Post SVT Ablation

Hi Everyone,

I am new to this site. I am 56 years old and have experienced episodes of SVT since I was 13 years old. In the beginning, I would go very long periods of time without an episode, sometimes once or twice a year. I was able to stop them using vagal maneuvers in a fairly short time. When I was in my 30's I was having longer episodes, so my cardiologist put me on 25 mg. of atenolol daily. Because I had pretty low blood pressure, that was the maximum dosage I could take. About 5 years ago, the episodes became more frequent. My cardiologist then switched my medication to metoprolol to see if that worked better. The episodes still came, but I was able to control them with the maneuvers. Starting about a year and a half ago, my episodes started to come very frequently. I was having episodes weekly or every other week. They lasted longer and were definitely more difficult to stop. In the past 6 months I have gotten 3 really bad attacks that put me in the E.R. One of them happened while I was driving. I get a weird tingling sensation in my arms and legs, and feel as if I am going to pass out. I travel quite often for work and would not take any flight that was longer than 1.5 hours because of the svt. I realized that it was really taking control of my life and happiness. I made an appointment to see an electrophysiologist and spoke to him about an ablation. I scheduled the procedure for February of 2020. A few days after that visit, I had an svt that lasted 90 minutes, and had to be taken by ambulance to the E.R. None of the maneuvers worked, so they had to give me adenosine. I am sure some of you know how awful that drug is! Because of that, I moved my date for my ablation up. I had my procedure yesterday. I was frightened, panic stricken and just a nervous wreck. Of course you think the worst is going to happen. The team at the hospital was amazing, and my electrophysiologist is the best! I am lucky to live in Boston with some of the best hospitals in the world. I had my procedure at Brigham and Women's Hospital with Dr. David Martin. I can't say enough about what a positive experience it was. My SVT was very cooperative and they were able to start it almost immediately. They ablated in two areas. When they finish, they race your heart again to see if it will go into svt. Nothing! They got it!! I asked for minimal sedation (I know you all probably think I am crazy, but I like to be awake and know what's going on!) I remember everything, but was very relaxed. The team told me everything that was happening so there were no surprises. My procedure took under 2 hours, and I went home about 4 hours later. Last night I slept like a baby and woke up feeling great! I do have minimal discomfort in my groin where the catheters were, but I can't even call it pain. If you are on the fence, DO IT! I woke up for the first time in two years not worrying about having an episode. I am happy to answer any questions you have. Peace and health to all of you!

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