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Rhythm Control--Putting you back into rhythm: In many instances the doctor will recommend that you be “cardioverted” or put back into a normal rhythm and attempt to keep you in a normal rhythm. There are two ways in which you can be converted to normal rhythm:
- Electrical Cardioversion: This treatment involves an electrical shock delivered to the heart through pads placed over the chest. The shock causes the electrical impulses to stop and reorganize back into normal rhythm. You receive sedation and anesthesia during this procedure to prevent you from being aware of the shock. Once your heart has been converted, you may be placed on a medication to keep your heart in normal rhythm (anti-arrhythmic medication ). (See also: Cardioversion preprocedure/ postprocedure instructions )
- Chemical Cardioversion: This treatment involves giving a medication either through a vein or in pill form to try to convert the heart rhythm back to normal. Because these medications are powerful, you will often be in the hospital during this treatment so that your heart can be monitored. (See also: Cardioversion preoprocedure/postprocedure instructions )
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