Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Hi Doctor. My Name Is Yasmin. Some Background Facts About
Question: Hi doctor. My name is Yasmin.
Some background facts about me:
Hi, I am 64 year old woman. I measure 1.50cm And my weight is 54 kg
I am not drinker nor smoker.
I eat healthy.
My blood pressure has been always good and a bit on low side.
I do not exercise except going most of days for a walk.
Medications and conditions:
I have been diagnosed with an over active thyroid 6 years ego. This has been so far well under controlled (for the past 6 years) by taking:
-Carbimazole 5mg, once a day in mornings
I also have high cholesterol which is controlled by taking:
-Crestor 10mg, once a day in mornings.
I also take
-aspirin 100mg once a day
-magnesium supplement
I have also mild gastritis and on occasions I have stomach upset I take
- somac 40mg one at night
My Other conditions is having AF
For the past 20 years I had at times feeling of flutter, palpitation, uncomfortable flip-flopping in my chest and feeling of Lightheadedness. But never showed anything when I went to doctors and the ECG was always showing normal heart beat. 7 years ego on a trip to emergency room, they detected that I was having irregular heartbeat.
And after being followed by cardiologist and she put Medtronic on me (I had it for 3 years) I was told that I have occasional AF plus occasional atrial ectopics and atrial bigeminy.. I have not been explain quite how often I use to get these. But they seemed unfrequent, months nothing and suddenly few episodes one after other. The atrial bigeminy, were happening more often. So the cardiologist put me on Metoprolol to control the symptoms. She performed couple of echocardiogram and stress test the result was normal. And the cardiologist at time considered me to me on low risk.
At the moment I do not have the Medtronic any more. But I do get the symptoms, so I%E2%80%99m aware of getting them occasionally.
Instead I have been given flecainide 50mg and metoprolol tablet to take only when I get these and does not resolve fast.
My cardiologist also discussed that if the episodes happened more frequently then I could take flecainide 50mg and metoprolol everyday.
Some additional information: I had a blood test recently all was good, including my thyroid and cholesterol.
And I had echocardiogram and stress test 9 months ego all was normal!
Now the reason for this consultation:
Since Couple of weeks ego, again my heart symptoms started. It happens and then resolves after 20 min to half an hour. Couple days nothing then suddenly happens again.
Also I am not on Metoprolol on regular base anymore, as my heart beat at times fell low and also I have low blood pressure so cardiologist decided to stop metoprolol.
As I have to decide on when to take my medications, I would like to get a better understandings and would be grateful to get more informations.
My questions:
1-at times my heart beat do not go too high. But still I feel quite uncomfortable flip flap in my chest and while checking my heart rate on my apple watch is showing fast up and down in between 60 tp 85 is this having atrial ectopics and atrial bigeminy or still form of AF.?
2-could I take flecainide even if I only have atrial ectopics and atrial bigeminy or only in case of AF?
3-should I take metoprolol with it as well, even though my heart rate goes down to 60 at times?
4- When should I consider taking flecainide and metoprolol everyday.? Or in another word how often I get these episodes could justify taking them on daily base?
(As so far I have episodes coming back for few weeks and then nothing for months. Although this time is going for couple weeks and still I get them once or twice every other day)
5- is it possible to have these medication for period of few weeks and stop and restart if the episodes come back? Or you should stay on it once you start taking daily?
6- is it better to let the episodes to resolve by itself if not too long, or I better take medication to resolve it faster?.
Thank you so much looking forward to get some clarifications.
Some background facts about me:
Hi, I am 64 year old woman. I measure 1.50cm And my weight is 54 kg
I am not drinker nor smoker.
I eat healthy.
My blood pressure has been always good and a bit on low side.
I do not exercise except going most of days for a walk.
Medications and conditions:
I have been diagnosed with an over active thyroid 6 years ego. This has been so far well under controlled (for the past 6 years) by taking:
-Carbimazole 5mg, once a day in mornings
I also have high cholesterol which is controlled by taking:
-Crestor 10mg, once a day in mornings.
I also take
-aspirin 100mg once a day
-magnesium supplement
I have also mild gastritis and on occasions I have stomach upset I take
- somac 40mg one at night
My Other conditions is having AF
For the past 20 years I had at times feeling of flutter, palpitation, uncomfortable flip-flopping in my chest and feeling of Lightheadedness. But never showed anything when I went to doctors and the ECG was always showing normal heart beat. 7 years ego on a trip to emergency room, they detected that I was having irregular heartbeat.
And after being followed by cardiologist and she put Medtronic on me (I had it for 3 years) I was told that I have occasional AF plus occasional atrial ectopics and atrial bigeminy.. I have not been explain quite how often I use to get these. But they seemed unfrequent, months nothing and suddenly few episodes one after other. The atrial bigeminy, were happening more often. So the cardiologist put me on Metoprolol to control the symptoms. She performed couple of echocardiogram and stress test the result was normal. And the cardiologist at time considered me to me on low risk.
At the moment I do not have the Medtronic any more. But I do get the symptoms, so I%E2%80%99m aware of getting them occasionally.
Instead I have been given flecainide 50mg and metoprolol tablet to take only when I get these and does not resolve fast.
My cardiologist also discussed that if the episodes happened more frequently then I could take flecainide 50mg and metoprolol everyday.
Some additional information: I had a blood test recently all was good, including my thyroid and cholesterol.
And I had echocardiogram and stress test 9 months ego all was normal!
Now the reason for this consultation:
Since Couple of weeks ego, again my heart symptoms started. It happens and then resolves after 20 min to half an hour. Couple days nothing then suddenly happens again.
Also I am not on Metoprolol on regular base anymore, as my heart beat at times fell low and also I have low blood pressure so cardiologist decided to stop metoprolol.
As I have to decide on when to take my medications, I would like to get a better understandings and would be grateful to get more informations.
My questions:
1-at times my heart beat do not go too high. But still I feel quite uncomfortable flip flap in my chest and while checking my heart rate on my apple watch is showing fast up and down in between 60 tp 85 is this having atrial ectopics and atrial bigeminy or still form of AF.?
2-could I take flecainide even if I only have atrial ectopics and atrial bigeminy or only in case of AF?
3-should I take metoprolol with it as well, even though my heart rate goes down to 60 at times?
4- When should I consider taking flecainide and metoprolol everyday.? Or in another word how often I get these episodes could justify taking them on daily base?
(As so far I have episodes coming back for few weeks and then nothing for months. Although this time is going for couple weeks and still I get them once or twice every other day)
5- is it possible to have these medication for period of few weeks and stop and restart if the episodes come back? Or you should stay on it once you start taking daily?
6- is it better to let the episodes to resolve by itself if not too long, or I better take medication to resolve it faster?.
Thank you so much looking forward to get some clarifications.
Hi doctor. My name is Yasmin.
Some background facts about me:
Hi, I am 64 year old woman. I measure 1.50cm And my weight is 54 kg
I am not drinker nor smoker.
I eat healthy.
My blood pressure has been always good and a bit on low side.
I do not exercise except going most of days for a walk.
Medications and conditions:
I have been diagnosed with an over active thyroid 6 years ego. This has been so far well under controlled (for the past 6 years) by taking:
-Carbimazole 5mg, once a day in mornings
I also have high cholesterol which is controlled by taking:
-Crestor 10mg, once a day in mornings.
I also take
-aspirin 100mg once a day
-magnesium supplement
I have also mild gastritis and on occasions I have stomach upset I take
- somac 40mg one at night
My Other conditions is having AF
For the past 20 years I had at times feeling of flutter, palpitation, uncomfortable flip-flopping in my chest and feeling of Lightheadedness. But never showed anything when I went to doctors and the ECG was always showing normal heart beat. 7 years ego on a trip to emergency room, they detected that I was having irregular heartbeat.
And after being followed by cardiologist and she put Medtronic on me (I had it for 3 years) I was told that I have occasional AF plus occasional atrial ectopics and atrial bigeminy.. I have not been explain quite how often I use to get these. But they seemed unfrequent, months nothing and suddenly few episodes one after other. The atrial bigeminy, were happening more often. So the cardiologist put me on Metoprolol to control the symptoms. She performed couple of echocardiogram and stress test the result was normal. And the cardiologist at time considered me to me on low risk.
At the moment I do not have the Medtronic any more. But I do get the symptoms, so I%E2%80%99m aware of getting them occasionally.
Instead I have been given flecainide 50mg and metoprolol tablet to take only when I get these and does not resolve fast.
My cardiologist also discussed that if the episodes happened more frequently then I could take flecainide 50mg and metoprolol everyday.
Some additional information: I had a blood test recently all was good, including my thyroid and cholesterol.
And I had echocardiogram and stress test 9 months ego all was normal!
Now the reason for this consultation:
Since Couple of weeks ego, again my heart symptoms started. It happens and then resolves after 20 min to half an hour. Couple days nothing then suddenly happens again.
Also I am not on Metoprolol on regular base anymore, as my heart beat at times fell low and also I have low blood pressure so cardiologist decided to stop metoprolol.
As I have to decide on when to take my medications, I would like to get a better understandings and would be grateful to get more informations.
My questions:
1-at times my heart beat do not go too high. But still I feel quite uncomfortable flip flap in my chest and while checking my heart rate on my apple watch is showing fast up and down in between 60 tp 85 is this having atrial ectopics and atrial bigeminy or still form of AF.?
2-could I take flecainide even if I only have atrial ectopics and atrial bigeminy or only in case of AF?
3-should I take metoprolol with it as well, even though my heart rate goes down to 60 at times?
4- When should I consider taking flecainide and metoprolol everyday.? Or in another word how often I get these episodes could justify taking them on daily base?
(As so far I have episodes coming back for few weeks and then nothing for months. Although this time is going for couple weeks and still I get them once or twice every other day)
5- is it possible to have these medication for period of few weeks and stop and restart if the episodes come back? Or you should stay on it once you start taking daily?
6- is it better to let the episodes to resolve by itself if not too long, or I better take medication to resolve it faster?.
Thank you so much looking forward to get some clarifications.
Some background facts about me:
Hi, I am 64 year old woman. I measure 1.50cm And my weight is 54 kg
I am not drinker nor smoker.
I eat healthy.
My blood pressure has been always good and a bit on low side.
I do not exercise except going most of days for a walk.
Medications and conditions:
I have been diagnosed with an over active thyroid 6 years ego. This has been so far well under controlled (for the past 6 years) by taking:
-Carbimazole 5mg, once a day in mornings
I also have high cholesterol which is controlled by taking:
-Crestor 10mg, once a day in mornings.
I also take
-aspirin 100mg once a day
-magnesium supplement
I have also mild gastritis and on occasions I have stomach upset I take
- somac 40mg one at night
My Other conditions is having AF
For the past 20 years I had at times feeling of flutter, palpitation, uncomfortable flip-flopping in my chest and feeling of Lightheadedness. But never showed anything when I went to doctors and the ECG was always showing normal heart beat. 7 years ego on a trip to emergency room, they detected that I was having irregular heartbeat.
And after being followed by cardiologist and she put Medtronic on me (I had it for 3 years) I was told that I have occasional AF plus occasional atrial ectopics and atrial bigeminy.. I have not been explain quite how often I use to get these. But they seemed unfrequent, months nothing and suddenly few episodes one after other. The atrial bigeminy, were happening more often. So the cardiologist put me on Metoprolol to control the symptoms. She performed couple of echocardiogram and stress test the result was normal. And the cardiologist at time considered me to me on low risk.
At the moment I do not have the Medtronic any more. But I do get the symptoms, so I%E2%80%99m aware of getting them occasionally.
Instead I have been given flecainide 50mg and metoprolol tablet to take only when I get these and does not resolve fast.
My cardiologist also discussed that if the episodes happened more frequently then I could take flecainide 50mg and metoprolol everyday.
Some additional information: I had a blood test recently all was good, including my thyroid and cholesterol.
And I had echocardiogram and stress test 9 months ego all was normal!
Now the reason for this consultation:
Since Couple of weeks ego, again my heart symptoms started. It happens and then resolves after 20 min to half an hour. Couple days nothing then suddenly happens again.
Also I am not on Metoprolol on regular base anymore, as my heart beat at times fell low and also I have low blood pressure so cardiologist decided to stop metoprolol.
As I have to decide on when to take my medications, I would like to get a better understandings and would be grateful to get more informations.
My questions:
1-at times my heart beat do not go too high. But still I feel quite uncomfortable flip flap in my chest and while checking my heart rate on my apple watch is showing fast up and down in between 60 tp 85 is this having atrial ectopics and atrial bigeminy or still form of AF.?
2-could I take flecainide even if I only have atrial ectopics and atrial bigeminy or only in case of AF?
3-should I take metoprolol with it as well, even though my heart rate goes down to 60 at times?
4- When should I consider taking flecainide and metoprolol everyday.? Or in another word how often I get these episodes could justify taking them on daily base?
(As so far I have episodes coming back for few weeks and then nothing for months. Although this time is going for couple weeks and still I get them once or twice every other day)
5- is it possible to have these medication for period of few weeks and stop and restart if the episodes come back? Or you should stay on it once you start taking daily?
6- is it better to let the episodes to resolve by itself if not too long, or I better take medication to resolve it faster?.
Thank you so much looking forward to get some clarifications.
Brief Answer:
I would recommend as follows:
Detailed Answer:
Dear XXXXXXX
Welcome back to Ask a Doctor service!
I passed carefully through your question and here are my answers to your questions:
1- The palpitations could be ectopic heart beats (including bigeminy), as long as your heart rate is not too low and not too fast.
2- I would not recommend taking flecainide for ectopic heart beats, but only in case of AF. You can use it as a pill in the pocket too, if your heart rhythm is very irregular and you are feeling shortness of breath, lightheadedness, etc..
3- I would not recommend taking metoprolol and flecainide regularly as long as you have episodes of bradycardia and your mean heart rate is in such range (not too fast).
4-5- If episodes of Atrial fibrillation and cardiac arrhythmia are frequent, you should take these drugs regularly every day. But, in case of low heart rate (bradycardia), they should be used with caution. If you feel these episodes once in a week or in a couple of days, I would recommend performing a prolonged (one week) ECG Holter monitoring, in order to examine your heart rhythm trends for a prolonged time and make the right decision about your therapy.
6- If you have an irregular heart rate, coupled with other symptoms like shortness of breath, lightheadednes, suggestive of AF, you can take flecaininde as a pill in the pocket during these episodes.
Anyway, you should know that some ectopic heart beats are quite normal in every healthy individual during physical activity and anxiety, and do not need any treatment.
In the meantime, I would recommend taking plenty of fluids in order to prevent dehydration or electrolyte imbalances, which can trigger ectopic heart beats and avoiding caffeine intake.
Hope you will find this answer helpful!
I remain at your disposal for any further questions whenever you need!
Kind regards,
Dr. Ilir Sharka, Cardiologist
I would recommend as follows:
Detailed Answer:
Dear XXXXXXX
Welcome back to Ask a Doctor service!
I passed carefully through your question and here are my answers to your questions:
1- The palpitations could be ectopic heart beats (including bigeminy), as long as your heart rate is not too low and not too fast.
2- I would not recommend taking flecainide for ectopic heart beats, but only in case of AF. You can use it as a pill in the pocket too, if your heart rhythm is very irregular and you are feeling shortness of breath, lightheadedness, etc..
3- I would not recommend taking metoprolol and flecainide regularly as long as you have episodes of bradycardia and your mean heart rate is in such range (not too fast).
4-5- If episodes of Atrial fibrillation and cardiac arrhythmia are frequent, you should take these drugs regularly every day. But, in case of low heart rate (bradycardia), they should be used with caution. If you feel these episodes once in a week or in a couple of days, I would recommend performing a prolonged (one week) ECG Holter monitoring, in order to examine your heart rhythm trends for a prolonged time and make the right decision about your therapy.
6- If you have an irregular heart rate, coupled with other symptoms like shortness of breath, lightheadednes, suggestive of AF, you can take flecaininde as a pill in the pocket during these episodes.
Anyway, you should know that some ectopic heart beats are quite normal in every healthy individual during physical activity and anxiety, and do not need any treatment.
In the meantime, I would recommend taking plenty of fluids in order to prevent dehydration or electrolyte imbalances, which can trigger ectopic heart beats and avoiding caffeine intake.
Hope you will find this answer helpful!
I remain at your disposal for any further questions whenever you need!
Kind regards,
Dr. Ilir Sharka, Cardiologist
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Brief Answer:
I would recommend as follows:
Detailed Answer:
Dear XXXXXXX
Welcome back to Ask a Doctor service!
I passed carefully through your question and here are my answers to your questions:
1- The palpitations could be ectopic heart beats (including bigeminy), as long as your heart rate is not too low and not too fast.
2- I would not recommend taking flecainide for ectopic heart beats, but only in case of AF. You can use it as a pill in the pocket too, if your heart rhythm is very irregular and you are feeling shortness of breath, lightheadedness, etc..
3- I would not recommend taking metoprolol and flecainide regularly as long as you have episodes of bradycardia and your mean heart rate is in such range (not too fast).
4-5- If episodes of Atrial fibrillation and cardiac arrhythmia are frequent, you should take these drugs regularly every day. But, in case of low heart rate (bradycardia), they should be used with caution. If you feel these episodes once in a week or in a couple of days, I would recommend performing a prolonged (one week) ECG Holter monitoring, in order to examine your heart rhythm trends for a prolonged time and make the right decision about your therapy.
6- If you have an irregular heart rate, coupled with other symptoms like shortness of breath, lightheadednes, suggestive of AF, you can take flecaininde as a pill in the pocket during these episodes.
Anyway, you should know that some ectopic heart beats are quite normal in every healthy individual during physical activity and anxiety, and do not need any treatment.
In the meantime, I would recommend taking plenty of fluids in order to prevent dehydration or electrolyte imbalances, which can trigger ectopic heart beats and avoiding caffeine intake.
Hope you will find this answer helpful!
I remain at your disposal for any further questions whenever you need!
Kind regards,
Dr. Ilir Sharka, Cardiologist
I would recommend as follows:
Detailed Answer:
Dear XXXXXXX
Welcome back to Ask a Doctor service!
I passed carefully through your question and here are my answers to your questions:
1- The palpitations could be ectopic heart beats (including bigeminy), as long as your heart rate is not too low and not too fast.
2- I would not recommend taking flecainide for ectopic heart beats, but only in case of AF. You can use it as a pill in the pocket too, if your heart rhythm is very irregular and you are feeling shortness of breath, lightheadedness, etc..
3- I would not recommend taking metoprolol and flecainide regularly as long as you have episodes of bradycardia and your mean heart rate is in such range (not too fast).
4-5- If episodes of Atrial fibrillation and cardiac arrhythmia are frequent, you should take these drugs regularly every day. But, in case of low heart rate (bradycardia), they should be used with caution. If you feel these episodes once in a week or in a couple of days, I would recommend performing a prolonged (one week) ECG Holter monitoring, in order to examine your heart rhythm trends for a prolonged time and make the right decision about your therapy.
6- If you have an irregular heart rate, coupled with other symptoms like shortness of breath, lightheadednes, suggestive of AF, you can take flecaininde as a pill in the pocket during these episodes.
Anyway, you should know that some ectopic heart beats are quite normal in every healthy individual during physical activity and anxiety, and do not need any treatment.
In the meantime, I would recommend taking plenty of fluids in order to prevent dehydration or electrolyte imbalances, which can trigger ectopic heart beats and avoiding caffeine intake.
Hope you will find this answer helpful!
I remain at your disposal for any further questions whenever you need!
Kind regards,
Dr. Ilir Sharka, Cardiologist
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
So glad to got back to you doctor. I tired to follow our conversation but it did not gave me the option anymore.
Questions
1-Since I am not taking metoprolol the lowest heart beat rarely going under 53. except on one of my episodes of going high around 130 and falling low, the low was 43! Could this be still sign of bradycardia ? These jumping high and lows are typical AF?
2- Yes I have been given the option of pill in pocket. I am still confused of when I need to take the pill. Couple of recent episode I had (one last nigh, before I wrote to you) while sitting down, suddenly my heart rate was going from 70 to 100 to 160 and dropping low again to 60, the period lasted around 20 minutes. All along I was feeling the very uncomfortable feeling of flip flap in chest and at times light headed. I wasn’t sure what to do. so I left it to resolve on its own. My question at time was: was these sign ofAF? Should I take pill as soon as these happening? Is it ok to leave it without pill? Could you please clarify some of these?
3- i saw a cardiologist last week he gave me an appointment in 6 months. He talk about monitor but said he didn’t think at this point necessary mostly also as things could resolve and might not show any signs during a week period. Now that I still have these episodes should I make another time and discuss again option of monitor?
4- lastly doctor not counting pill is there any other intervention that could help me to resolve these? What are the risks?
Questions
1-Since I am not taking metoprolol the lowest heart beat rarely going under 53. except on one of my episodes of going high around 130 and falling low, the low was 43! Could this be still sign of bradycardia ? These jumping high and lows are typical AF?
2- Yes I have been given the option of pill in pocket. I am still confused of when I need to take the pill. Couple of recent episode I had (one last nigh, before I wrote to you) while sitting down, suddenly my heart rate was going from 70 to 100 to 160 and dropping low again to 60, the period lasted around 20 minutes. All along I was feeling the very uncomfortable feeling of flip flap in chest and at times light headed. I wasn’t sure what to do. so I left it to resolve on its own. My question at time was: was these sign ofAF? Should I take pill as soon as these happening? Is it ok to leave it without pill? Could you please clarify some of these?
3- i saw a cardiologist last week he gave me an appointment in 6 months. He talk about monitor but said he didn’t think at this point necessary mostly also as things could resolve and might not show any signs during a week period. Now that I still have these episodes should I make another time and discuss again option of monitor?
4- lastly doctor not counting pill is there any other intervention that could help me to resolve these? What are the risks?
So glad to got back to you doctor. I tired to follow our conversation but it did not gave me the option anymore.
Questions
1-Since I am not taking metoprolol the lowest heart beat rarely going under 53. except on one of my episodes of going high around 130 and falling low, the low was 43! Could this be still sign of bradycardia ? These jumping high and lows are typical AF?
2- Yes I have been given the option of pill in pocket. I am still confused of when I need to take the pill. Couple of recent episode I had (one last nigh, before I wrote to you) while sitting down, suddenly my heart rate was going from 70 to 100 to 160 and dropping low again to 60, the period lasted around 20 minutes. All along I was feeling the very uncomfortable feeling of flip flap in chest and at times light headed. I wasn’t sure what to do. so I left it to resolve on its own. My question at time was: was these sign ofAF? Should I take pill as soon as these happening? Is it ok to leave it without pill? Could you please clarify some of these?
3- i saw a cardiologist last week he gave me an appointment in 6 months. He talk about monitor but said he didn’t think at this point necessary mostly also as things could resolve and might not show any signs during a week period. Now that I still have these episodes should I make another time and discuss again option of monitor?
4- lastly doctor not counting pill is there any other intervention that could help me to resolve these? What are the risks?
Questions
1-Since I am not taking metoprolol the lowest heart beat rarely going under 53. except on one of my episodes of going high around 130 and falling low, the low was 43! Could this be still sign of bradycardia ? These jumping high and lows are typical AF?
2- Yes I have been given the option of pill in pocket. I am still confused of when I need to take the pill. Couple of recent episode I had (one last nigh, before I wrote to you) while sitting down, suddenly my heart rate was going from 70 to 100 to 160 and dropping low again to 60, the period lasted around 20 minutes. All along I was feeling the very uncomfortable feeling of flip flap in chest and at times light headed. I wasn’t sure what to do. so I left it to resolve on its own. My question at time was: was these sign ofAF? Should I take pill as soon as these happening? Is it ok to leave it without pill? Could you please clarify some of these?
3- i saw a cardiologist last week he gave me an appointment in 6 months. He talk about monitor but said he didn’t think at this point necessary mostly also as things could resolve and might not show any signs during a week period. Now that I still have these episodes should I make another time and discuss again option of monitor?
4- lastly doctor not counting pill is there any other intervention that could help me to resolve these? What are the risks?
Brief Answer:
I would explain as follows:
Detailed Answer:
Hello again!
Thank you for the additional information!
The episode of last night, that you describe could be AF, but it is necessary to closely monitor your radial heart rhythm ( if it is regular or irregular) in order to conclude about AF. AF is associated with an irregular heart rhythm with a high heart rate. In such a case, taking flecainide would help improve the situation.
I would recommend discussing with your doctor on the heart monitor again, as it is the only way to determine if these episodes are AF and clarify if you need to take this medication in continuation.
Regarding heart rate 42, it is quite low and indicates bradycardia.
But the heart rate fluctuations that you refer, are not indicative of AF, as these heart fluctuations could be related to physical activity or anxiety.
Only by examining your heart rhythm on the Holter monitor, we can determine if you need any other interventions besides medical therapy.
Hope you will find this information helpful!
If you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to ask me again!
Wishing all the best,
Dr.Iliri
I would explain as follows:
Detailed Answer:
Hello again!
Thank you for the additional information!
The episode of last night, that you describe could be AF, but it is necessary to closely monitor your radial heart rhythm ( if it is regular or irregular) in order to conclude about AF. AF is associated with an irregular heart rhythm with a high heart rate. In such a case, taking flecainide would help improve the situation.
I would recommend discussing with your doctor on the heart monitor again, as it is the only way to determine if these episodes are AF and clarify if you need to take this medication in continuation.
Regarding heart rate 42, it is quite low and indicates bradycardia.
But the heart rate fluctuations that you refer, are not indicative of AF, as these heart fluctuations could be related to physical activity or anxiety.
Only by examining your heart rhythm on the Holter monitor, we can determine if you need any other interventions besides medical therapy.
Hope you will find this information helpful!
If you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to ask me again!
Wishing all the best,
Dr.Iliri
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Arnab Banerjee
Brief Answer:
I would explain as follows:
Detailed Answer:
Hello again!
Thank you for the additional information!
The episode of last night, that you describe could be AF, but it is necessary to closely monitor your radial heart rhythm ( if it is regular or irregular) in order to conclude about AF. AF is associated with an irregular heart rhythm with a high heart rate. In such a case, taking flecainide would help improve the situation.
I would recommend discussing with your doctor on the heart monitor again, as it is the only way to determine if these episodes are AF and clarify if you need to take this medication in continuation.
Regarding heart rate 42, it is quite low and indicates bradycardia.
But the heart rate fluctuations that you refer, are not indicative of AF, as these heart fluctuations could be related to physical activity or anxiety.
Only by examining your heart rhythm on the Holter monitor, we can determine if you need any other interventions besides medical therapy.
Hope you will find this information helpful!
If you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to ask me again!
Wishing all the best,
Dr.Iliri
I would explain as follows:
Detailed Answer:
Hello again!
Thank you for the additional information!
The episode of last night, that you describe could be AF, but it is necessary to closely monitor your radial heart rhythm ( if it is regular or irregular) in order to conclude about AF. AF is associated with an irregular heart rhythm with a high heart rate. In such a case, taking flecainide would help improve the situation.
I would recommend discussing with your doctor on the heart monitor again, as it is the only way to determine if these episodes are AF and clarify if you need to take this medication in continuation.
Regarding heart rate 42, it is quite low and indicates bradycardia.
But the heart rate fluctuations that you refer, are not indicative of AF, as these heart fluctuations could be related to physical activity or anxiety.
Only by examining your heart rhythm on the Holter monitor, we can determine if you need any other interventions besides medical therapy.
Hope you will find this information helpful!
If you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to ask me again!
Wishing all the best,
Dr.Iliri
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Arnab Banerjee
Thank you Dr. Ilir Sharka,
Just some more information:
Up to year and and a half ego I had (Medtronic) a device they put under breast skin. I had this for 3 years. The cardiologist was monitoring me at the time, unfortunately did not discussed much on fluctuations of heart rate while I was having the episodes, All she told me though was that in fact I was having AF at times and atrial ectopics (she suggested the later was not a concern just the AF). The AF at times was happening twice a month, nothing for few months and again once a month for sometimes. But now I don’t have this device anymore. So not sure what is happening at this time.
I am still quite confused about AF. All I read about it suggested that heart rate goes very high, going over 200 beat, and very irregular heart rate. I did not have any ways to know my heart rate at times. But at the moment when I feel the flip flap in my chest I check my heart rates as I explain it goes high at times to 160 and low at one time to 43 and all in the same episode. Of course I do not know any Thing else.
My questions:
1- I understand you suggested that I should have monitor, is it ok to wait for my next appointment in 6 month or should I do it now?
you mentioned that heart fluctuations could be cause by anxiety. Admittedly years not knowing what was happening with all these symptoms in my chest, and later I was told I have AF episodes etc! I feel always I am alert of the possibility of episodes starting and any change in heart rate makes me feel anxious of the possibility specially when I am in company. In fact I stopped some of my regular commitments and activities in case I would start an episode in middle of meetings.
Question: in case of anxiety attack is the heart rated going too high and too low then?
Is there anyway I could understand the difference?
You mentioned “AF is associated with an irregular heart rhythm with a high heart rate. In such a case, taking flecainide would help improve the situation.”
If AF in my case is irregular heart beat going fast then falling low as few times happens to go as low as 43, would still flecainide can help?
And should I only take it with metoprolol. Or could it be taken alone as my heart rate fell low while having episodes?
question: not counting AF, Is there any other heart arrhythmia that could explain my general symptoms of at times irregularities plus the fluctuations rates? plus the other physical symptoms. As so far in the tests I’ve done there is no other obvious problem showing in my heart.
My last question: if I put the monitor for a week, and nothing showed in that period. Is there any other test could be perform to give a clearer image of what is the problem?
Just some more information:
Up to year and and a half ego I had (Medtronic) a device they put under breast skin. I had this for 3 years. The cardiologist was monitoring me at the time, unfortunately did not discussed much on fluctuations of heart rate while I was having the episodes, All she told me though was that in fact I was having AF at times and atrial ectopics (she suggested the later was not a concern just the AF). The AF at times was happening twice a month, nothing for few months and again once a month for sometimes. But now I don’t have this device anymore. So not sure what is happening at this time.
I am still quite confused about AF. All I read about it suggested that heart rate goes very high, going over 200 beat, and very irregular heart rate. I did not have any ways to know my heart rate at times. But at the moment when I feel the flip flap in my chest I check my heart rates as I explain it goes high at times to 160 and low at one time to 43 and all in the same episode. Of course I do not know any Thing else.
My questions:
1- I understand you suggested that I should have monitor, is it ok to wait for my next appointment in 6 month or should I do it now?
you mentioned that heart fluctuations could be cause by anxiety. Admittedly years not knowing what was happening with all these symptoms in my chest, and later I was told I have AF episodes etc! I feel always I am alert of the possibility of episodes starting and any change in heart rate makes me feel anxious of the possibility specially when I am in company. In fact I stopped some of my regular commitments and activities in case I would start an episode in middle of meetings.
Question: in case of anxiety attack is the heart rated going too high and too low then?
Is there anyway I could understand the difference?
You mentioned “AF is associated with an irregular heart rhythm with a high heart rate. In such a case, taking flecainide would help improve the situation.”
If AF in my case is irregular heart beat going fast then falling low as few times happens to go as low as 43, would still flecainide can help?
And should I only take it with metoprolol. Or could it be taken alone as my heart rate fell low while having episodes?
question: not counting AF, Is there any other heart arrhythmia that could explain my general symptoms of at times irregularities plus the fluctuations rates? plus the other physical symptoms. As so far in the tests I’ve done there is no other obvious problem showing in my heart.
My last question: if I put the monitor for a week, and nothing showed in that period. Is there any other test could be perform to give a clearer image of what is the problem?
Thank you Dr. Ilir Sharka,
Just some more information:
Up to year and and a half ego I had (Medtronic) a device they put under breast skin. I had this for 3 years. The cardiologist was monitoring me at the time, unfortunately did not discussed much on fluctuations of heart rate while I was having the episodes, All she told me though was that in fact I was having AF at times and atrial ectopics (she suggested the later was not a concern just the AF). The AF at times was happening twice a month, nothing for few months and again once a month for sometimes. But now I don’t have this device anymore. So not sure what is happening at this time.
I am still quite confused about AF. All I read about it suggested that heart rate goes very high, going over 200 beat, and very irregular heart rate. I did not have any ways to know my heart rate at times. But at the moment when I feel the flip flap in my chest I check my heart rates as I explain it goes high at times to 160 and low at one time to 43 and all in the same episode. Of course I do not know any Thing else.
My questions:
1- I understand you suggested that I should have monitor, is it ok to wait for my next appointment in 6 month or should I do it now?
you mentioned that heart fluctuations could be cause by anxiety. Admittedly years not knowing what was happening with all these symptoms in my chest, and later I was told I have AF episodes etc! I feel always I am alert of the possibility of episodes starting and any change in heart rate makes me feel anxious of the possibility specially when I am in company. In fact I stopped some of my regular commitments and activities in case I would start an episode in middle of meetings.
Question: in case of anxiety attack is the heart rated going too high and too low then?
Is there anyway I could understand the difference?
You mentioned “AF is associated with an irregular heart rhythm with a high heart rate. In such a case, taking flecainide would help improve the situation.”
If AF in my case is irregular heart beat going fast then falling low as few times happens to go as low as 43, would still flecainide can help?
And should I only take it with metoprolol. Or could it be taken alone as my heart rate fell low while having episodes?
question: not counting AF, Is there any other heart arrhythmia that could explain my general symptoms of at times irregularities plus the fluctuations rates? plus the other physical symptoms. As so far in the tests I’ve done there is no other obvious problem showing in my heart.
My last question: if I put the monitor for a week, and nothing showed in that period. Is there any other test could be perform to give a clearer image of what is the problem?
Just some more information:
Up to year and and a half ego I had (Medtronic) a device they put under breast skin. I had this for 3 years. The cardiologist was monitoring me at the time, unfortunately did not discussed much on fluctuations of heart rate while I was having the episodes, All she told me though was that in fact I was having AF at times and atrial ectopics (she suggested the later was not a concern just the AF). The AF at times was happening twice a month, nothing for few months and again once a month for sometimes. But now I don’t have this device anymore. So not sure what is happening at this time.
I am still quite confused about AF. All I read about it suggested that heart rate goes very high, going over 200 beat, and very irregular heart rate. I did not have any ways to know my heart rate at times. But at the moment when I feel the flip flap in my chest I check my heart rates as I explain it goes high at times to 160 and low at one time to 43 and all in the same episode. Of course I do not know any Thing else.
My questions:
1- I understand you suggested that I should have monitor, is it ok to wait for my next appointment in 6 month or should I do it now?
you mentioned that heart fluctuations could be cause by anxiety. Admittedly years not knowing what was happening with all these symptoms in my chest, and later I was told I have AF episodes etc! I feel always I am alert of the possibility of episodes starting and any change in heart rate makes me feel anxious of the possibility specially when I am in company. In fact I stopped some of my regular commitments and activities in case I would start an episode in middle of meetings.
Question: in case of anxiety attack is the heart rated going too high and too low then?
Is there anyway I could understand the difference?
You mentioned “AF is associated with an irregular heart rhythm with a high heart rate. In such a case, taking flecainide would help improve the situation.”
If AF in my case is irregular heart beat going fast then falling low as few times happens to go as low as 43, would still flecainide can help?
And should I only take it with metoprolol. Or could it be taken alone as my heart rate fell low while having episodes?
question: not counting AF, Is there any other heart arrhythmia that could explain my general symptoms of at times irregularities plus the fluctuations rates? plus the other physical symptoms. As so far in the tests I’ve done there is no other obvious problem showing in my heart.
My last question: if I put the monitor for a week, and nothing showed in that period. Is there any other test could be perform to give a clearer image of what is the problem?
Brief Answer:
My opinion as follows:
Detailed Answer:
Hello again!
Regarding your concern, I would explain that if these episodes are very frequent (every week, twice a week or more often), I would recommend consulting with your doctor earlier and not wait until 6 months. Otherwise, it is OK to wait 6 months.
If these episodes are so frequent, they will show up in the one week Holter monitor. But, it it results normal, and you experience the same feeling, it means that there is no serious arrhythmia going on.
During these episodes, it is Ok to take flecainide as a pill in the pocket, as it has a short term effect and it does not influence in later bradycardia. I would not recommend taking metoprolol, as long as you have bradycardia.
There are many types of cardiac arrhythmia : benign and some more serious. The ECG Holter monitoring or the Loop recorder are the best ways to determine the type of arrhythmia and also the best therapy.
There are no other tests to consider in your clinical situations , besides the above mentioned.
Hope you will find this information helpful!
Wishing all the best,
Dr. Iliri
My opinion as follows:
Detailed Answer:
Hello again!
Regarding your concern, I would explain that if these episodes are very frequent (every week, twice a week or more often), I would recommend consulting with your doctor earlier and not wait until 6 months. Otherwise, it is OK to wait 6 months.
If these episodes are so frequent, they will show up in the one week Holter monitor. But, it it results normal, and you experience the same feeling, it means that there is no serious arrhythmia going on.
During these episodes, it is Ok to take flecainide as a pill in the pocket, as it has a short term effect and it does not influence in later bradycardia. I would not recommend taking metoprolol, as long as you have bradycardia.
There are many types of cardiac arrhythmia : benign and some more serious. The ECG Holter monitoring or the Loop recorder are the best ways to determine the type of arrhythmia and also the best therapy.
There are no other tests to consider in your clinical situations , besides the above mentioned.
Hope you will find this information helpful!
Wishing all the best,
Dr. Iliri
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Brief Answer:
My opinion as follows:
Detailed Answer:
Hello again!
Regarding your concern, I would explain that if these episodes are very frequent (every week, twice a week or more often), I would recommend consulting with your doctor earlier and not wait until 6 months. Otherwise, it is OK to wait 6 months.
If these episodes are so frequent, they will show up in the one week Holter monitor. But, it it results normal, and you experience the same feeling, it means that there is no serious arrhythmia going on.
During these episodes, it is Ok to take flecainide as a pill in the pocket, as it has a short term effect and it does not influence in later bradycardia. I would not recommend taking metoprolol, as long as you have bradycardia.
There are many types of cardiac arrhythmia : benign and some more serious. The ECG Holter monitoring or the Loop recorder are the best ways to determine the type of arrhythmia and also the best therapy.
There are no other tests to consider in your clinical situations , besides the above mentioned.
Hope you will find this information helpful!
Wishing all the best,
Dr. Iliri
My opinion as follows:
Detailed Answer:
Hello again!
Regarding your concern, I would explain that if these episodes are very frequent (every week, twice a week or more often), I would recommend consulting with your doctor earlier and not wait until 6 months. Otherwise, it is OK to wait 6 months.
If these episodes are so frequent, they will show up in the one week Holter monitor. But, it it results normal, and you experience the same feeling, it means that there is no serious arrhythmia going on.
During these episodes, it is Ok to take flecainide as a pill in the pocket, as it has a short term effect and it does not influence in later bradycardia. I would not recommend taking metoprolol, as long as you have bradycardia.
There are many types of cardiac arrhythmia : benign and some more serious. The ECG Holter monitoring or the Loop recorder are the best ways to determine the type of arrhythmia and also the best therapy.
There are no other tests to consider in your clinical situations , besides the above mentioned.
Hope you will find this information helpful!
Wishing all the best,
Dr. Iliri
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
I got 2 episodes yesterday. All I can see from my side is my heart rate during the episodes going very high, yesterday went to 175, and then very low yesterday was 43, a variety in between, all while I was feeling the uncomfortable flip flaps. In first episode I took only flecainide without taking metoprolol first. I Thank you very much doctor for all your advices. I will call the doctor today to make a time and ask for monitor. I found one of your previous email in my junk mail that I haven’t seen before.. I know how to get back to you now. With your permission I let you know what is happening. Warmest regards, Yasmin
I got 2 episodes yesterday. All I can see from my side is my heart rate during the episodes going very high, yesterday went to 175, and then very low yesterday was 43, a variety in between, all while I was feeling the uncomfortable flip flaps. In first episode I took only flecainide without taking metoprolol first. I Thank you very much doctor for all your advices. I will call the doctor today to make a time and ask for monitor. I found one of your previous email in my junk mail that I haven’t seen before.. I know how to get back to you now. With your permission I let you know what is happening. Warmest regards, Yasmin
Brief Answer:
You are welcome!
Detailed Answer:
Dear XXXXXXX
I am glad to have been helpful to you!
Another possible cause to consider when there are such fluctuations in heart rate ( too high and too low) is Sick sinus syndrome.
A heart ECG monitor would help rule out this possible disorder too.
If you have any other questions in the future, please don't hesitate to ask me directly at any time!
I would be happy to answer to all of your questions!
Wishing all the best,
Dr.Iliri
You are welcome!
Detailed Answer:
Dear XXXXXXX
I am glad to have been helpful to you!
Another possible cause to consider when there are such fluctuations in heart rate ( too high and too low) is Sick sinus syndrome.
A heart ECG monitor would help rule out this possible disorder too.
If you have any other questions in the future, please don't hesitate to ask me directly at any time!
I would be happy to answer to all of your questions!
Wishing all the best,
Dr.Iliri
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vaishalee Punj
Brief Answer:
You are welcome!
Detailed Answer:
Dear XXXXXXX
I am glad to have been helpful to you!
Another possible cause to consider when there are such fluctuations in heart rate ( too high and too low) is Sick sinus syndrome.
A heart ECG monitor would help rule out this possible disorder too.
If you have any other questions in the future, please don't hesitate to ask me directly at any time!
I would be happy to answer to all of your questions!
Wishing all the best,
Dr.Iliri
You are welcome!
Detailed Answer:
Dear XXXXXXX
I am glad to have been helpful to you!
Another possible cause to consider when there are such fluctuations in heart rate ( too high and too low) is Sick sinus syndrome.
A heart ECG monitor would help rule out this possible disorder too.
If you have any other questions in the future, please don't hesitate to ask me directly at any time!
I would be happy to answer to all of your questions!
Wishing all the best,
Dr.Iliri
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vaishalee Punj
Thank you doctor,
I am booked for monitor 10 March. Just one more question so I know what to do meanwhile. On assumption that my condition is what you mentioned, while having these episodes of up and down heart rate should I still take flecainide? Or this won’t help or even harm?
Warm regards
Yasmin
I am booked for monitor 10 March. Just one more question so I know what to do meanwhile. On assumption that my condition is what you mentioned, while having these episodes of up and down heart rate should I still take flecainide? Or this won’t help or even harm?
Warm regards
Yasmin
Thank you doctor,
I am booked for monitor 10 March. Just one more question so I know what to do meanwhile. On assumption that my condition is what you mentioned, while having these episodes of up and down heart rate should I still take flecainide? Or this won’t help or even harm?
Warm regards
Yasmin
I am booked for monitor 10 March. Just one more question so I know what to do meanwhile. On assumption that my condition is what you mentioned, while having these episodes of up and down heart rate should I still take flecainide? Or this won’t help or even harm?
Warm regards
Yasmin
Brief Answer:
My opinion as follows:
Detailed Answer:
Dear Yasmin!
AF can lead to tachycardia followed by bradycardia too.
So, in my opinion it is less likely that you suffer from sick sinus syndrome.
Anyway, flecainide should not be taken in case of sick sinus syndrome.
Hope you will find this answer helpful!
I would be glad to review your Holter monitoring results as soon as you will be able to upload them for a second opinion!
Wishing all the best,
Dr.Iliri
My opinion as follows:
Detailed Answer:
Dear Yasmin!
AF can lead to tachycardia followed by bradycardia too.
So, in my opinion it is less likely that you suffer from sick sinus syndrome.
Anyway, flecainide should not be taken in case of sick sinus syndrome.
Hope you will find this answer helpful!
I would be glad to review your Holter monitoring results as soon as you will be able to upload them for a second opinion!
Wishing all the best,
Dr.Iliri
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vaishalee Punj
Brief Answer:
My opinion as follows:
Detailed Answer:
Dear Yasmin!
AF can lead to tachycardia followed by bradycardia too.
So, in my opinion it is less likely that you suffer from sick sinus syndrome.
Anyway, flecainide should not be taken in case of sick sinus syndrome.
Hope you will find this answer helpful!
I would be glad to review your Holter monitoring results as soon as you will be able to upload them for a second opinion!
Wishing all the best,
Dr.Iliri
My opinion as follows:
Detailed Answer:
Dear Yasmin!
AF can lead to tachycardia followed by bradycardia too.
So, in my opinion it is less likely that you suffer from sick sinus syndrome.
Anyway, flecainide should not be taken in case of sick sinus syndrome.
Hope you will find this answer helpful!
I would be glad to review your Holter monitoring results as soon as you will be able to upload them for a second opinion!
Wishing all the best,
Dr.Iliri
Note: For further queries related to coronary artery disease and prevention, click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vaishalee Punj
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
