need afib advice

[redeye001]

Hi, I have been taking tikosyn for the last 8 days and I've still been in afib 5 of those 8 days. I'm back in full blown afib again so I believe that my condition of persistant afib has progressed to permanent afib. Now I seem to be not tolerating heat very well and seem to be sweating a lot. My heartbeat pauses a lot causing a breathlessness sensation. My next appointment with my EP isn't for 2 weeks. I'm wondering if I should go to the ER or try to see my cardiologist. Am I overreacting and this will pass and the medicaion will convert me to nsr if I give it more time. does anyone know how long a patient has to be taking tikosyn before a conclusion can be drawn as to its effectiveness. thanks

[lulama]

Can't you give your doctor a call, or his/her nurse..........and at least tell them your symptoms.........the sweating, etc......I know I get very tired from persistent A fib........I take diltiazem when an episode starts, but if it doesn't work, and I feel very bad I call my Doc...........I don't know anything about Tikosyn

of course, if your A fib gets very fast and irregular, you need to check in pronto........

[redeye001]

thanks for the reply. I hope the ablation works . I'll schedule it when I meet with my EP. I guess you just have to ride out these AF episodes and not panic.

[Sweetwaterguy]

I would think if you are not in normal rhythm, you medication is not working.  My first medication did not work, and I had to try another.  As you likely know, a fib is not life threatening so long as you are on blood thinners to prevent stroke.  Given your concerns, I would not hesitate about getting in to see your cardiologist as soon as you can.  
   Seeing an EP suggests you are considering ablation.  Because of my success nearly two years ago, I am a strong advocate for ablation.