Dr. Natale Answered Your Atrial Fibrillation Questions
Posted on August 27th, 2008 by Mellanie
Dr. Natale has answered the atrial fibrillation questions that you posted recently over at the Journal of Atrial Fibrillation. You can also post questions there for the next guest expert to answer. Please click on the link below to learn more (the doctors will not be answering comments posted to this blog).
Click here to read the update…
i am 71 and have developed afib in last few months. I have been to the er several times. Today my rythmn has been in and out all day but rate is not as fast as it has been 80 -90 - bp 117/70 My question is - how long should I wait before I contact a doctor - when it keeps going in and out of rythym
Dave,
Only a doctor familiar with your individual situation and history can make that judgement call. If you’re concerned, you may want to call your doctor right away. Even on weekends and holidays someone should be available “on call” for you to ask. Good luck.
Mellanie
Dr Natale:
I met with you @ CCF in 2005; I am Mario Ionno’s cousin whom you ablated twice. The time we last spoke I was not symptomatic enough. Well I have gone out of rhythm 3 times in the last 3 months. I live in Canton Ohio and would like to discuss the procedure when your in Cleveland or Akron the next couple months. Please advise….
Will enlarged atria effect my longevity?
B. Garrett,
Yes, enlarged atria can affect your longevity because of heart failure. That’s definitely something to discuss with your doctor.
We all walk a tightrope, trying not to lean too far to one side, such as jumping onto ablation or surgery too soon, and trying not to lean too far to the other side, such as by waiting too long and letting our atria get enlarged, making it difficult to even do a catheter ablation or surgery.
Enlarging of the atria is something to address promptly before it goes too far.
Mellanie