Cardioversion for atrial fibrillation - questions about effectiveness, etc. [View all]
Cardioversion has been recommended for my recently diagnosed atrial fibrillation.
My a-fib is of the type that the heart beats slower, as opposed to those who have faster beats, palpitations, etc.
I wouldn't have known I had the condition, although I have been more tired and with less energy for about 6 months.
I also have increased swelling of ankles and legs, which leads to fluid in the chest cavity, a precursor to congestive heart failure.
ECG revealed the condition; heart echo shows my heart has not been altered/damaged at this time.
I am past 80, live alone in a one-floor house and mostly independent, though I sure appreciate any and all assistance from two nearby children.
I have mixed feelings about cardioversion, as I hear many comments that it doesn't work or doesn't work very long if it works initially.
Questions - does it work equally well for curing slow beat as it does for faster beats?
How does one know, except for ECG, that heart is still in rhythm?
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