Cardiac radiofrequency ablation scars tiny areas inside the heart to stop rhythm trouble. Most people go home the same or next day, but the heart and the groin entry site can grumble for days. Knowing what’s normal—and what’s not—keeps recovery smooth.
Chest soreness is typical. A mild, bruise-like ache can flare during deep breaths or when you lie flat; it usually fades in a week.
Groin or wrist ache matches. The puncture spot feels like a deep bruise; pain that grows means bleeding or clot.
Brief skips or extra beats are expected. Your heart may feel fluttery for days while the tissue heals; sustained racing, dizziness, or fainting is not.
Low-grade fever and night sweats can pop up for forty-eight hours; high fever or chills suggest infection.
Shortness of breath that’s new or worse can signal fluid around the heart or a clot in the lung.
Late alarms include a blue or cold hand/foot, black stool, or sudden weakness—clues a clot or bleed has traveled.
| Symptom | What You Feel | Quick Check |
|---|---|---|
| Chest | Bruise-like ache | Deep-breath test |
| Groin | Deep bruise | Growing vs stable |
| Rhythm | Brief skips ok | Sustained = call |
| Fever | Low-grade 48 h | High = call |
| Breath | New or worse | Talk test |
| Late | Blue limb, black stool | 911 immediately |