Daisy, we all go through these same feelings as you at times. Afib can really have an effect on one's life. If you are anti coagulated that is the boggy. I also am on Tikosyn and I have breakthroughs all the time. What helps me is to try and do breathing exercises so I don't give in to the tachycardia and bad feelings that come with it. We aren't in life and death situations. We just need to do our best to keep anti coagulated so we don't have a stroke. We need to watch our Afib triggers. We need to watch our stress levels and we need to exercise on a level we are comfortable with. Everyone of us are affected differently by our Afib. You will get more relaxed with it over time. Good luck in learning all about this roller coaster life with Afib.

Hi Daisy, I was diagnosed July '11. For the first month I was very stressed. My Cardio Dr. was casual, telling me not to go to ER or come to office when in afib. He said, as long as I was taking my Pradaxa, I would be OK. I thought about that and laughed to myself...that's the way it is.

I adjusted to my afib episodes. Stopped caffeine and alcohol. Took a beta blocker as needed when I had an episode. All was this way for 18 mos. No big deal I thought.

Then everything changed in Jan. Longer, stronger more frequent episodes. Ablation has been recommended. During this change, I was quite stressed. I didn't know what to expect. I still don't.

The unknowns are difficult to navigate through. But, one day at a time, we do it. Or sometimes, one moment at a time!

When things are difficult like this, I start a log and document everything. It gives me something to focus on. Especially, if I am unable to do anything else. I also like Meditation and Prayers.

The monitor is a good idea, sounds like you have a good EP.

The Serenity Prayer...Accept the things I cannot change, and change the things I can.

Thank you for sharing with us, we all care about you!!!!!!!!!

Daisy,
If you are on these sites for awhile, you will see that many of us with afib have just....how can I put it? FREAKED OUT! I just KNEW I was going to die on several occasions. Like you, I am amazed at how many sufferers go on like it is no big deal. Before afib, I never had ANY stress in my life. With afib, I got the oh so lucky experience of having my first full blown anxiety attack. One per lifetime is quite enough (I hope!) You will find lots of great advice here, talk with lots of wonderful people, and that will help you cope. But do not feel that you are the only one who has experienced great fear and anxiety with this. I think we have all been there, it is just a question of choosing to live, and how to best move forward. And let's hope for a cure! God bless you, and hang in there!

Bill

Well afib for me first affect u psychologically. In the beginning it makes u think you can have the BIG ONE at any point. Your heart sputters along like a lawn mower. I can handle the afib when it's at a low rate. Since mine involves tachycardia, sometimes in the 200's it really worries me because I am afraid I will pass out or my heart will stop from pumping too much. But u learn to live with it. I've tried 4 different medications, had 2 cardiac ablations and had attempted to cardiovert me 3 times. Right now I am trying to muster up the courage to workout. Afraid heart will be set off. You have to realize it can't rule ur life. I've only had afib for almost 2 years. I also have a very serious case of it.

Welcome Daisy! Before Afib, it seems we are really not aware of our hearts. Up until Afib days, the heart just chugs along in the background, doing its job, smoothly and calmly. I think the hardest thing to get used to about Afib is being so completely aware of your heartbeat. When it is acting crazy, it is hard not to focus on it and become worried. Some of the crazy beats we feel make us think "Woah! That cannot be good or correct!". I am glad you found this site. Visiting here makes me feel less afraid. Reading of others experiences helps me realize that there are so many people here going through the same things. Take care and good luck to you! Carrie

thank you all for the encouraging words.

I am with you Daisy-- A fib scares the crap out of me, too. I think it is totally normal to feel this way. I was diagnosed in March and recently had a few flare ups. I was just starting to feel normal again. Sending you positive vibes and healing energy...