Question Title: Can atrial fibrillation get worse?

Previously posted as 39 year old female with heart failure, atrial fibrillation,
previous stroke and pacemaker. Meds taken are : coumadin, monopril, K-Dur,
Slo-Mag, lasix, coreg, lanoxin and baby aspirin. My concern now is my
lack of sleep; everytime I roll to my left side during the night, I wake
up immediatley with my heart pounding extemely hard. Could this be the
a-fib kicking up? Also, for several weeks, I have been awaken with
SEVERE leg cramps in my right thigh and calf. Can any of my meds or
conditions cause these? These happen wether I am physically active on
these days or not. I have an appointment with the cardio doc in 8 days.
I would like to know if these symptons should be mentioned in my visit.
Thanks>

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Dear Lisa,
ANY NEW SYMPTOMS SHOULD BE MENTIONED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE IF NOT ON THE NEXT VISIT TO THE PHYSICIAN,
ESPECIALLY IN SOMEOME SUCH AS YOU WHO IS ON MULTIPLE MEDICATIONS AND BATTLEING MORE THAN ONE DISEASE
PROCESS.
A very detailed history and possibly a holter monitor may be necessary to check
your rhythm at night when you feel your heart pounding, if only to make sure it is
not a.fi. episodes.
The leg cramps can be a side effect of a medication or even due to electrolyte
abnormalities from the medications you are taking. Good Luck and ask these
questions on your next vist.
Information provided in the heart forum is intended for general medical informational
purposes only, actual diagnosis and treatment can only be made by your physician(s).

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