Atrial fibrillation, also known as AFib or AF, is a condition that makes the heart beat rapidly. This disease can lead to stroke, blood clots, heart complications and even heart failure. Atrial fibrillation occurs when the atria (two chambers) of your heart experiences confusing electrical signals. It is believed that approximately 2.7 million people in the country are victims of atrial fibrillation. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of this serious condition.

First, let us understand its symptoms. In some cases, a patient may be completely unaware about the heart condition unless he/she undergoes a physical examination.

Common symptoms are as follows.

• Palpitations
• breathlessness
• Weakness
• Chest pain
• Confusion
• Less energy to exercise
• Fatigue
• Dizziness

Treatment for atrial fibrillation
The treatment for atrial fibrillation will depend on factors such as:

• Time period since you had the condition
• Contributing factors (causes) of atrial fibrillation
• Type of symptoms

In general, the objectives of the treatment of atrial fibrillation are to prevent blood clots, control the heart rate and decrease the risk of strokes. The treatment can be achieved by medications, surgical procedures or non-surgical procedures.

Medications
Medications are often prescribed to help treat and prevent blood clot which otherwise may lead to stroke. These medications may include heart rate controllers, rhythm controllers, and blood thinners.

• Medications to prevent blood clot
• Warfarin
• Rivaroxaban, Dabigatran, Apixaban, and Edoxaban (FDA approved anticoagulants)
• Aspirin (in rare cases)
• Heart rate controllers
• Atenolol
• Metoprolol
• Propranolol
• Bisoprolol
• Timolol
• Diltiazem
• Digoxin
• Heart rhythm controllers
• Flecainide
• Propafenone
• Quinidine
• Amiodarone
• Sotalol
• Dofetilide

Surgical procedures
This may involve the use of pacemakers or open-heart maze procedures. Generally, the type of surgical procedure conducted for atrial fibrillation depends on the part of the area where electrical misfiring has started. This will also be based on how frequently you face the problem. Ablation procedures tend to be less invasive and they are generally performed at a hospital. It takes two hours where the surgeon would insert a catheter via the groin or neck. This goes to the upper and lower chambers of your heart.

Non-surgical procedures
These procedures may include Electrical cardioversion, Radiofrequency ablation or catheter ablation. It is generally considered safer and therefore is chosen by many patients.

Lifestyle changes
Your doctor may recommend certain lifestyle changes to help improve the overall condition of your heart. Regular exercise, no smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and reducing stress are some of the changes one should make.

Atrial fibrillation treatment is the most appropriate way to reduce the symptoms of the condition. It will help you understand the root cause of the problem and then treat it accordingly. As most patients remain unaware of the condition, it is best to consult a doctor before you seek any treatment for atrial fibrillation.