US Bodybuilder Undergoes Rare Heart Surgery After Drinking Cold Water
Franklin Aribeana’s Experience Sheds Light on a Life-Threatening Condition
Afib denotes a condition characterized by irregular heartbeats.
A bodybuilder’s harrowing experience serves as a stark reminder of the terrifying consequences that can occur from seemingly harmless activities. Franklin Aribeana, a Houston resident, has astonished the medical community after almost losing his life due to a drink of cold water.
Mr. Aribeana had a history of recurrent hospitalizations over 15 years, totaling more than 20 visits, all of which was finally attributed to his heart condition and the unexpected catalyst. It all began abruptly when he fainted at the age of 18, leading him on a journey of self-discovery and the subsequent realization of the need for heart surgery, as reported by ABC News.
A Rare Gene Mutation Leading to Atrial Fibrillation (Afib)
“As I’m drinking the water, probably the most noticeable thud in my chest,” recalls Franklin Aribeana, recounting the alarming incident to ABC. “I’d never experienced it before.”
On that fateful day, Mr. Aribeana lost consciousness, causing him to be promptly rushed to the hospital. After genetic testing, it was revealed that he carried a rare gene mutation predisposing him to atrial fibrillation, commonly referred to as Afib.
Afib is a condition characterized by irregular heartbeats, and in Mr. Aribeana’s case, it was magnified by the stimulation of his vagus nerve, located at the rear of the throat, upon contact with cold water. The vagus nerve, extending from the brain to the chest, is responsible for the regulation of heartbeats.
A Medical Rarity and the Importance of Symptom Awareness
Dr. Khashayar Hematpour, Mr. Aribeana’s physician, highlighted the extraordinary nature of the symptoms presented. Typical indicators of this condition include sudden fatigue, chest discomfort, and shortness of breath. Aribeana’s case, however, was marked by the potential dangers of colder temperatures.
“Pay attention to your symptoms,” stresses Dr. Hematpour, urging individuals to be more mindful of their well-being.
Empowering Others with Knowledge and Personal Experience
Since his recovery, Franklin Aribeana has dedicated himself to spreading awareness about this unique condition. Recognizing that subtle symptoms often go unnoticed, he emphasizes the importance of vigilance and listening to one’s body.
“Pay attention to seemingly minor changes, such as increased fatigue, shortness of breath, or even chest pain,” advises Dr. Hematpour.
Following the life-altering ablation procedure, which involved cauterizing the connection between the vagus nerve and the heart, Mr. Aribeana underwent a full recovery. Remarkably, he has not required any further hospitalizations, though he continues to rely on prescribed medication.
