What is the downside of multiple cardioversions

[Stomper215]

I am a 64 year old male, in reasonably good health, that about every 3 to 6 months goes into Atrial Fib.  Each time I go into AF my symptoms are worse.  The last time I got very short of breath, my fingers and toes were tingly, I got a slight headache, my stomach was upset and my lips were slightly blue.  I went to the hospital and was cardioverted for the fifth time.  As always it was successful and put me back to sinus rhythm which normally lasts quite long (3 to 6 months).  I should mention that I have CML but it has been in remission for the last two years and I am no longer taking Gleevec.

I am scheduled to be looked at by a group that kills the nerve endings in the heart that causes AF but there is an 18 month waiting period.  

My question is how many times can I be cardioverted and what is the downside of having it so often?

Thank you,

Greg

[claytex]

Dear stomper: From about 2000 to 2009, I had some where between 12-15 electro cardio versions and was converted with medication 3-4 times.. the medication usually never worked until they put me on one called Flecainide in 2010 ... I would take 50 mgs of flecainide daily and then when i had afib i would take 300 mgs and it usually coverted me back to regular rhythmn in 2-3 hours...In july 0f 2010, I had a heart ablation.. ( think thats what your speaking of) and I have not had a problem since.. It is working great.  only take 25 mgs of toprolXL daily... and thats it..I had my heart ablation performed at the Heart of Hospital of Austin in Austin, Texas and only had to wait about 3 months.. they were great and have the reputation of being the best heart hospital in the South West... hope this helps Claytex

[Jerry_NJ]

How have you been cardioverted, electro(shock)?  

I have had several (4 I think) electrocardioversion and I'd get more if they would stop my AFib, but they no longer will.  Fortunately for me my symptoms from AFib are not as uncomfortable as yours are.

There is a risk to everything we do, so it is clear there is some risk when one goes under anesthesia and has the heart shocked, but I think the risk/reward is worth it.  Here I assume the heart stays in NSR for at least 6 months, my was down to one week the last time I had one.

An ablation may be just what you need.  

Good luck,