Hello Murray

I was diagnosed with lone atrial fibrillation in 1995. I had a cardio
version which did not work, reverting back to the irregular heart
beat very soon. I was offered drugs which would suppress the heart's
rejection of another cardio version, but decided that I probably had
the condition for many years and did not want to take any further
risks with cardioversions or drugs.

So I take warfarin for life and have blood tests about every 3 to 4
weeks. I suppose you could say I have persistant atrial fibrillation,
but it does not hurt and I really suffer very few ill effects. As I
am retired it is not a problem attending my local GP for the regular
blood tests.

I edit my local heart support group magazine which I find very
rewarding and have met many interesting people in the heart support
group and the NHS in the course of my voluntary work.

I have tried to raise awareness of heart arrhythmias and our group
has just become affiliated to Arrhythmia Alliance, who write
regularly in our magazine.

Best wishes

Alan








--- In heartrhythm-AA@yahoogroups.com, Murray wrote:
>
> Hello to all and it's nice to see a new group in the making.
>
> My name is Murray and I am a 51 year old father with 4 children
living
> in the Channel Islands. I was diagnosed with lone Atrial
Fibrillation
> in 2001 which gradually degenerated into persistent AF by the end
of
> 2006 despite trying all the usual combinations of pills
(Flecainide,
> Amiodarone,Warfarin, Atenelol etc). So I had an ablation in January
> 2007 and, after a sticky start, it seems to have settled down and
is
> holding. I have been off all heart drugs since June and am fully
> involved again with my hobbies - golfing and sea rowing.
>
> I look forward to reading about the experiences of other members
and if
> I can help or reassure anyone else I will do my best.
>
> Good luck and good health to all members and visitors.
>
> M
>