Rhythm restoration important for some with atrial fibrillation
Although controlling the heart’s rate is a good first step for treating atrial fibrillation, some people benefit from restoring a normal rhythm.
What to do when atrial fibrillation sets the upper chambers of the heart aquiver has vexed doctors for years. They traditionally focused on restoring the normal, steady rhythm known as sinus rhythm. That’s a logical approach — after all, it’s the tempo of a healthy heart. Another approach involves allowing the atria to continue contracting erratically and instead controlling the beat of the ventricles, the heart’s lower chambers.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
