A Fib chronic

[maserpa]

My husband has been diagnosed w/ A Fib, but the Dr. cannot chemically treat well due to high sensitivity to cardiac drugs.  He has an appt. to consult w/ Cardiologist (Cleveland Clinic) next week for ablation--earlier cardioconversion did not work.  He feels worse w/ extra diruetics, Multac and Verapamil and now he is starting w/ the newest blood thinner medication, not to mention the hot and cold swings. After reading the various responses referencing ablation and the side effects afterward, has there been any newer advances as of 2010-2011?  Is ablation the next best step to recovery?
His main argument is he feels worse after taking the cardiac medicine particularly the daytime dosage rather than evening, is that an observation by others?  Look forward to hearing from others w/ like complaints.

[maserpa]

Thanks Cindy for your thoughtful insight into our predicament over the cardiac meds and ablation alternative.  Your explanation was helpful--will keep you posted on outcome.
maserpa

[cindy707]

I personally am a huge advocate of ablations but yes there are other options out there for people besides the meds for conversion like AED's that are used in a hospital setting.  My theory always was that meds are a treatment and an ablation is a cure to me depending on the skills of the ablator.  Boilerplate ablations are pretty non invasive, quick recovery, almost instant results except for a couple of residual things that pop up for most of us.  I think it is a personal choice anyone makes in deciding which way to go on this and think that everyone should look at every option available out there to them no matter what.  Ablations have not changed that i am aware of since last year unless i am missing something.  Most docs do not burn the area anymore because of the issues with scar tissue build up that could effect the results short and long term alike.  Most docs now either freeze or use RF waves to correct the situation and docs or the majority of them do not go thru the femoral arteries anymore just thru a vein in the groin area.  I would look at all options open to you in order to make and informed decision...good luck to you and your husband....i am in my mid 50's, four years out of the ablation and am doing amazing...