Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Support Group

Atrial fibrillation (AF or afib) is an abnormal heart rhythm (cardiac arrhythmia) which involves the two small, upper heart chambers (the atria). Heart beats in a normal heart begin after electricity generated in the atria by the sinoatrial node spread through the heart and cause contraction of the heart muscle and pumping of blood.

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Heart, Blood & Circulation
/ Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Support Group

A Fib and glaucoma

marikay234
marikay234
I went for an eye exam today. It's been 2 years and I decided I should get my eyes checked before I have to renew my drivers license at the DMV.

2 years ago I had to have a visual field test because he noted some "cupping" of my optic nerve which could indicate glaucoma even though my pressures were normal. I really haven't thought about it again,
Had other things on my mind like a "fish flopping" in my chest LOL

Same thing this time, except he saw a "dark" spot on my retina in one eye as well. I have no idea what that indicates. But he is still concerned about glaucoma and referred me to an opthamologist this time to evaluate further.

I came right home and googled it and was surprised to find that people with a history of a fib are more likely to have normal pressure glaucoma.

Anyone else out there with the same experience?

If you haven't had a dilated eye exam in a couple years it would be a good idea, and make sure the Dr knows you have a fib.
yogacat
yogacat
I have progressing glaucoma, my dr. referred me to opthamologist for pressure test, and I was told it was normal. I appreciate this info. and will remember to tell them next time.
Thank you
DeeMR11
DeeMR11
For years I've had higher than normal numbers on glaucoma testing, but when the Drs. do further checking, my eyes are Ok---no damage.
But I've been advised to continue having a glaucoma test every 6 months.
D.
DeeMR11
DeeMR11
For years I've had higher than normal numbers on glaucoma testing, but when the Drs. do further checking, my eyes are Ok---no damage.
But I've been advised to continue having a glaucoma test every 6 months.
D.
DeeMR11
DeeMR11
For years I've had higher than normal numbers on glaucoma testing, but when the Drs. do further checking, my eyes are Ok---no damage.
But I've been advised to continue having a glaucoma test every 6 months.
D.
Moysra
Moysra
I think that your computer has the hiccups and your heart has afib. Do not worry about either of them
Moy...
pacyetep
pacyetep
Oh no.... something else to worry about.
missd12932
missd12932
I have normal pressure glaucoma. What else can go wrong????

Dee
marikay234
marikay234
Apparently a fib disrupts blood flow to the optic nerve and can cause damage even though pressure is normal.
I see the ophthalmologist next Tues so hopefully I will know more then.

Yes Petey...it's always something! LOL
ray2600
ray2600
oh common you guys just when i learned how to speak english , figue out my a - fib ,then my diabetes now this what is this world coming to ! that's it I am moving to Cuba !
deleted_user
deleted_user
I've had glaucoma for several years but just got diagnosed with Afib - so don't know that either of them are related. Glaucoma is treated by putting a drop in each eye at night and that's about it - or at least that's all its been for me so far. I know there are other things that can be done for it if it gets worse though. So far my pressures are holding on a generic eyedrop.
marikay234
marikay234
Finally, after 2 appointment cancellations (by them) I got to see the ophthalmologist today. He doesn't think it is likely that I have glaucoma, but the machine he needs to use was not working so I will have to go back to find out if anything is going on with my optic nerves. I asked about the connection between a fib and glaucoma and he said he doesn't think there is a direct connection in his experience.