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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heart2222 04/05/2012

I have had the bloating/GI symptoms. Now I have developed this sensation that when I swallow foods, it gets stuck in the middle of my chest. I have to use tons of water to wash everything I eat down. Could this be part of the vagal nerve damage? Has anyone else experienced this?

Also, I notice when I feel stressed , I get a pressure in my heart. Has anyone else experienced this either?

deleted_user 04/05/2012

Sorry you are having these difficulties, nothing is ever easy is it...

I didn't experience the symptoms you describe so I'm no help there.
I do know when I get stressed I can feel something in my heart and I usually go into a-fib.

Hang in there, healing takes time and patience...and no stress!!!

heart2222 04/05/2012

I'm trying, ohiofibber! Thanks!!

RN52 04/05/2012

From what I've read, the difficulty swallowing is a part of vagal nerve damage. I have not experienced it myself. When do you see your EP for a post-op check? I think you should see him soon, if possible. It seems as if you have a lot of unanswered questions that he should answer for you. We can all relate our experiences to you, but he should be telling you what is going on and hopefully easing your mind. Take care. I hope you start feeling better soon.

heart2222 04/05/2012

I don't see my EP until 3 mos and even then his schedule is full, so have to see him more like 4 mos. Since he's 3 hours away, it makes it tough to see him. This is the problem in going out of town to have this procedure done.

I would love to just talk to him on the phone, but can't seem to do that.
Thanks , RN 52.

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