I had a sucessful Ablation 3 years ago next month. In hospital at 6, prepped before 8, out and walking halls before noon and discarded before 5 feeling good. I'm drug free and haven't had a single Afib event since. My FitBit watch recorded my first then daily Afib events for just over a year to my Ablation. No other heart problems, either before or current. I researched Afib and was looking at Ablation before meeting with doctors. I knew i had Afib. If I could have a "do over" I'd go directly to an electrophysiologist and try to skip many of the other tests.
Read my story for details. Any questions?
April 6
What treatments are recommended for atrial fibrillation?
Treatment for AFib focuses on two main goals: controlling your heart rhythm and preventing blood clots. Your cardiologist will work with you to find the right approach based on your specific situation.
Medication Options
* Antiarrhythmics to help maintain normal Show Full Answer
What treatments are recommended for atrial fibrillation?
Treatment for AFib focuses on two main goals: controlling your heart rhythm and preventing blood clots. Your cardiologist will work with you to find the right approach based on your specific situation.
Medication Options:
* Antiarrhythmics to help maintain normal rhythm
* Beta-blockers to control heart rate
* Calcium channel blockers for rate control
* Blood thinners (anticoagulants) to reduce stroke risk
Keep in mind that some medications that work well for rhythm control may have side effects, so you'll want to discuss the pros and cons with your doctor.
Procedures and Surgical Options:
* Cardioversion uses electrical shocks or drugs to reset your heart rhythm
* Catheter ablation creates small scars in the heart to block abnormal signals
* Maze procedure (open-heart surgery) has an 80-90% success rate
* AV node ablation with pacemaker for high heart rates that don't respond to other treatments
* Left atrial appendage closure to prevent blood clots if you can't take blood thinners
Lifestyle Changes:
* Maintain a healthy weight
* Eat a nutritious diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
* Get 150-210 minutes of moderate exercise weekly
* Limit alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco
* Manage high blood pressure
The right treatment depends on your AFib type, how long you've had it, your age, and your overall health.
April 4
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