A Houston resident is raising awareness after nearly losing his life due to a sip of cold water, an unusual trigger that led to over 20 hospital visits spanning 15 years before he realized the need for heart surgery. Franklin Aribeana’s ordeal began unexpectedly at 18 when he experienced a fainting spell while drinking water.
“I felt the most noticeable thud in my chest as I was drinking the water. It was something I’d never experienced before,” Aribeana recalled.
His initial episode marked the beginning of numerous emergency room visits, medication regimens, and diagnostic puzzles.
“It’s a day I’ll never forget,” Aribeana reflected.
The realization dawned on him during a gym session when he felt his heart pound after sipping ice-cold water.
“After taking a gulp of cold water, I felt the double thud as I settled back down,” Aribeana described.
Genetic testing uncovered a gene mutation shared by Aribeana, his sister, and father, predisposing them to atrial fibrillation (Afib), an irregular heartbeat condition. Doctors suspected that Aribeana’s Afib could be triggered by cold water stimulating the vagus nerve in his throat.
The vagus nerve, running from the brain to the chest, regulates heart rhythm.
“Pay attention to your symptoms,” advised Dr. Khashayar Hematpour, Aribeana’s physician.
Aribeana’s case is unusual due to his pronounced symptoms, which facilitated early diagnosis and intervention.
“Subtle symptoms, like feeling more tired than usual or experiencing chest pain, may go unnoticed,” Hematpour explained.
Ablation surgery, which severed the connection between Aribeana’s vagus nerve and heart, led to his complete recovery, with no hospital stays since, although he continues medication. Aribeana’s message emphasizes the importance of heeding one’s body signals and promptly seeking medical attention when necessary.
“If you feel something, don’t hesitate to inform your parents or your physician during your next appointment, or if it’s urgent, don’t hesitate to go to the emergency room,” Aribeana urged.
