Atrial Fibrillation Stops on Its Own

Q: After having atrial fibrillation (AF) for nine years, I woke up one morning and my heartbeat was normal. An EKG showed no problem, not even a skip. Does this happen very often? To me, it was a miracle.

A: What you describe is not common, though it unquestionably happens. Unfortunately, atrial fibrillation generally recurs unless the factors that first produced it are no longer present — for example, a narrowed heart valve is replaced by a prosthetic one, or hypertension that made the heart work harder is now under control. Another factor to consider is that having AF actually changes or “remodels” the atrial heart muscle into tissue more conducive to having AF. However, the reverse is true also.

Having a normal rhythm can help reverse the remodeling and deter future AF recurrences. You are most fortunate, and I hope the normal rhythm continues. Do let me know what happens.

Heartbeat

High BP in A.M.

My blood pressure is high in the morning. What causes this? When you are at rest in a warm bed, arteries dilate and blood pressure tends to be low. When you stand up, your body elevates blood pressure to be sure your brain is perfused so you don’t black out. Getting out of bed in a [...]

January 2, 2010 | Read more »

Calcium Deposit Controversy

I have a leaky mitral valve and calcium deposits in my heart. One surgeon said: “We leave calcium deposits alone.” Another one said: “We always remove them.” Both doctors are world-class. Why would they have different opinions? Both of your doctors could be right. It depends on where the calcium is, how much is there, and [...]

January 2, 2010 | Read more »

Walking Provokes Chest Pain

Q: I have shortness of breath and chest pain when walking up stairs or on streets with an incline. A cardiologist in the emergency room said my heart seemed fine. Any ideas? A: I am concerned about your symptoms during walking up a flight of stairs or on streets with an incline. At the very [...]

October 22, 2009 | Read more »

Burning Pain in Arms

Q: I used to have terrific burning pain in my arms when walking. Since having stents and open-heart surgery, the arm pain continues, but is less severe. What causes it? I’m scheduled for another stress test. A: Skeletal muscles in your arms and legs need oxygen and can produce pain if they do not get enough [...]

October 22, 2009 | Read more »