What is a cardioversion?

[TracyAdmin]

If you have AF you may have been offered a cardioversion, but may be unsure of what to expect?

A cardioversion is a procedure to convert your heart from AF back into normal (sinus) rhythm. This is achieved by administering a rhythm control medication (antiarrhythmic drug) by mouth or through the veins, both of these methods can take some time to take effect.

However, a more efficient and quicker method is via the electric shock treatment, which at first sounds alarming but overall is usually the quickest and most successful treatment.

The most appropriate form of treatment will be decided and discussed between you and your consultant.

For further information, please visit the AF Association webpage; heartrhythmalliance.org/afa... or alternatively, download our 'Cardioversion of atrial fibrillation' booklet; api.heartrhythmalliance.org...

[Japaholic]

I wasn’t prepared for the only cardioversion I had, felt like being kicked by a horse. Thoroughly unpleasant experience.