Understanding the standard treatments and the treatment options of atrial fibrillation

brillation (AF), the most common cardiac arrhythmia, is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality due to the consequences of thromboembolic events. Framingham data suggest that patients with AF have a 1.5-2 fold increase in mortality rate when compared with the general population [1]. Th e overall objectives of treatment for AF include the prevention of complications, such as stroke, and maintaining the patient’s functional ability and quality of life. Since AF encourages structural, functional and electrophisiologic changes of the left atrium [2], understanding the treatments for AF is critical for achieving these important objectives. Treatment of AF is complex and depends on whether the patient is currently experiencing symptoms, how long the patient has been in AF, the overall health of the patient, co-morbidities, and the size and function of the heart’s chambers. General treatment options include pharmacological therapy, medical procedures, and lifestyle changes. Th e goals of treating AF include: