Fighting Atrial Fibrillation

By Stephen Hammill, M.D.

QUESTION: I had an episode of atrial fibrillation in 2004 and again in December 2005. Both were controlled in a few hours with medication. My doctor wants me to stay on medication. Is this necessary as a preventive? I'd prefer not to take medication the rest of my life.

ANSWER: Most people with atrial fibrillation, a condition where the heart races or beats out of sync, require lifelong medications to manage the condition and reduce associated health risks.

While atrial fibrillation isn't life-threatening, it poses serious health risks. People with atrial fibrillation are about five times more likely to have a stroke than those without the condition. High blood pressure, diabetes, a history of stroke or being over 70 make the stroke risk even higher. Atrial fibrillation can weaken the heart, leading to heart failure, a condition where your heart can't circulate enough blood to meet your body's need. Quality of life can suffer, with symptoms such as weakness, lightheadedness, shortness of breath, and chest pain.

The medications your doctor recommends will depend on your symptoms and situation. Warfarin (Coumadin), a blood-thinning medication, helps reduce the risk of stroke. Most people also require medications to slow the heart rate, such as digoxin (Lanoxin), a beta blocker or a calcium channel blocker.

Common anti-arrhythmic medications >