5 Effective Treatments for Atrial Fibrillation (AF)

Atrial fibrillation (AF) describes an irregular heart rhythm. Many people experience a rapid heartbeat because of the condition and may be at greater risk of more serious heart issues.

At Chinatown Cardiology, with four New York City locations, our experienced cardiologists use advanced diagnostic technologies to identify what’s causing your atrial fibrillation symptoms. We also work closely with you to create a treatment plan to protect your long-term heart health.

What to know about atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation occurs when the upper chambers (atria) of your heart beat out of sync with the lower chambers (ventricles).

Many people have atrial fibrillation, but not everyone experiences symptoms; you can have the condition without knowing it.

If you do have symptoms, they can include:

Chest pain
Heart palpitations
Pounding heartbeat
Persistent weakness
Shortness of breath
Lightheadedness or dizziness

These symptoms can come and go or be ongoing. Without treatment, atrial fibrillation can increase your risk for heart failure, blood clots, and stroke.

Causes of atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation results from structural issues in your heart that you’re born with or from underlying medical problems.

Common causes of atrial fibrillation include:

Heart attack
Sleep apnea
High blood pressure (hypertension)
Heart valve dysfunction
Coronary artery disease
Thyroid disease

You can also develop atrial fibrillation if you use certain medications, tobacco, alcohol, or caffeine.

Your risk for atrial fibrillation increases with age, especially if you have a family history of AF. You’re also more likely to develop a rapid heartbeat because of weight challenges.

5 treatments options to address atrial fibrillation

Our providers at Chinatown Cardiology can evaluate your heart health and function with in-office tests like an electrocardiogram (EKG), echocardiogram, or stress test. We may also have you wear a Holter monitor that records your heart’s activity in real time.

Based on the results of your diagnostic testing, we customize a treatment plan to regulate your heart’s rhythm and prevent blood clots that can lead to stroke.

Your treatment plan may include:

1. Lifestyle changes

Our team can recommend exercises that strengthen your heart. In addition to daily exercise, you may also need to modify your diet to include more heart-healthy, low-salt, and low-fat foods.

If you smoke, we can provide smoking cessation resources to help you quit for good.

2. Weight loss

If you’re overweight or obese, we can recommend strategies to help you shed weight safely and manage your atrial fibrillation symptoms more effectively.

3. Medications

If lifestyle and diet changes aren’t enough to regulate your heartbeat, you may need to take beta blockers, blood thinners, or other medications.

4. Cardioversion therapy

Cardioversion therapy uses electrical shocks to reset your heart rhythm. We deliver the shocks using patches or paddles placed over your chest. Cardioversion is sometimes performed using medications to stabilize your heartbeat.

5. Cardiac ablation

Cardiac ablation uses radiofrequency heat energy or extreme cold to create scars in the tissues of your heart. The scars block chaotic electrical signals to restore a healthy heartbeat.

If you’re concerned about frequent heart palpitations, persistent dizziness, or other atrial fibrillation symptoms, schedule a diagnostic evaluation today at a Chinatown Cardiology location in Manhattan, Queens, or Brooklyn. Book online or call the office nearest you.