I've had this for at least 15 years, but it wasn't formally diagnosed until 3 years ago. I've been on verapamil 180mg since then. Symptoms are mild. Now, my doctors are advising me to get an oblation. They way success rate is very high, and that afterwards, my breathing and energy level will be much improved. Would like to know if anyone can tell me what to expect after having it done. I have a high-stress job, very demanding and would not want to adversely effect it.

hello mm,
Well, I have SVT. I hear that having an ablation should be the last resort.
Anyway, read back there are lots of posts about SVT and EP study ablation.
If I were you, I wouldn't do it. Medication can control it, if it doesn't then
go ahead and do the ablation. My two cents here...
Good Luck...

Been there, done that, didnt think it was bad at all. Although I did have pretty sore groins for a good week so I would plan for some time off. I would agree with BB only do it if meds arent working.

Hi - I was diagnosed with SVT in Jan 07; tried meds and they didn't help. I had an ablation in early Nov. The arrythmia is much improved and my energy level is better...only downside is a problem at the catheter site on one side of the groin where I developed a fistula and related complications. That may take another 8 weeks to improve - but even given that, I'd still do the ablation.

I have had SVTs for about 17 years along with PVCs. they finally caught the runs I was having when I recently wore a holter moniter. I went and saw a EP dr and did a lot of research on ablation. I'm scheduled for the procedure Jan 24th. Althought there are risk, along with any invasive procedure, I feel that it is less risk than long term side effects of medication. I'm a nurse that happens to work for one of the top heart centers in the world. I'm terrified to have this procedure but I know that the meds only work 30% of the time. There are long term s/e to using beta blockers. I haven't had any yet but as I age I'm sure those s/e would increase. Albation has a 95% rate of being cured. I'm looking for someone to give me a positive story. I know all the risks of the procedure, but would like to hear of others stories of what they had to go through. I don't want to be on meds for the rest of my life. I don't want to wait until I'm 60 and have to do it than and have more issues to worry about. Any insite to the procedure would be great.

Mel,
I would think the ones that had the successful Ep study ablation would be out enjoying their life, don't you think? ..... What is wrong with being on beta blockers for life?
what kind of bad effects would it have? I am curious..... Meds are working for me.
25MG a day (half a pill every 12 hours) it makes me tired but I can live with that.
Maybe it is also aging.. smiles. I am 44. Like to hear your thoughts.

Hi,

I also am wondering about what kinds of long term s/e might occur on Beta Blockers? I have not heard this before.

Thank you!

When my husband had this and ended up in the ER they just upped the BP meds and that worked never another event. I think that the meds can make (men) impotent over long term use, not sure though but we have heard that. FLFLOWERGIRL:)

Hi guys!!! I am reading what you are all saying and am a little nervous. I have been suffering with chest pain and tachycardia for a 1 1/2 years now. I was told soooo many things, it was due to my H pylori bacteria ( gone now),gallbladder ( gone too), esophageal spasms, anxiety, hormones/ menopause.... I was just diagnosed and I cannot tell you how happy I was to hear it is NOT in my head. I am on 180 Verapamil and it is not working.... still have the symptoms almost every day and my quality of life-well 2007 is not a year I would relive for ALL the money in the world.
I have talked to several people who say it has really helped, but like the others I am scared to the procedure done. as with everyone,I just want my old life back!!!! Please, anyone with good stories please post to help me and anyone else out!!! Thanks and Happy 2008, it is going to be a GREAT year!!

mel501,
Please let me know how you make out... I am an x ray tech and know just enough to be scared/not enough to be wise. I feel like you, I am not going to be on meds for life, especially if there is alternative, and since meds are NOT working for me. Good luck

I had the abalation surgery done 10 years ago for PSVT and would do it all over again. I have not had any episodes of PSVT since then. Occasionally it will feel like my heart wants to go into a PSVT rhythm but then returns to its normal beat. I have had a few episodes of an irregular few beats here and there, but nothing the doctor is concerned with.

The groin was a little sore for a few days, esp. when I would climb stairs and such, and I wasn't able to drive for a few days. Other than that, everything was fine.

Good Luck!

If the meds aren't working, I wouldn't even consider NOT doing it! It's relatively non-invasive, and recovery is fast.

Thanks all! I went to Dr. today and definitelyl have SVT, saw it from being monitored from my last attack. I schedule for next Friday, wish me luck, not scared just SO happy to finally have this nightmare end. Thanks again everyone for all the positive feedback.

Wishing you good luck! I'm going in for mine on Thursday, so I'll be just a day ahead of you!! I'm not really nervous, just anxious, can't wait to get it behind me!! Good luck to you!

Itsmebeck, and all others have it done!!
Good luck to you too!!! I see you are in the same town I am.... maybe we will be in the same hospital/dr. Don't know if I can put these down... Methodist/Dr.Puchalswki.
I agree, can not wait to end this all and feel "normal" again.

I'll be at BAMC with Dr.Gentlesk.. We haven't been here long, just since Sept.;)

Good luck to you!!! Keep us posted on your progress!!!