Houston Man’s Near-Death Experience from Cold Water Triggers Rare Heart Condition
In a shocking turn of events, a Houston man’s near-death experience from drinking cold water has shed light on a rare heart condition that plagued him for over 15 years. Franklin Aribeana, now 33, endured more than 20 hospital visits before finally connecting the dots and realizing that he needed heart surgery. This extraordinary case serves as a reminder to pay attention to our bodies and seek medical help when needed.
Aribeana’s ordeal began when he was just 18 years old. Out of the blue, he experienced a fainting spell while drinking water. “As I’m drinking the water, probably the most noticeable thud in my chest,” Aribeana recalled. This alarming incident marked the beginning of years filled with emergency room visits, medication, and uncertainty.
It wasn’t until one fateful day at the gym that Aribeana made a crucial discovery. While taking a sip of ice-cold water, he felt his heart begin to pound. “I’d take a gulp of cold water. As I’m settling back down, I feel the double thud,” he explained. This revelation prompted him to seek genetic testing, which revealed that Aribeana, his sister, and his father all had a gene mutation that could trigger atrial fibrillation (Afib) – a condition characterized by an irregular heartbeat.
Doctors theorized that Aribeana’s Afib could be triggered when cold water touched the vagus nerve in the back of his throat. The vagus nerve, which runs from the brain to the chest, is responsible for regulating the heartbeat. Dr. Khashayar Hematpour, Aribeana’s physician, emphasized the importance of paying attention to symptoms. He noted that Aribeana’s case is rare, as are his exaggerated symptoms, which contributed to his early diagnosis.
While some individuals with Afib may experience subtle symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, or chest pain, Aribeana’s condition presented itself more dramatically. Armed with this knowledge, Aribeana underwent an ablation surgery to cauterize the connection between the vagus nerve and his heart. The procedure was a success, and he made a full recovery. Since then, he has not required any hospital stays, although he continues to take medication as a precautionary measure.
Aribeana’s story serves as a powerful reminder to listen to our bodies and communicate any concerns to healthcare professionals. He urges others to be proactive in seeking medical attention when necessary. “If you feel something, don’t be afraid to tell your parents. Don’t be afraid to tell your physician next time you go in for an appointment, or if it feels emergency-related enough, don’t be afraid to go to the emergency room,” Aribeana advised.
This extraordinary case highlights the importance of understanding our bodies and advocating for our health. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of medical advancements in diagnosing and treating rare conditions. As we navigate the complexities of our own health journeys, let us remember Aribeana’s story and the importance of being proactive in seeking medical care when needed.
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Note: This article is based on the original news article published by KTRK-TV.
