Atrial fibrillation Q&As
Published by Bupa's health information team, March 2009.
Answers to questions about atrial fibrillation
This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.
- Will I get any side-effects from my medicine?
- Are palpitations always caused by an arrhythmia?
- Why might I need to have more than one catheter ablation?
- Can I still exercise if I have atrial fibrillation?
Will I get any side-effects from my medicine?
All of the medicines used for atrial fibrillation have the potential to cause side-effects. Your GP or cardiologist should discuss these with you before you start any treatment, so you can weigh up the risks and benefits of taking the medicine.
Explanation
- Although anticoagulants are very effective, they may thin your blood too much, causing you to bleed more than usual if you injure yourself.
- Amiodarone, a commonly used anti-arrhythmic, carries a small risk of causing problems in the lungs, eyes, thyroid and other organs. It can also make you more sensitive to sunlight. Because of this, you will need six-monthly checks with your GP if you are taking this drug.
- Beta-blockers can be associated with tiredness, coldness in your hands and feet, and disturbed sleep.
- Calcium-channel blockers can cause constipation, low blood pressure and can trigger heart failure.
You should discuss any side-effects you experience with your GP.
Sources
- Palpitation. British Heart Foundation, January 2005, Health information series number 14. www.bhf.org.uk
- Atrial fibrillation. Arrhythmia Alliance. www.heartrhythmcharity.org.uk, accessed 9 April 2008
- British National Formulary (BNF), BMJ Publishing Group, 2007, 55
Are palpitations always caused by an arrhythmia?
No. In addition to atrial fibrillation and other types of arrhythmia, there are many other causes of palpitations (where you become aware of your heart beating more rapidly or more forcefully).
Explanation
Most people experience palpitations at some time - including people without heart disease. While they can be unpleasant and distressing, these palpitations are normally harmless and go away on their own. Fear, anger, stress, physical activity, fever, stomach upsets, drinking alcohol or caffeine, tobacco and some medicines - including diet pills and cold medicines - may all cause palpitations.
If your palpitations don't seem to have an obvious trigger, or are associated with other symptoms such as dizziness or chest pain, you should see your GP.
Sources
- Palpitation. British Heart Foundation, January 2005, Health information series number 14. www.bhf.org.uk
Why might I need to have more than one catheter ablation?
Sometimes, catheter ablation isn't successful, and you may need to have a repeat procedure.
Explanation
Catheter ablation can cure atrial fibrillation in most people. However, some people may need more than one procedure for it to work. It is also possible that the procedure may not completely cure your atrial fibrillation, but just reduce the number and duration of any symptoms you have.
The success of this procedure depends on the type of atrial fibrillation you have, the length of time you have had it, whether or not you have any other heart disease, and the experience and the equipment available at the hospital where you have the procedure.
Sources
- Catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation. Arrhythmia Alliance. www.heartrhythmcharity.org.uk, accessed 23 January 2008
- Palpitation. British Heart Foundation, January 2005, Health information series number 14. www.bhf.org.uk
Can I still exercise if I have atrial fibrillation?
Exercise is generally encouraged, but you will need to discuss this with your cardiologist as it will depend on your individual circumstances.
Explanation
Generally speaking, exercise is good for the heart and is something that is normally encouraged. However, atrial fibrillation may occasionally be triggered by exercise.
Once your GP or cardiologist has got your atrial fibrillation under control with appropriate treatment, exercise will usually be safe. You may need to have an exercise ECG first, to check how much you are able to cope with. In this procedure, a recording of your heartbeat is taken while you are exercising on a treadmill or exercise bike.
If you have heart disease, it is sensible to take exercise in moderation. Take advice from your cardiologist, GP or exercise trainer. You may be advised to work to a pulse rate of 50 to 75 percent of the maximum predicted for your age.
Related topics
This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
Publication date: March 2009
Atrial fibrillation factsheet
Visit the atrial fibrillation health factsheet for more information.
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