Three Major Treatment Principles for Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common type of arrhythmia. Its three major treatment principles are as follows:

1. Control ventricular rate: During AF episodes, the rapid and irregular atrial fibrillation can cause accelerated ventricular response, thereby interfering with the heart's effective pumping function. Medications such as beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, or digoxin can be used. These medications help control the ventricular rate within an appropriate range, thus alleviating symptoms caused by AF, such as palpitations and shortness of breath.

2. Restore sinus rhythm: This can be achieved through medications such as amiodarone and propafenone, or via electrical cardioversion. Medication-based rhythm control must be conducted under a physician's guidance, while electrical cardioversion involves delivering an external electrical shock to restore the heart rhythm to normal.

3. Prevent thromboembolism: Patients with AF are prone to blood stasis and clot formation in the atria due to rapid and irregular atrial contractions. These clots may travel through the bloodstream to the brain or other vital organs, causing serious consequences such as stroke or limb paralysis. Anticoagulant therapy is required, and common anticoagulant medications include warfarin sodium tablets and rivaroxaban tablets.