Arrhythmias

[BT]

I recently had what I think is an Arrhythmia, that lasted almost 30 seconds. it might sound dumb, but I gave myself a hard thunp on the chest, and it stopped.  If it had continued, I think I would have been sick or passed out.  I am presently taking Norvasc, Atenolol, and Pravacol, for Angina.  I have had these Arrhythmias before, but they were not as long as this one.  Is this cause for concern?

[Cleveland Clinic, MD]

Interesting enough the first step for CPR used to be a quick thump to the chest and this breaks arrhythmias in some cases.  That being said the protocol has been revised and this is no longer included nor is it a good habit to develop.  I would recommend discussing with your doctor getting an "event recorder" to try to find out what type of arrhythmia you are experiencing.  This will help in guiding treatment.

[Cleveland Clinic, MD]

Thanks for your comments.

[Sandy T.]

Dear Alex,
I just wanted to ask if it is Amiodarone you are taking and what is your dosage. I was on Amiodarone for three months then had to go off due to eye problems. I find the best person to ask about medications is my pharmacist. I was given a 5 page information hand out on the life threatening side effects as well as the less serious effects of Amiodarone. Not everyone has problems with it and my doctor checked me every month for side effects. I was just one of those rare cases of it effecting my eyes [ I was told it is quite normal for light and sun sensitivity] but I started having blurred vision and alot of pain
Good luck to you!!!.

Dear B.T.
The doctors who respond to this forum are great. I'm sure they will give you the info you need. Good luck as well!!!!

                                      Sincerely Sandy T.

[ALEX LIDDELL]

30 SECONDS IS A SHORT TIME. I HAVE HAD ARRYTHMIAS THAT VHAVE LASTED WELL OVER ONE HOUR. MY PULSE RATE HIT 200 BEATS PER MINUTE AFTER ONLY LIGHT HOUSEWORK i.e. AFTRER WASHING FOUR PLATES AND WIPING A WORK SURFACE.AT THIS POINT I DECIDED THINGS WERE GOING TOO FAR OUT OF MY CONTROL.I WENT TO MY NEAREST HOSPITAL AND WAS ADMITTED  FOR ONE WEEK DURING WHICH MY HEART RATE SETTLED DOWN AND MY PULSE RATE WAS REDUCED TO 68 BEATS PER MINUTE.
I HAVE NOW BEEN PRESCRIBED AMIODEROLE TABLETS BUT I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW OF THE SIDE EFFECTS AND HOW COMMON THEY ARE.
PLEASE CAN ANYBODY HELP.
                        THANKS,
                               ALEX LIDDELL