The first is the abnormal heart rate. Medications can usually control the heart rate in these patients. The second problem is potentially more serious. When the atria begin to quiver, blood in these chambers becomes stagnant and can clot. These clots can then break off and cause a stroke.
Some patients use aspirin instead.
Many times, atrial fibrillation can be converted to normal heart rhythm. First, a blood thinner must be taken for at least one month to avoid a stroke when normal rhythm is restored. Then medications can be used to try to return the heart to its normal rhythm. Often defibrillation, or an electric shock, is used to reset the heart's rhythm. Although this sounds drastic, it is routine and not dangerous.