I received a call from the cardiologist this morning. The heart monitor recorded an event two days ago in the evening. The doctor told me that the event included both atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter. So, it’s official. I have a diagnosis. Not something I wanted, but it’s better to know.
I’d actually never heard the term atrial flutter before. According to the American Heart Association1, “Atrial flutter, like atrial fibrillation, is a rhythmic disturbance of the heart (arrhythmia).” Apparently, during “atrial flutter, the atrium of the heart beat 250 to 350 times per minute.” That’s compared to a normal heart rate of 60 to 100 beats per minute.
The doctor has more tests that were already scheduled, including a heart CT, a stress test, and an electrocardiogram. He is also referring me to an electrophysiologist2. I’d never heard of that specialty before. It’s a sub-specialty in cardiology, specifically regarding the electrical system of the heart. I don’t know when I will see that doctor. The office will call me to schedule an appointment.
So, the journey continues. I have an official diagnosis. I’m not imagining or faking, and I’m not a hypochondriac. And yes, there are those in my life who have accused me of all of those at various times.
- What is Atrial Flutter? https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/atrial-fibrillation/what-is-atrial-fibrillation-afib-or-af/atrial-flutter ↩︎
- What is an electrophysiologist? https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24039-electrophysiologist ↩︎
An Aging Trans Woman 
You are not a hypochondriac, you are a person who does their research about their symptoms and responds accordingly. You are not over reacting because, as you say, hormone therapy increases other risks. Better safe and informed than ignorant and dead. 🥰
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Thank you Heather. Yes, I know it’s nonsense, but it still hurts when it comes from someone you consider a friend.
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It’s good to know, and to know what it is, and to develop a treatment plan. I wish it would have been a simpler thing, or not a thing to begin with. But knowing helps so much. I’m sorry about your diagnosis, but it’s good you’ve found out.
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Thank you Ali. Yeah, I’d rather know. 🫂
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