Treatment approach for atrial fibrillation: rate control or rhythm control?

Extract

• The treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF) is chosen individually for each patient taking into consideration the symptoms, co-existing illnesses, factors that predispose to atrial fibrillation and thromboembolic complications, the duration of the arrhythmia and the anticipated benefits and risks of the treatment. The choice of treatment may only be made after a careful assessment of the patient (table Examinations and investigations in AF. In most cases, the decision regarding the treatment approach may be taken by the primary care physician on the basis of the first-line investigations. Echocardio1).
• The elimination of factors that predispose to the arrhythmia or trigger it as well as the appropriate management of any underlying illnesses form an essential part in the management of atrial fibrillation regardless of the treatment approach chosen.

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Search terms

AF, Anticoagulants, Anticoagulation, Arrhythmia, Atrial fibrillation, Cardiology, ECG, Electric Countershock, Heart rate, I48*, Pulse rate, Rate control, Rhythm control, Transoesophageal echocardiogram, Ventricular rate, Warfarin