You may even lose consciousness. Atrial fibrillation is not a life threatening heart rhythm. In fact, as people get older, their chances of going into this rhythm are quite high. Many people stay in this rhythm for years without suffering any ill effects from it. Treatment You will need to stop smoking and decrease the amounts of alcohol and caffeine you drink.
Medications are often helpful in returning the heart to a normal rhythm.
If the atrial fibrillation continues, you will need to take medications to prevent the heart from beating too quickly. You may also be put on a blood thinner in order to prevent clots from forming in the heart. Your doctor may also suggest cardioversion, a procedure to attempt to return the heart to a normal rhythm. Please refer to the section on cardioversion for further information. Use of our site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Use .