![]() To reduce the risk of stroke or damage to other organs caused by blood clots, a doctor may prescribe a blood-thinning medication (anticoagulant). ![]() Because they tend to have more side effects than drugs that control the heart rate, anti-arrhythmics tend to be used more sparingly. These drugs are used to maintain a normal heart rhythm, not just to control the heart rate. Most people need additional or alternative medications, such as calcium channel blockers or beta blockers. This medication may control the heart rate at rest, but not as well during activity. These medicines control the heart rate but may need to be avoided by those who have heart failure or low blood pressure. These medications can help slow the heart rate at rest and during activity. Medications used to treat atrial fibrillation include: Medications are also prescribed to prevent blood clots, a dangerous complication of A-fib. You may be prescribed medications to control how fast your heart beats and restore it to a normal rate. If A-fib isn't well controlled, it may lead to other complications, including strokes and heart failure. It's important to follow your atrial fibrillation treatment plan. Together, you and your doctors will discuss the best treatment option for you. Therapy to reset the heart rhythm (cardioversion).Prevent blood clots that can lead to strokeĪtrial fibrillation treatment may involve:.Treatment for atrial fibrillation depends on how long you've had A-fib, your symptoms and the underlying cause of the heartbeat problem. X-ray images help a doctor see the condition of the lungs and heart. Also called exercise testing, stress testing involves running tests on the heart while exercising on a treadmill or stationary bike. This noninvasive test uses sound waves to create images of the heart's size, structure and motion. Some devices automatically record when an irregular heart rhythm is detected. You generally push a button when you feel symptoms. It's worn longer than a Holter monitor, typically 30 days. This device is similar to a Holter monitor, but it records only at certain times for a few minutes at a time. It records the heart's activity continuously for 24 hours or longer. This small, portable ECG device is carried in a pocket or worn on a belt or shoulder strap during regular daily activities. These help a doctor rule out thyroid problems or detect other substances in the blood that may lead to A-fib. An ECG is the main test for diagnosing atrial fibrillation. An ECG can show if the heart is beating too fast, too slow or not at all. Wires connect the electrodes to a computer, which displays the test results. Sticky patches (electrodes) are placed on the chest and sometimes the arms and legs. This quick and painless test measures the electrical activity of the heart.
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