What Action Can Help Terminate Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a type of supraventricular arrhythmia characterized by rapid and irregular heartbeats. In some cases, such as when AFib is accompanied by paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT), stimulating the patient's throat to induce nausea or vomiting may help terminate the arrhythmia. This maneuver, known as the vagal maneuver, can sometimes restore normal heart rhythm by activating the vagus nerve, which helps regulate heart rate.

Understanding Atrial Fibrillation

However, in most cases of atrial fibrillation, no simple physical action can reliably stop the episode. AFib is identified on an electrocardiogram (ECG) by the presence of small, rapid oscillations on the baseline—known as fibrillatory waves or F waves. These waves occur at a frequency of 300–600 beats per minute, while the ventricular response typically ranges between 100–160 beats per minute, resulting in an irregular and often rapid heartbeat.

Complications in Patients with Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome

In patients with Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome, the situation can be more severe. Due to the presence of an accessory electrical pathway, the ventricular rate during AFib can exceed 250 beats per minute. This rapid conduction can lead to hemodynamic instability and even progress to ventricular fibrillation, making prompt medical intervention crucial.

Common Risk Factors and Associated Conditions

Most individuals diagnosed with atrial fibrillation have underlying cardiovascular conditions. Hypertension is a leading contributor, often leading to left ventricular hypertrophy. Structural or functional heart diseases are also commonly associated with AFib. These include coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease—particularly involving the mitral valve—hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, dilated cardiomyopathy, and hyperthyroidism.

Managing atrial fibrillation typically involves a combination of medications, lifestyle modifications, and in some cases, procedures such as cardioversion or catheter ablation. It's important for patients to work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses both the arrhythmia and any underlying conditions contributing to its development.