anyone else have a description of atrial fibrillation?? - Heart Disorders Message Board

asd repair · 01-30-2003, 12:36 PM

I'm trying to figure out if the spasm/fluttering in my chest is something to be concerned about. I would like to hear people's descriptions of how it feels.

My "episodes" only last about 10 seconds... I feel like my breath stops until they're over and my chest is squeezed by a giant grip. There's a fluttering or spasming in the *center* of my chest.

The location makes me think it's esophogeal spasms... only I've no pain... so I don't know!

If anyone else can describe their a-fib, I'd greatly appreciate it...

Thanks!

ladc · 01-31-2003, 07:50 PM

You really don't want to know how atrial fib feels like believe me. Having your heart feel like it is going to jump out of your chest at any minute is not fun. Along with your heart racing like a thoroughbred horse, you start to sweat intensely because your heart is working so fast. Not only that, you start to lack oxygen and gasp for air. I had A-Fib for over 5 years until I ended up having my second cardiac ablation. My heart used beat 270bpm when I had A-Fib. I am very glad that I don't have those episodes now at least, but they may come back.

lisha · 02-08-2003, 06:24 PM

would afib be considered if you heart is beating at 160 bpm , or could that be from having an illness, (pain) Thanks

02-09-2003, 02:23 PM

First, make sure that you have had an accurate diagnosis of atrial fibrillation. If so, then consulting your physician would not be a bad idea. If not, you should not 'guess' as to what you are experiencing. You can find out for sure by contacting your m.d.

prettywoman22 · 02-11-2003, 06:54 PM

ladc: I'm glad you are better. It sounds like you had atrial flutter not a-fib anyways glad that tx worked for you.

lisha: Your heart should not be beating 160bpm unless you are exercising. Other then that you have a serious problem that needs immediate treatment. Good Luck.