How can I manage unexpected atrial fibrillation episodes?

Question

Hi doctor,

Is there anybody who has ever had episodes of AFib that just come unexpectedly? I am 57 years old, and whenever I have it, I just do not know whether to go to the ER or not. It sometimes goes away by itself, but it scares me to death every time it happens.

Is there anything you could recommend to help avoid it without going to the hospital?

Thanks.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Here I am going to give some information about atrial fibrillation (AFib). Many people suffer from sudden episodes that have no reason at all. Some get over the episode after a few hours, but there are episodes that persist for a long time.

If you are already diagnosed with AFib, and your cardiologist tells you that you can safely observe your brief episodes at home, then you do not need to visit the emergency room every time you have an episode. You should consult an urgent care center if your episode is associated with chest pain, syncope, shortness of breath, and your heartbeat is too fast, and you feel unwell.

Some measures that can help you to decrease the number of episodes are taking your prescribed medications regularly, keeping yourself well hydrated, avoiding alcohol and caffeine (if these factors are responsible for your episodes), sleeping properly, and avoiding stressful situations.

Another measure is seeing your cardiologist regularly to talk about changing your medicines and other treatments to reduce the episodes of AFib.

Hope the above information helps you.

Best Regards.