how do you control atrial fibrillation?

Answer 1

you'll be placed on coumadin to prevent clot formation.

Rate control is used to control the AV node, or the impulses from the atrium into the ventricles. So essentially in AF your atrium are beating 200-300 times per minute. Meds slow the conduction through the av node, which is between the atrium and ventricles. Medications control the ventricular rate, nothing to do with the atrial rate.

Technology has provided new treatments based on your cause of atrial fib. If your old, probably nothing they can do but as stated above. If your young, then possible ablation therapy. Naturally a cardiologist specializing in electrophysiology would be best to consult on your situation.

Answer 2

Doctors have many ways of controlling Atrial Fib. My way, for the past twenty years, has been to ingest plenty of potassium (bananas and orange juice) and nuts like Walnuts Caschews and Almonds. I take a daily multivitamin like centrum silver and a herb called "Hawthorne Extract" and make sure my Thyroid levels are correct. Alcoholic drinks as well as sulfides in foods can exacerbate Atrial Fib.

Answer 3

I also avoid cold decongestants and limit coffee. I also take toprol which may help--but it is not prescribed for that--there is a drug called corderone which was prescribed while in hospital but it can have bad side effects if used too long, I have been told. I am not a doctor but have had a fib. The last time it self corrected.