Atrial Fibrillation Treatment in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) falls under the category of "palpitation disorders" in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) internal medicine. Treatment strategies and herbal prescriptions vary depending on the specific pattern differentiation observed in each patient. A holistic approach is essential, focusing on restoring internal balance and supporting the body's natural healing mechanisms.

Common TCM Pattern Differentiations and Treatments for Atrial Fibrillation

1. Heart Qi Deficiency Pattern

Patients with heart Qi deficiency often experience palpitations accompanied by dizziness, fatigue, and increased symptoms after physical activity. The therapeutic principle involves replenishing heart Qi. A commonly used formula is Wu Wei Zi Tang, which may include ingredients like ginseng, astragalus, licorice, schisandra, and dwarf lilyturf root. These herbs work together to strengthen cardiac function and improve energy levels.

2. Heart Yin Deficiency Pattern

This pattern typically presents with palpitations, irritability, insomnia, dry mouth, five-palm heat (heat in the palms, soles, and chest), and night sweats. Treatment focuses on nourishing Heart Yin and calming the spirit. Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan or Cinnabar Spirit Calming Pills are often prescribed with modifications to restore Yin balance and promote restful sleep.

3. Heart-Spleen Deficiency Pattern

Individuals may experience palpitations along with dizziness, vertigo, pale complexion, abdominal distension, and poor appetite. The treatment approach involves strengthening the spleen and nourishing the heart to replenish Qi and blood. Gui Pi Tang is a foundational formula used in such cases, tailored to each patient's specific symptoms.

4. Liver-Kidney Yin Deficiency Pattern

This condition often features palpitations with five-palm heat, dizziness, tinnitus, irritability, and anger outbursts. The treatment emphasizes nourishing Liver and Kidney Yin to calm the heart and stabilize emotions. A combination of Yi Guan Jian and Suan Zao Ren Tang may be used to achieve this effect.

5. Spleen-Kidney Yang Deficiency Pattern

Symptoms include palpitations, shortness of breath, loose stools, abdominal distension, and poor appetite. The therapeutic goal is to warm and strengthen the Spleen and Kidney while calming the heart and reducing fluid retention. Formulas like Li Zhong Tang and Zhen Wu Tang are commonly employed for this purpose.

6. Heart Deficiency with Timidity Pattern

This pattern manifests as palpitations, easy startling, insomnia with frequent awakenings, nightmares, or sensitivity to loud noises. Treatment involves strengthening the heart and calming the spirit. Ping Bu Zhen Xin Dan is often used to address these symptoms effectively.

7. Phlegm-Dampness Obstruction Pattern

In this case, treatment focuses on regulating Qi and resolving phlegm to calm the heart. Dao Tan Tang is a commonly used formula containing herbs like pinellia, tangerine peel, poria, and licorice, which help clear phlegm and restore normal cardiac rhythm.

8. Blood Stasis Pattern

Patients may experience palpitations along with chest tightness, chest pain, or observe purplish discoloration, spots, or patches on the tongue. The treatment strategy involves promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis. Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang, containing ingredients like peach seed, angelica, rehmannia, safflower, and chuanxiong, is frequently prescribed for this condition.

Integrating TCM with Modern Medicine

While Traditional Chinese Medicine offers valuable approaches to managing atrial fibrillation, it's important to complement these with modern medical treatments. Combining TCM with Western medicine can provide a more comprehensive strategy for preventing AFib recurrence and reducing the risk of complications such as stroke and heart failure.