My 2nd Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation - Personal Experience

My personal experience. 34 year old former athlete.
imdb.me/eddiejohnson
Please share any comments or questions below. This video is meant to be a resource to help others who are feeling anxious or worried about their condition.

[@larrysorenson4789]

I had two ablation procedures several years apart. The results in my case are very good.

[@debrascott8492]

I am a 70 year old female with AFIB. I also have Congestive Heart failure and Emphysema. I am undergoing the Cardioversion procedure on 6/20/24. My heart Doctor stated that I was far to weak and fragile to undergo the Ablation method. The AFIB has made my life a living hell. I am emotionally and mentally drained from worrying about where my next breath is going to be enough to sustain me. I am very concerned that this Cardioversion procedure will not help or be long lasting, however I seem to have no choice but to try and see. One thing for sure, I advise all parents to have a lengthy conversation with their teenagers about how they treat their bodies while going thru life (drinking, smoking cigarettes and drugs) - are definite culprits for a short life, AFIB and so many other diseases.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Try getting on some electrolytes. Especially Magnesium Taurate

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Sorry to hear that though

[@tonythomas3289]

I'm so happy I ran across this video, I'm having this procedure done in a couple of weeks and I'm terrified. I'm just going to do it.

[@curtismonkelien1223]

Eddie, I am really glad to see your video. I wish I could join a support group like this. I am 53 and was just diagnosed with Afib and end stage congestive heart failure. The mental and physical toll on me has been horrendous.The 5 meds that I am on is making me feel completely debilitated. I am now refusing to take some of them and feel noticeably better. I look forward to a procedure that will restore normal physical activity. I hope others will comment on how to deal with loss of work/income as we journey through this nightmare.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Sorry to hear that. Definitely get on a consistent dose of electrolytes, including magnesium taurate

[@JeffMcNeal]

Enjoyed your video. I also posted my story after my second ablation. My first didn't really work and I had the second one only about three months later. Glad you mentioned the feeling of pressure in your heart after the procedure. I just felt a "fullness" and it felt kind of heavy. I wound up in the ER just two days after my first ablation due to pulmonary edema, which they thought at first was double pneumonia. It was a REAL drag, because my heart was not in rhythm again. They gave me a cardioversion in the ER. Four zaps. Same deal. No results. Still in a-fib. Underwent a second cardioversion with my doctor, the next time. Felt good for maybe two or three days, then back into a-fib. The second catheter ablation, so far, has been a solid success. I hope you are continuing to do well. One of the things that really contributed to my problem, I think, was sleep apnea. I was in denial about it for a few years before I got serious about it and now use the CPAP every night and sleep GREAT. Anyway, thank you for sharing your story. God bless and continued good health to you, Eddie!

[@Embryo7Music]

Thank You! So much...I’ve had AFib for 22 years. One Radio Frequency Catheter Ablation in January, 2010. Another for AFlutter in January, 2017 & getting ready to have 2nd RFCA for AFib this month. I’ve become Highly Anxious as a result of the frequent episodes I have that last 24hrs or more sometimes 2 or 3 days a week. I don’t know how I’ve managed this long. I’m highly Symptomatic. I know when it’s coming on & when it stops. Thank You! For posting this video & Sharing Your Experience. It Truly helps...God Bless You...

[@PhiLeo7973]

Thx for sharing Eddie. All the best to you brother.

[@shawnshaible2736]

My husband just had his 2nd Afib Ablation at Hershey Medical Center,Pa.We got home today.So far this time he is feeling so much better.

[@alt5256]

Thanks for sharing your personal experience, I've been recently diagnosed and now a little overwhelmed with doctors information, so it's great to have a personal experience as yours, just to know how it works

[@QuantumOfSolace1]

Thanks for sharing-yep I agree it sucks!!! Good luck to you - you have done a lot of people a service.

[@BManStan1991]

27/m here recently started experiencing a fib. Thanks for snarking your story. Puts my mind at ease a little. It’s been rather scary.

[@jimhouston1605]

Damn Eddie. You sound exactly like me, and what I'm going through. Sadly, I am part owner of a bar, and that was where my issues began *lately* but I've been dealing with AFIB since I was 24 years old up until now. They tried cardioversion on me twice last week - didn't work. Still in AFIB but on meds now with another cardioversion on my horizon. The ablation treatment is also being discussed. Your video is really good and informative. I applaud you for putting it up. Thanks. Jim Houston - Charleston, SC

[@Zippysfriend1]

I’m just investigating for a relative, but your talk was excellent and appreciated.

[@kieranoloughlin]

Appreciate the honesty in telling us what your lifestyle was like. It does play a big fact when dealing with this ailment and keeping it at bay in the long run. I have traveled the same path. Personally I think coffee is the sleeping enemy when dealing with ectopic beats and AF .......... people drink so much of it.

[@curbozerboomer1773]

Moderate amounts of coffee are generally regarded as being a non-factor with AFIB.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Maybe. Everyone is different. Some folks can be pretty sensitive to caffeine. I still drink coffee. Drinking alcohol seemed to have more of an immediate effect on my beats from my past experience. Not so much after the 2nd surgery though.

[@JetFlix]

Great video Eddie. Thank you for the post. I was diagnosed with Afib earlier this year. I am a 54 year old male that is also big into athletics, a ten year bootcamp attendee 3-5 times a week. But not anymore. I have been on flecanide for 8 months, and still manage bootcamp twice a week at nowhere near the intensity as pre diagnosis. My question: after the ablations were you able to have your pre diagnosis exercise levels return to normal? I would like to get back into it as I should be, but I do not have the stamina to power up hills and do full body weight exercises. From what I have read, afib reformats the heart and literally overnight you go from being 110 percent effort to 65 percent effort. My EP says I should stay on flecanide and not think about ablation because it is very low grade afib. Learning as much as I can now. Thank you for reading this.

[@Last_one_before_I_go]

Thanks for posting this - I'm 62 and had a ablation done for Flutter (not fib) 2 months ago...seemed like it was taking but recently I'm having small attacks, 1 every week where I know I'm going out of rhythym. Takes 30 min to recover. Hope yours finally took.

[@MrConkee]

Thx for the video. I totally get what you mean about it causing anxiety. I went into the ER 2 weeks ago because i was feeling a fluttery sensation in my heart. Was diagnosed with afib. they didn't do cardioversion because i waited too long to go in. I'm now on blood thinners and scheduled to see a cardiologist shortly. I'm trying not to let it get me down but your right its constantly on your mind. Really want this fixed. I don't smoke, or drink, live a pretty healthly life style with eating choices and exercise. I'm 38 and never would have thought i'd have be having heart problems at this age.

[@andrewp1308]

Great video thanks for sharing! It's 2am and I just went into afib again a few hours ago, this is my 4th episode in 6 months, so ablation is now my next step I think. I'm 36 and don't intened spending the rest of my life being cardioverted every couple months (medications seem to have no effect on my afib) . The last 2 times i chose not to go down the ablation path and see if I could prevent through my own lifestyle choices but its pretty clear now this won't be going away without some intervention. Thanks for sharing its put me at ease about my next step (which is why I'm awake at 2am) like you said, "Just get it done'.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Yeah... sounds like you're in the same position I was in. At some point, the stress of having it done is less than the daily anxiety. Good luck!

[@ronpagtalonia1908]

Thank You for sharing your experiences

[@ASAPCarpetCleaning]

Having mine done in about 3 weeks..Im pretty nervous..NOT scared just Ive never had ANY surgeries before..Thank for vid!

[@daledurbin2354]

Eddie; I've had this back in 2015, heart repeatably ran at 160 to 200+ beats per minute. Went through Abrasion to kill off the nerves that cause Atrial Fib only to learn better than a year later that my Thyroid was way off (Cancer radiation had killed my thyroid) with the PROPER Thyroid meds I've had NO problems since! No pills since except Thyroid pill.

[@bobgailable]

I'm having my second one in March thanks for posting

[@mikedixon8741]

Hey Eddie. Thanks for the video I go for my first cath ablation next Tuesday and you have given me hope. If you haven't heard of Dr. John Sirak, look him up. He pioneered a procedure a few years ago at Ohio State called "5 Box thorascopic maze procedure". He moved to my region in Virginia and one day before my appointment to see him he left that practice and returned to Ohio. Crazy success numbers, and he does this procedure through trocars in your chest, with a fully beating heart. No bypass, no chest cracking. My luck he moved before I could see him. Going with old school ablation first but if I ever need a second one, 5 box for me!

[@nancasa1]

Brother...athlete here too! I had my first episode from doing 9 shots the night b4. Woke up with it. Have had an episode every 4 year ish. Recently, have have 2 within the last 1.5 years. Scheduled for ablation a month from now. Thanks for the input . Your story is similar to mine

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Yeah, the funny thing is, I can probably have a cocktail just fine now. Not ideal. But before it was like my heart was a radar and picked up an almost immediate ping. I hope your procedure went well!

[@c.l.bailey4256]

Are you still happy with your experience?? I know this video is super old but thought I’d check. I’m getting an ablation on 3/10 and I’m scared. I really appreciate your video!!!

[@jackienunez3673]

Oh just to add i still go to the gym..still active..i just take it easy..at first i was scare for my heart...but i just cant stand still and let this condition stop me from doing the things i love.❤

[@watchprince8948]

Hi Eddie...enjoyed your journey and description of the ablation. I too am recovering from a second ablation and yes, I had chest pressure while walking the hospital corridors. Will remain taking pradaxa and soltalol while recovering for 3 months until evaluation of my ablation. Good, steady sinus rhythm so far 3 weeks into recovery with the exception of a couple of short, AFIB episodes, that quickly reversed into sinus. How are you doing?

[@journeyon1983]

Hi Eddie. I had my first a-fib episode when I was 32 years old. It was scary and I thought I was dying and the nurse didn't help out either with her freaking out over my a-fib episode and yelling for a doctor. Anyways, the number of episodes were few for many years but increased over time to a point where I've now seen a cardiologist for about 15 years or so. I've been on many beta blocking medicines and calcium channel blockers but to no avail. The side effects of the meds are awful, especially the diarrhea. The Diltiazem ER 120mg pills I'm taking now don't have any side effects but it also isn't doing anything for the a-fib either. I go to see my doctor again in 2 months for a follow-up on how the new meds are working. If the a-fib isn't any better, I'm going to ask him for a heart ablation. I'm really tired of my irregular heartbeat that feels like a punching bag for Sylvester Stallone. A-fib most definitely affects your quality of life. You can have NO alcohol or caffeine at all, not even chocolate as it contains caffeine. No stimulants of any kind either. But even for me, abstaining from these things has no effect on whether I get a-fib episodes or not. Good luck to you Eddie. I know you're young but you're also not alone as an estimated 6.1 million people in the US suffer from a-fib. source: www.cdc.gov/dhdsp/data_statistics/fact_sheets/fs_atrial_fibrillation.htm

[@billgebhart420]

I've been admitted to the hospital to the Observation, Cardiac, and Critical Cardiac floor/unit 15 times in the last year and a half. AFib, Afib, Afib, etc, Cardioversion, Pacemaker, Pacemaker incision burst open, meds change, Cardioversion, Afib, Ablation and Sepsis pneumonia--Still ticken'--Thank you Lord for wonderful doctors, family and friends. I instantly know when I'm out of rhythm--I instantly get sick. Sorta like the feeling we got as kids when riding in dad's car, before the Interstate system, when he'd drive fast up a hill and quickly go down the other side--Your stomach would churn or roll, only with Afib it's your heart skipping beats and the beating fast changing every second or two, it hurts, chest pain and pressure and it difficult to breathe. I had my ablation in February of 2018. It was funny to hear you mention the part about the meds putting you to sleep. I remember asking the doctor if I was getting my "go to sleep meds" yet, and he said: "I'm giving them to you now. You'll be asleep in 12 seconds." I said: OK with a cheery voice and counted: "12 - 11, and knew I was going to say 10 next, but I never made it. :-)

[@MrPaulSoscia]

Thanks for sharing, it helps … Loved the tell tale heart (Poe) reference … funny

[@journeyon1983]

Just had my first ablation five days ago. I'm hopeful but wary. I still have atrial flutter, missed beats and double beats, especially last night. I know I have to wait at least a month to three months for the lesions to appear where the ablations took place in my heart. I'm glad I made the decision to do this, though, because it was affecting my quality-of-life. I was in a-fib about 50% of the time and that's when I made the decision. I also heard that if you don't do something soon, when you're in a-fib this much, it can affect the shape of your heart and be life-threatening and do irreversable damage. So making the decision was a no-brainer for me. I experienced the same things as you did, pretty much, but we have to live the best quality of life we can live. BTW, you have to totally cut out the following form your diet: Alcohol of any kind, caffiene and decaffinated products like coffee and energy drinks, too much sugar, chocolate and stressful situations. I know the last one isn't diet related but thought I needed to put that in. Anyways, thanks for telling your story. I am always watching "my experience with heart ablation" videos just so I can get an idea of how others are doing after their ablation. Thanks for posting your video experience Eddie.

[@mantewwwszssh8832]

How did it go , I'm thinking of getting it done

[@johnharper3404]

Thanks for the info dude I don't feel alone now. I think magnesium and folic acid is a good start for helping the body's electricity before and after the ablation.

[@iAbooRaA]

Believe it or not Eddie your videos helped me a lot. I feel what you went through, I've been dealing with fast and low heart beat for the past year. First time went to the hospital with 250 hr they told me it's a panic attack although I wasn't panicking so I was like okay maybe I need to relax. I started feeling skipped beats everyday, several time a day! Had a holer for a day and felt nothing that day it's like I'm lying about it. The doctor told me they saw skipped beats and fast and low beats but nothing to worry about. I kept getting worse until they decided to do EP study. They told me the Palpation came from more than one place so the ablation has a low risk to succeed. They put me on beta blockers but asked me to go to the ER if I felt SVT or skipped beats, Palpation etc to determine the cause of the problem. I still have skipped beats fast beats can't catch it on the ECG. The beta blockers not helping, I feel like I'm crazy. Sorry for the long post. But I know the feeling

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Hi Abeer, I'm not sure who you've seen, but I would try to get a damn good electrophysiologist. A reputable specialist. Ask them to do their best. Even if you have to travel and stay nearby for a week or two. It's worth a shot. I think what can be tough is when the signals are popping off in close proximity to your sinus node. Then the procedure can get riskier from what I understand. If they accidentally fry your sinus node for example, then that's when the pacemaker has to be installed.

[@iAbooRaA]

Eddie Johnson hi Eddie, thank you for your reply, this is what I am going to do. Look for a good electrophysiologist who understands my problem and can give it a good shot. I hope you're feeling gd now after your 2nd ablation

[@tylerc7606]

I'm 33 pretty healthy. daily cardio at work, 120s/70s BP, 50-60 BPM, but been battling this for a few years now and have come up to some episodes recently that feel like heart failure, or to me is what it would feel like. the first cardiologist passed it off as stress. every other doctor, urgent care, er etc up til recently told me everything is normal. in now scheduled for this procedure after feeling like I have been dying. the skips aren't so bad, the flutters that make me gasp suck, but the long pauses while trying to catch my breath and having that sense of doom like this is it, I'm dying. that sucks bad. I'm ready for this to be over. like you said I noticed the skips increased A LOT with drinking. thanks for the video.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Tyler C yeah... The mental part of it is exhausting. You have similar stats to myself. When my heart was gyrating at night after a good workout day, it started to really mess with my mental. But if you can alleviate the symptoms you'll feel so much better. Best of luck to you!

[@steveharsant9650]

Thanks for putting this up I am looking at getting this done , tmrw going to a specialist they are talking different meds to try and solve it . Research tells me the meds will not sort this so think I will opt or Catheter Ablation.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

+Steve Harsant For sure! Yeah, once the arrythmia gets rolling, it's really the only option I've found. I put it off for a long time in the beginning. But afib begets afib. Once it starts mapping, it tends to become more frequent. The only thing I would add to that is to take a good look at your diet/lifestyle as well. Good luck!

[@djbgatekeeper]

Thanks for a great post Eddie, I hope you are doing well? I have AF which is controlled the majority of the time by meds. I still get daily mini episode's of AF and skip beats when my pulse rises for any reason hence contemplating ablation.... for 15 years Ive had no alcohol or caffine... now that sucks lol.... keep well my friend and thanks again.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Dave Barker haha i hear ya. Find a good electrophysiologist and take care of it. It's so annoying to deal with.

[@djbgatekeeper]

Are you cured now Eddie?

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Dave Barker i feel better. Hardly anything noticeable. Occasional off beats but I'm bot sure if "cured" is the right word. But I feel much better yes.

[@djbgatekeeper]

Nice to hear that, cheers Eddie

[@jacquelinewright3921]

What is a pacemaker please

[@tarynmarchetto5915]

Thanks for the video Eddie. First episode 3 years ago at 41. Been hard core traing for 25 years 6 days a week plus wine and coffee. First episode sent me to ER. Only happens at night for me so trying to calmn down before bed sucks! Don't feel it at all during the day just anxiety thinking about it. Did you determine if yours was vagally stimulated? I'm pretty that's what I have because it only happens while sleeping or upon waking up. Thanks for any advice. Are you still feeling any missed beats or have they subsided? Best of luck man. Thanks. Tom

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Hi Taryn! After a day with intense workouts, it was always later at night that it aggravated me and seemed to kick on. This I believe is fairly normal from folks who have issues. I'm not sure if I was vagally stimulated or not. Exercise, wine, and coffee... hard to live without. Even harder not to have extra beats/arrythmias with! Lol. If I stress my system too much, I notice it. But it doesn't catch on to anything because once they burn those pesky cells down that kickstart the arrythmia, there is nothing for the electrical current to catch on to. They are like little antennas that latch on to your normal electrical beat through your heart (sinus rhythm). Instead of the signal traveling through properly it is constantly being hit with these speed bumps on it's way through the chamber. I hope that analogy makes sense. The ablation gets rid of the antenna or scars them down so they can't pick up the signal and throw the rhythm off. However, sometimes the arrythmia can be a symptom of an underlying heart issue. So you have to take than into account.

[@smsbarber9147]

Thank Eddie

[@beermilkshake]

Great video man. Very informative. How are you doing lately? How are the lifestyle changes suiting you? All the best.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Doing great. Able to train. Still drink coffee. Electrolytes are key. I also started using a CPAP machine.

[@beermilkshake]

@@EddieJohnsonActor that’s cool. Yes, ordered some electrolyte powder the other day. I’ve been using a CPAP machine for about 8 years now. Keep making videos!

[@paulywalnutz5855]

im an athlete also and it seems to be chest infections that get me, just had an ablation hopefully its gone now

[@spiritjourneyme]

TY for the Video. I have probably had medication controlled Afib for about 8 to 10 yrs., but the shortness of breath and my fatigue seems worse, so I am having an ablation done in about a month. My doc says the longer you're in Afib, the more difficult it is to get back into normal sinus rhythm. I was wondering how long you were in Afib, before getting your 1st Ablation? I am preparing myself for probably having to have 2 done, but I am 65 and don't know if the advanced age makes it more difficult. How long before you felt more energetic? Thanks again. Glad you feel better.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

The first week is pretty mellow. The first few days you'll have some pressure in your chest. But eventually it subsides. It takes your heart awhile to heal. But as it scars down it really is nice.

[@BlyssBliss]

Honestly I’m just watching this because you’re so damn handsome.

[@flight101]

Youre lucky youve had one !!!! ive been waiting 5 years in the UK for one let alone two.. id do,anything to stop feeling so suicidal over these demonic palpitations. I got no life, nor have i got £9000 to pay for it private.

[@jdawg5358]

Hi Eddie. Thanks for your posting to help people. Im an endurance athlete age 55 who began experiencing afib episodes about 6 months ago.I am really feeling a lot of anxiety over this and am contemplating ablation. My episodes happen one day per week for about 20 hours then it goes back to normal for 6 days only to happen again. The meds i hate! what do you think? is one day per week ok or should i go ablation?Thanks eddie

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

That is completely up to you and how well you tolerate the episodes. I know heavy anaerobic conditioning can have an effect. How is your electrolyte balance? Is there a particular training session that kicks it in? Typically if I trained hard during the day, I would usually have an uncomfortable arrythmia at night.

[@druo7840]

Thank you.

[@sekihiker]

Thanks for the comments re. lifestyle. I'll be cutting back and checking results.

[@ralphstadler429]

Just wondering if you're sure you get enough magnesium in your diet nutrition can be critical and of course drinking enough water

[@blazerman61]

eddie..I'm 54..first episode at 36 ..was a binge drinker have had 3 episodes since ..have you considered magnesium supplements and meditation..listening to your stories leads me to think they might help...also digestive issues play into it too...good luck..

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Thank you! Same!

[@jimjigga]

Thanks for sharing, I had a catheter ablation a year and a half ago for a fib, and I feel great, for the most part I haven't had any over alarming misbeats lately. I would get some from time to time, but lately nothing. When i do I can get a little anxious. Right now, nothing's been happening (knock on wood) I'm going to look into it more and read your posts about your research. do you have any books that you can recommend on the subject? I keep in shape and love to mountain bike. would like to know more about diet and lifestyle that can help this situation or prevent it from coming back.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Check out Carolyn Dean's books on afib.

[@geraldinehorgan8994]

Excellent …. Thank you

[@raggaroaringsound]

Thank you. I'm 43 and I've been cardioverted 3 times now, and scheduled to do a catheter ablation in December. Currently I'm in sinus rhythm, but can't seem to pinpoint a trigger yet. I drink a few beers now and then, but nothing too crazy. Maybe 10-12 per week. I rarely drink hard liquor. I do tend to stay up late for work though. I'm a dj and maybe the late nights have taken their toll. I recently quit caffeine, and I even stopped smoking herb thinking maybe some anxiety from smoking too strong of herb could have caused it. I'm very active surfing, kiteboarding, and grew up playing sports. Was there anything the doctors said besides drinking that may have caused the afib? Crazy when I go to the cardiologist and I feel like i'm way too young.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Hi Brian, lack of adequate rest (which increases your stress hormones), intense physical exertion (some of those activities you may get an adrenaline release from), caffeine, and alcohol are the main triggers. I've even found that laying on my left side can get it going. The problem is, once the arrythmia starts popping off, it creates a muscle memory-like effect, that begets more arrythmia. And it never goes back to normal unfortunately. Just continues to get worse. However, if you can scar those cell receptors down within the heart that are throwing off your natural sinus rhythm, then you have a %66 chance of not feeling anymore symptoms. That with a medication can help. If you've been cardio verted multiple times then you sound ready. Also, not sure if you're in the party scene as a DJ, but absolutely no get-right or Molly. Those are horrible for arrythmias. Even if you get the procedure and you have success, those types of drugs can bring the arrythmia back.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Hydration/electrolytes are key

[@lynnemagni3359]

Brian Sullivan

[@calvinellis8750]

My doctors are Dr. Shaw and Dr.Tee at the Oklahoma heart hospital ones a cardiologist and the other is a electrophysiolgest it goes in and out of sinus rythem they say give it a couple more months for the scars to heal it's real frustrating.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Yeah. I hear ya. My frustration going into my 2nd procedure was horrible. They say around 6months for everything to heal down. You may be able to take fleccanide as needed after.

[@w8lftr]

I had A-fib 2 years ago. I just went through what I thought was the last time. They shocked my heart to bring it back to normal. This past week it happened again but was A-flutter. They shocked me again. I am going to my cardiologist this week to discuss the procedure they are going to do. They are going into the upper chambers of my heart and study the T and P signals. They will laser the offending signals to get my heart into a normal state. This is supposed to be 90% success rate, and hopefully never have this happen again. I never miss a beat in my heart instead I am staying steady at 133 bpm. Great way to have a stroke,which I had last year after a ruptured artery. Can't take the chance.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

w8lftr sorry to hear that! Best of luck to you!

[@sparker931]

I had a pvc ablation 6 years ago. Unfortunately 2 weeks ago i had AF at 189bpm. My attacks always take place after a bacterial infection, this time in my kidney. I did have too much to drink the weekend prior as well. Alcohol is the problem! Due for a cardioversion in three weeks.

[@Amal10011]

Thank you so much for sharing this I'm going to do mines in coming Monday I am little bit scared especially I have a baby. I don't know what to do after surgery Hopefully I can Take care of my baby.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Everything will be okay. I wouldn't strain or carry the baby the first week. Hopefully you have family to hold the baby in the meantime.

[@TheBrianRaglandChannel]

Going in for Heart pvc ablation surgery this wednesday, wish me luck! Have many skipped beats a day, sometimes as much as 9-11 a minute, beta blockers didn't work, feel faint when I have the occasional heavy thump pvc, having done a Pensicola Florida Sacred heart, just subbed:)

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Yeah those damn pvcs. It's like someone is half-ass grabbing at your ankles while walking, except it's in your heart. Good luck!

[@TheBrianRaglandChannel]

thanks so much, sometime I have no skips for hours, hope they can find the origin, ever had a pvc so hard you could feel it in your lower stomach, during exercise? Had 7 yesterday during strong walking:(

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

No. I've felt everything in my chest. When I'm out of rhythm or having PVCs I know instantly. Sorry to hear you are having the hassle. Hopefully once they get in there and induce the arrythmia, they can target in on those cells causing the disturbance. When I was having issues, I had 100s of PVCs all day. I'm feeling pretty good now.

[@thegreattailz]

Brian, your story is similar to mine. Considering having this done. I have about 50 - 100 strong pvc's a day, 50m of atenolol doesnt really work. Very debilitating, on ativan for anxiety, thats really the only thing that works. Dont have a fast rate, but always an abnormal rhythm REGARDLESS IF IM WALKING OR SITTING STILL. Nothing seems to get rid of it. Tried magnesium, alcohol in small doses actually helps steady my palpitations.

[@TheBrianRaglandChannel]

Hey BEN JACKSON, I really feel for you, going for my 2nd surgery on the 8th. I tried Atenolol, Ativan, magnesium and whiskey, lol, none of witch helped, After I had the first surgery I was symptom free for about a week, then Bam, they came back, also had a complication, I had a DVT, blood clot in my right leg a week after surgery, spent the night in the hospital for that one, put on blood thinners, in about 6 weeks after the 1st surgery, the symptoms significantly dropped, but now the pvcs I have are fewer but very powerful, especially when doing exercise or when laying in bed, I strongly recommend you have the surgery, there is a certain percentage of people who are fixed by the first time, If you don't get it done it will get worse, it did for me, it made my life unbearable, please find me on Facebook, I'd love to talk about this with you, it so helps to have someone going thru it to throw idea and experiences at. I have done a ton of research on the subject and if there is any way I can help please just ask, this condition totally sucks, hope to hear from you, Brian

[@henrybucki7813]

i had it done in dec 2018 boy the knock out drug was GREAT mine was out patience

[@darrenharris1320]

God bless you

[@MyTorm]

Everything is in diet and lifestyle. The answer to correct AFIB, is eat healthy and exercises. If you run or think you are intensive deport guy, still does not help, diet is a big key of success. Diet and exercise together.

[@baynardrustin97]

Thankx man !!

[@ryanfarhat8201]

Hi Eddie, our pasts are very similar. How have you been since the second ablation? I've had 2 ER visits AFib related ....One from drinking, then 90 days later without a drop of booze, I had anaother episode with unknown causes at 3am...Both covertee back to nsr with only cardizem drip. I'm going in for the ablation June 2017. I am a gluten free, low sugar low salt, no fried food, health but kind of guy.....no booze no caffeine. The only thing I want to add back in is 2-3 cocktails or beers socially once per week. Are you able, or are those who have successful ablations able to get away with complete moderation for the most part?

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

After the 2nd one yes.

[@debramcnab9353]

Dr Carolyn Dean MD,ND... has great info about mineral deficiencies... particularly Magnesium. 2 of her books "Arterial Fibrillation...remineralize your heart", and her best book "The Magnesium Miracle". Since my Ablation, I take a her recommended protocol and it keeps my my heart steady, and keeps Afib episodes from happening. My trigger is food sensitivity and stress "not enough sleep "related. When you are in the hospital and during the AF procedure you are give mega does of magnesium and potassium along with other electrolytes in that IV bag. We go home without or little for a short time. My doctor never recommended continuing calcium, magnesium and potassium are the crucial minerals to regulate the electrical part of the heart. I highly recommend her books for info, but always consult with your cardiologist first.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Great info. Thank you for sharing!

[@mosichat]

The problem with magnesium if you have irritable bowel syndrome is diarrhea ... which makes mag use unattractive.

[@leo75loco22]

I also have the same triggers and the magnesium thing is so true. I’ll add drink and air pollution

[@philippineschilloutsession]

If you can’t take supplements have a mag bath.

[@thecyclinggreek274]

I am an older athlete. I got cardio-verted twice. I chronicle in my channel what I do where I can still train/race.

[@bernicerenee4989]

Thanks for posting this video, I'm heading in for my 3rd Ablation in August. Things are so out of control with my Afib right now so I am ready. It's been 16 years for me since my first Afib issues and 14 years since my last ablation. I should have done this a long time ago but the last ablation was a disaster for me so was just too afraid. Anyway I am failing on all meds right now so it's time. Hope you're doing well and staying in NSR!!

[@mantewwwszssh8832]

SO IT DOESN'T WORK , DR TOLD ME TO HAVE IT DONE BUT SCARRED

[@aaaaazzzzz57]

Did your heart beat hard after your experience of afib? Mine has been beating hard not skipping beats really just beating hard since my episode of afib that lasted three day before I went into the ER .. just wondered if that’s normal or need to go have it checked out

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

I think mine was just normal

[@Sfbaytech]

Zero caffeine and alcohol. Take magnesium daily. That helps and anyway it’s a healthy change.

[@MiamiAtNight]

I have had my 2nd ablation before,I beleive I mentioned it here,but never got rid of it completely,and I came to find sleep apnea can be the root cause for Afib for some,and so I did a sleep study and found I had moderate sleep apnea,so I will start cpap therapy this coming week,will let you know after a month how I feel after use.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Luis Skye interested to hear how that turns out. Definitely let us know! Good luck

[@MiamiAtNight]

@@EddieJohnsonActor Boy am I late to tell about my results,but yes cpap therapy for sleep apnea really helps a lot on reducing Afib because without therapy your heart is being depleted of oxygen at night,so that's a big issue and can bring about Afib if not treated,also untreated apnea can lead to heart attacks and strokes so whoever has got diagnosed with sleep apnea US THE MACHINE! don't worry about the mask wearing discomfort it's a small price to pay over put your heart through danger,you will get use to it. Also if you have GERD or lotts of reflux that can trigger Afib if you have it so take care of your gut health,eat healthy and take ant acids before bed because that's when it gets at it's worst.

[@hasantaskin3270]

When you first started to have AF, did you keep training or did you stop? Thanks

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

I was 30

[@ATXRoach]

Thanks for posting this. I had Afib back in 2013 and it was pretty traumatic. My heart beats got up to 250bpm. They zapped me in the ambulance. The ablation was done a month later and now I have episodes of Afib and it causes me to panic. I have small panic attacks that usually subside in about a minute or two. My doc said he thinks I have PTSD like systems from my original attack. Either way, it sucks living with this. I've stopped exercising but haven't changed my eating habits so I've gained weight. I'm trying to motivate myself to get back on track. I get the frustration of having to deal with the skipped beats while just living. Good luck to you. I know I need it.

[@johnramo6851]

i am on medication for af and have been for about 4 years. for the most part i am keeping it under control with the meds. my doctor told me if my body should become immuned to the meds they would consider the ablation for me. i do have concerns about the procedure i know i may have to eventually have to have it done. my main concern is possible death from the procedure which i understand is rare. i hope i can avoid this procedure but do need to talk to others who have gone through it. thank you

[@GeorgeStevens71]

God bless you

[@daledurbin2354]

I had Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation only to learn many months later it was my Thyroid that caused the A Fib. Have Docs check your Thyroid before you have Ablation.

[@lonipoe4824]

I am so grateful to you for posting this video my surgery is May 8th my biggest concern is or my biggest question is I should say is that do you feel better energy-wise since you have had this done? if I wake up one more day feeling lethargic like I have led for Blood I'm going to rip my hair out I cannot stand feeling like I've been out partying all weekend when I have not if you will LOL pretty much everything that you said reminds me of myself to a T.. Your like the male version of myself LOL I'm not afraid to have the surgery done. I've already had a heart cath before during a different procedure I'm just terrified that I am still going to dread waking up every day bc I know I'm going to have to struggle with feeling exhausted yet again. I want to be able to go up the stairs and run with my little girl.. Thanks for your time and let me know if you feel better now like I so desperately want to. :)

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

If you're having problems and you're tired of it.... then it's totally worth it. At least it was to me. I'm not hung up subconsciously all the time as to what my heart is doing. I feel much better. Worst case scenario it doesn't work the first time around or only lasts for a few years like mine.. still... totally worth it for the relief. I wish you a great procedure and speedy recovery.

[@kennethgay3689]

Having mine done in two days. Well I guess a day now. I've had afib for probably at least 20 years now. My afib has gotten so bad that I'm just now recovering *knock on wood* from a week long episode. It's miserable. It made me so weak that I couldn't perform daily tasks.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Yeah, it continues to map more beats and get worse over time. You should feel considerably better. Best of luck to you!

[@pjfreeman4789]

How are you doing now in Dec 2022?

[@johnforte5005]

Hey Eddie. great video. 57 year old guy here, I've been in Afib for over 10 years. Minor symptoms nothing life changing but since, I've lost 36 pounds and started eating more healthy and juicing I feel so much better. They want me to try a catheter ablation first before thet try an ablation...what would you say to me from your past experiences. Thanks

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

It was the only option for me at the time. The 2nd one seemed to have a better effect.

[@saburhiraldo3188]

I have afib was in yale hospital new haven ct again after 8 times I was asked about the surgery how is it

[@nickolestreitweiser3531]

I have afib but afraid of the ablation I take metropolo 100mg if is Ok for the ablation

[@eli7577]

I had my first episode of this the other night & doctors said I have afib. I'm 34 years old, I don't drink or smoke, eat very clean & train hard at least 5 days a week. I was hooked up to the iv bag but not until the next day when I woke up & went about my business did my sinus rhythm go back to normal. The cardiologist is telling me I may need to consider ablation which is all a bit overwhelming for me right now. Apparently I was really dehydrated which was strange as I drink at least 2-3 litre' s of water a day. Did you find that dehydration was the cause of a lot of your episodes & how are you feeling now? & are you still training?

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Yes, dehydration is definitely a trigger. Electrolytes are KEY. Even if you don't drink or smoke, some forms of anaerobic activity can cause it over time. If you are drinking a ton of water, sometimes that can also flush out some of the vital electrolytes from your body if you are consuming too much. Potassium and Magnesium are very important for electrical function within the body. I'm feeling better. I haven't been able to train as hard due to old injuries in my hip labrum and lately I've been dealing with an impinged shoulder too. But I am starting to ramp back up. I'm definitely better with the ablation. There was no other option for me. It was affecting my quality of life. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mpLXYoF5eZqfia8

[@eli7577]

Eddie Johnson thanks for the info bro. Are there any magnesium supplements you recommend? I'm trying to take in as much as I can before I make up my mind about the ablation. Scary stuff for me right now! The only good thing I've been told is that chances of it getting worse are slim as it's a thing that will come & go so is not permanent but like you I would like a better quality of life & not have to deal with the worry of it happening again or later on in life.

[@thagardner]

DEEPGAMEBOY check out Dr Berg's ablation video. I believe he sells some. Go easy though...take too much and you'll need to hit the toilet quick.

[@jordanrivera576]

If I were you I'd watch some of Dr. John Bergman's videos on AFib. Our bodies aren't craving drugs to actually heal for good. I have had a little A fib, but I'm fine now after making some changes such as taking in minerals such as Humic and Fulvic Minerals by Regenalife which tests really well. I've upped my magnesium (I take magnesium threonate because that really helps the heart and nervous system), plus a little calcium (not too much and definitely not pasteurized milk because that pulls calcium from the bones), plus I take potassium chloride. Dr. Eric Berg has a video or two that apply to your condition, a recent one about potassium. Dr. Dean adds magnesium to her water and drinks it all day long. I had many PVCs after a near fatal car accident in 2007 for which I had a ton of meds which I can contribute to the severe PVCs. I wouldn't think of taking meds for the problem I had. Dr. Stephen Sinatra, Cardiologist, has cool videos on this subject also, and I read his book called Earthing. He said that all the EMFs we're exposed to can be the tipping point to make atrial fib worse. Cut out sugars as much as possible! Be grateful each day and prayer and medication helps tremendously. I wish you good health. By now maybe you've improved, I hope so.

[@notrend]

Didn't realize you had a second ablation done. Just checking in on how successful it was.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

It's good

[@RashadUjaimi]

I have AF since few months now, it kicks in few times per week but i barely notice it, however, it cause me dizziness 1-2 times per month, i just started getting meds, do you recommend the ablation ? i'm 42 years old.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

If it affects your quality of life.... then the ablation is something you should seriously consider. The results vary per individual. For me.... it was a no brainer. It became progressively worse and worse. The 2nd time around I was experiencing dizziness and getting light headed. I hope that helps.

[@calvinellis8750]

Im 55 I'v had 3 heart shocks and two ablation since Jan. 29 2016 it's now Sept.3 2016 the first ablation was the cold ablation where they froze the bad spots it didn't work the second was July 1 and they burnt the bad spots and still hasn't worked I'm on blood thinners and Tikosyn a heart rate pill I'm frustrated.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Sorry to hear that Calvin. Who is your doc? What have they said about why it didn't work?

[@smsbarber9147]

Eddie I have arrhythmia once a week I feel the wired feeling in the chest but I can't describe how it is and also I get fast heart beats to but I don't know if I should do the ablation?

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

That's a decision only you and your doctor can make

[@reflectionsofthesoulbyvane6534]

thank you for this can i ask did these attacks make you tired and breathless? i have a heart rate that goes crazy when i am asleep"" no dr can explain it . you right about the drink ...........i know i must stop thank you good clear video well presented peace

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

I know that my arrythmia used to give me problems at night. Sleep would calm it down. The arrythmia can cause shortness of breath, yes. I would get with a good cardiologist. Hope that helps.

[@reflectionsofthesoulbyvane6534]

thank you be well

[@mr_kiz]

You should probably meet a sleep doctor and take sleep study. Some people usually stop breathing for several times while they sleep and that's called Sleep Apnea. Try meeting with a Sleep Doctor. That might help.

[@blakemoore666]

How did your esophagus do? Heard its quite risky burning right next to esophagus.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

No issues

[@lizardfirefighter110]

WTF over! I was a firefighter for 34 years. At age 62 I go see my doctor because my heart rate changes and the strength of the beats were also changing. Also my heart was skipping a beat now and then. My doctor pulls the the big red handle, and I go to the hospital in an ALS ambulance! Wow! So they titrate my rate and strength with some serious meds! Then they try to cardio convert me. That did not work after 2 attempts. After a month they ask me if I want ablation? They tell me they want to burn some of my heart to stop the Afib. The procedure will only last three years, and then I have to get it done again! So, basically after 6 years the Afib will likely come back, but then part of my heart will be fried! 😳 But I took maters into my own hands! I slowly phased myself off of the BS medications, cut out the refined sugar, the processed carbohydrates ( that’s right no cold cereals and no pasta or bread period! ) I stoped drinking coffee, and alcohol,. I started exercising and getting more sleep. Told myself that all the stupidity that drives humanity down a path of pain and suffering is just bullshit and I don’t care! I read the books “ Biology of Belief” by Dr Bruce Lipton and “ You Are the Placebo” by Dr Joe Dispenza. Today, two yeas later, I try to eat green every day and sublimate with vitamins C, D3, E, and Bs. Also with Magnesium, Zinc, Potassium and krill oil. I am drug free and my pulse stays below 110 and really my Atrial Fibrillation is more like Atrial Fluter. It is livable! I would highly suggest that you make important life style changes before Ablation. I would say ablation should be the very last option - if nothing else works. I am guessing you would want to keep damage to your heart to minimum as you enter your 70s and 80s!

[@lmitt]

Hi, Eddie. I'm older, 70s, though still very active, skiing, hiking, and bicycling, obviously more limited in this from the A-Fib, which showed up 4-5 years back, leaving me constantly out of breath. Ten days ago I had the ablation, which went without a hitch, no barfing, no pain, or any of that. But, the worst part--pure torture--was that catheter up to my bladder. God, that was awful! I had to lie for six hours flat on my back so the two openings at my groin would heal enough for me to get up and urinate, which I couldn't even do until then. I'm concerned that I may need to go through all this a second time. You mentioned they should take the catheter out before waking us up. I don't know if that's something they can or will do. What do you know about that? Second question: while not worse, I don't know that I'm less out of breath now than before the procedure, though I do seem to be 100% over the A-Fib at this point. Was this kinda your experience? Should I just expect to wait it out a few months, that all will improve with time? Many thanks in advance for your input........

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

The true test is the 6 month post ablation mark. That is when most of the healing has taken place. However, you should notice some improvement in the meantime. That catheter is no fun. I feel for you.

[@lmitt]

Thank you, Eddie. In this business, the only ones who truly understand are those who have gone through this. Agreed?

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Yeah. The docs will tell you to relax but they don't have any idea what having missed beats all day long does to your subconscious. Especially if you're an active individual. Best of luck to you!

[@lmitt]

You're obviously very active, much more than me. I was mainly concerned with my out-of-breath condition, feeling faint, not really relating it to missed heartbeats. Seems to be somewhat different for everyone. Good advice: take it easy, be patient, give it time, and see how it goes at 6 mos. as you say. Thanks to KZbin for all the available info.

[@meuzikman0181]

I just had my first cryo ablation for AF about a month and a half ago. Doc just took me off Flecainide and Blood Thinners 3 days ago. I haven't had any reoccurring AF, but about 12-15 skipped beats since going off the Flec. Was this something you experienced as well? I still have hope the ablation has worked.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Hi Josh, in my first ablation I was told that I would have the extra beats while the heart was scarring down and healing (approx 6months) Possibly even some intermittent afib. However, I am not familiar with the "cryo" procedure. The 2nd go round my doc just told me to stay on the fleccanide. I'm feeling great. Occasional extra beats depending on my caffeine intake. Does that answer your question?

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

And I did have some extra beats. Those might stay with you. The idea is to prevent those extra beats from kick starting the dangerous arrythmia though.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Yeah I hear ya. After my 2nd ablation I've had hardly an extra beats. Which is great. I dislike even the extra ones. But they told me after the 1st procedure that as I was healing that I may experience some extra beats until my heart had a chance to heal down and take to the scarring after 6months. The fleccanide may be something you can use if you get into a pickle where your heart is getting irritated by an activity. I think the term is "pill in a pocket". Or if you know you're going to be doing an activity that may set it off, maybe you can take the fleccanide ahead of time. Just to prevent an episode of the afib. I believe once the afib sets off, there is a muscle memory response. Which can become more and more prevalent over time. At least from what I've researched. My doc actually wanted me on the fleccanide longer but I went off of it after 2 weeks. Now I use it sparingly. For me I find if I drink too much coffee or do I highly anaerobic activity such as box (hit the heavy bag for rounds) then my ticker will want to get pissed at me later that night. Drinking is out of the question for me too. Has an adverse affect on me. If you have any more questions throughout the healing process just hit me up. Hopefully you won't have to do the procedure again. Just know that if you have certain habits that set it off, you may want to curtail them. I believe certain habits can cause a remapping of the issue.

[@suzymix8400]

Thanks for posting this Eddie! I was just diagnosed this past March at age 52. I'm sure the alcohol is my trigger, as I drink a lot of wine. I am struggling to stop - that's a whole other issue. I had a sleep study done and have apnea. I discovered I had a fib with RVR when I almost passed out at work.. My heart rate was 233 and they couldn't get it stabilized for over 5 hours. It was jumping all over the place. They put me on Metoprolol and 81mg aspirin, which scares me because I am a gastric bypass patient and am not supposed to have any NSAIDS. The Dr said, "What's the trade-off; an ulcer or a stroke?" One thing a nurse said to me in the ER is that they are now studying to see if rapid weight loss could have an effect on the heart. I see an EP for the first time this month and wonder if an ablation will be suggested, or if they'll see how meds do for a while. I bought the Kardia Alivecor for my phone and seem to always be checking my ECG. But I have afib attacks almost every day. This is all so new to me. I appreciate your putting up your personal experience!! It sounds like you had good care at UCLA. I'm in the Valencia area, so not too far.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Yeah, check them out. They are great!

[@veem585]

HI Eddie. How much time did you have to take off from work?

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

It depends on what you're doing. I'd say minimum 3 days. There is a bit of pressure buildup from the inflammation after. 7 days ideally. More if you can do it. No lifting anything remotely heavy though for a few weeks from what I remember. I remember feeling pretty decent right after but it's deceptive. Take the time off if you can. If you're at a desk job, you may be ok sooner.

[@johnbutler3141]

Before you go there make sure you at the strong levels of Vitamin D3, magnesium and potassium. Good luck been there.

[@frenchis19]

U had this done 15 years ago and they only had to burn 1 area: I didn't have any of these problems or medicine after wards:

[@noeleh72]

I've got a question. when you say skipped beets,did you have any pauses. my 18 year old son had an ablation in August, thought everything was good. now he having pauses as well as skips. hes afraid to go to sleep at night because of it😣

[@eduardsliepins9277]

noel pascoe hello. Im 18 as well as your son. And i had my procedure done a month ago. How is your son doing now? Im having the same thing, some extra beats and skips. Also being afraid to go to sleep at night and afraid that its going to come back. Ive red that the healing of the heart can cause this within the next 3 months so im hoping its just that. Good luck to your son!

[@jpmp7939]

Do you ever test for lam?? Most have lame that can case pots@@

[@wolfrh1]

man, have your magnesium level checked! I take a liquid ionic mg supplement that has really helped me with afib, pvc's, and occasional svt episodes. don't take nexium or Prilosec which depletes mg.

[@joewall8625]

I've been taking magnesium and feel better and perked up since my last afib episode 👍👌

[@christybates7334]

Thanks for sharing, Meds aren't working , cardio conversion worked for a week - drank a few drinks at a dinner party woke up in the morning back in Afib. Definitely alcohol is a trigger - weekend drinking only takes 2 drinks. Sucks. Having catheter ablation in August tired of the meds can't take break blockers on other stuff including Xarelto. My biggest fear is a stroke 99% of the time I don't even know I'm in Afib. It's sustained for the last 2 months post an emergency appendectomy. So moving forward with the procedure. Scared !!! I also am in Los Angeles have been treated at Cedars now seeing an Afib EP specialist. The change of lifestyle is hard but better than the alternative. For me it's the psychological "stuff" . I feel old !!! So while all my friends and I are in Mexico and at work events and they are partying it up having fun I'll be having a tonic water with a lime - ugh. Thanks again for your posts - they really help :)

[@Shylows]

I get horrible charlie cramps in my neck chest eyes omg one right after another.I inherited mine..my mom her mom her sisters..omg its horrible.My ablation dodnt work cause it wouldnt a fib on the table

[@Boomstick99]

So here I am two years later and, is it still working for you? I was diagnosed in 2016 and they are only just now suggesting this procedure. Also, did you have heart failure at the time?

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

Yes. Feeling great.

[@Lykan]

Hey Eddie, just curious...how are you doing now? It's been a bit since your second procedure.

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

feeling good.

[@pipedreams57]

Were you able to work during the recovery, or did you have to go off on disability?

[@EddieJohnsonActor]

about 5-7 days of downtime. No heavy lifting though for a few weeks.