at their strongest, I may be able to feel them at the top of my abdomen.

Discussions with my EP and other cardios/EPs have suggested that it may be possible that a portion of my nervous system is picking up the actual movement/signalling from my PV foci.  

My questions are two:
What do you think these critters may be?
What can be done to lessen my awareness of them?

Thanks

[CCF-M.D.-KE]

Dear Arthur,

Sorry to hear about the problems you have been experiencing. You state that your heart rhythm has been monitored during the occurrence of these vibrations and no evidence of arrhythmia was seen. These vibration could be originating from a non-cardiac source such as muscles, the lungs, the gastrointestinal(GI) tract or a medication side effect. It is difficult to comment on the specific cause. However, the approach taken by your doctors seem very reasonable. I would recommend continued follow-up with them.


Thanks for your question,


CCF-MD-KE

[Ianna]

Hello Arthur,

Hope you are well.
-
About your question to the Doc.
I think we can let go, I really do.
The search for answers regarding the vibrations I mean.
I 'feel' he is right.
It is non-cardiac related.-(this is MY 'gut'-feeling)-
Just muscles shakin' a bit every now and then.
Caused by anxiety (even a little bit), worrying, perfectionism,  etc., but maybe also by too much excercise and sports.
Isn't the body telling you (us) to: PLEASE slow down?!
-'I cannot do this anymore at this pace'!?
Oh, I know the spirit tells us otherwise, still feeling 21, ehh?
At least I do...and I suspect you do too...- I also know you're my age (and playing a very competitive sport) but you can sport and excercise all you want,  we still grow older and finally have to admit that we MUST listen to our body and slow down guite a bit.
That's tough, but in reality takes a lot of tension away from our daily living and gives us a chance (and time) to do other more relaxing things. Ergo, getting used to this 'other pace' is not easy but can be done.
I had too, but am still landing on my nose every now and then, thinking I can do what I used to ;-(
I'm sorry if I sound like- "I can teach you a lesson or two"- that's not my intention, but do you see my point?
-
Anyway Arthur, I'm going to wish you (yes already!) a very MERRY Xmas and a HAPPY and PVC, PAC, vibrations, anxiety and PALP free (isn't that optimistic) NEW-YEAR (2003)!!!
-
Thanks for your 'input' on this FORUM.
It was very helpful to me and many others.
I found it fun too... (now don't feel a saint, grow wings and fly away, we might need your expertise next year)!
-
Till we meet again, stay well!
With love and respect  -  ***Ianna***

[karie]

I too find these cardiac symptoms overwhelming, Have you found anything that helps ?
Sometimes when the pvc's are so many I can't sleep. I will see my cardiologist again in January for re-check since symptoms progressed. The holter monitor is a helpful test, But the cardio-beeper was the easiest to wear and stay busy. I have tried Klor-con ef tablets in water for a increase in Potassium and sometimes will supress all pvc's,pac's for 4 hours. The connection of onset and decrease is unknown. I think as many what can I do to help my heart and nervous system function better. My cardiologist that taking Magnesium has helped some. I khave been on 250 mg. for over a month. Here is to another power walk and hopefuly a pvc free night : Years..............

[arthur]

Too old to run around and play competitive soccer?
For sure...but it's really not an issue.  I intend to play soccer until something breaks that can't be fixed...so far, knock on wood, the cardiovascular and skeleto/muscular systems still work, even though the brain has clearly had some degradation noted.

Seriously,  I concur with your observations.  The neuronal/PV focal connection which appears to be producing these troublesome vibrations is definitely irritated with physical exercise.  So the price I currently pay is a heightened level of false anxiety which presents itself as the internal vibes usually associated with PACs.  I am willing to pay that price for the time being.  

It's just amazing that so few in the medical community have ever noticed this symptom before in folks afflicted with PACs.  It's clearly been observed by EPs working in large heart centers...so what we have here is someone unwilling to check out the historic record at Cleveland.  Too bad.  Because the folks so afflicted are no doubt relegated to a diagnosis of "anxiety" and left to fend for themselves.

Keep well.

-Arthur