Atrial Fibrillation Treatment Singapore

Atrial fibrillation treatment involves different medical strategies that help manage an irregular heartbeat and support healthy heart function. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a condition where the upper chambers of the heart beat in a fast and uncoordinated way, instead of working together in a steady rhythm. This can reduce how well blood flows through the heart and may increase the risk of stroke. Treatment focuses on slowing the heart rate, restoring a normal rhythm, and preventing complications such as blood clots.

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Dr Adrian Mondry
Physician (FRG) | MD (HHU Düsseldorf) | MRCP (London) | IM Specialist (ÄKNo) | Hypertensiologist (DHL)
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Who Should Go for Atrial Fibrillation Treatment?

Treatment for atrial fibrillation may be recommended based on your symptoms, the pattern of your irregular heartbeat, and your overall risk of complications. Common reasons for treatment include:

  • Irregular heart rhythm

    Persistent or recurring AF that does not resolve on its own may require intervention to stabilise the heartbeat.

  • Noticeable symptoms

    When atrial fibrillation causes symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, or fatigue that interfere with daily life.

  • Stroke risk prevention

    AF increases the chance of blood clots forming in the heart, which can travel to the brain and cause a stroke. Treatment can help reduce this risk.

  • Rapid heart rate

    In some cases, the heart beats too quickly during AF episodes. If left unmanaged, this may strain the heart over time and affect how well it functions.

  • Frequent recurrences

    If you experience repeated episodes of AF that affect your quality of life or your ability to stay active, ongoing management may be recommended.

Benefits of Atrial Fibrillation Treatment

Atrial fibrillation treatment offers several advantages that can significantly improve your heart health and overall wellbeing.

Restored normal heart rhythm: Many patients experience a return to regular heart rhythm, which improves the heart’s ability to pump blood throughout the body. This can lead to better exercise tolerance and reduced symptoms.

Reduced stroke risk: Treatment helps prevent blood clots from forming in the heart chambers.

Better heart function: Controlling atrial fibrillation helps prevent the heart muscle from weakening over time, which is particularly beneficial for long-term heart health.

Types of Tests for Atrial Fibrillation

Accurate diagnosis and monitoring are essential for selecting the most appropriate treatment.

  • Electrocardiogram (ECG)

    Records the heart’s electrical activity to confirm the presence of atrial fibrillation and detect rhythm irregularities.

  • 24-hour Holter monitoring

    Tracks your heart rhythm over a day or longer to capture intermittent or silent atrial fibrillation episodes.

  • Echocardiogram

    Uses ultrasound imaging to assess heart structure and pumping function, and to detect blood clots or other abnormalities.

  • Blood tests

    Evaluate thyroid function, kidney health, and clotting risk—important factors in managing atrial fibrillation safely.

Treatment Options

Several treatment approaches are available for atrial fibrillation. Your internal medicine specialist will recommend the most appropriate strategy based on your symptoms, health history, and individual risk profile.

Medication therapy

Medications are often the first step in managing atrial fibrillation. These include:

  • Rate control medications to slow a fast heart rate
  • Rhythm control medications to help maintain a regular heartbeat
  • Blood thinners to reduce the risk of stroke by preventing clot formation

Electrical cardioversion

In selected cases, your doctor may recommend referral for a procedure that uses a brief electrical impulse to restore normal heart rhythm. This is typically done in a hospital setting under sedation.

Catheter ablation

For patients who do not respond well to medication or continue to have frequent symptoms, catheter ablation may be considered. Your internal medicine specialist will coordinate referrals with a cardiologist or heart rhythm specialist and continue supporting your care through follow-up and risk factor management.

Have you been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation but unsure of your treatment options?

Consult our accredited specialist for tailored AF management in Singapore.

Results Review and Follow-Up

Following your atrial fibrillation treatment, your specialist will review test results, track your heart rhythm response, and monitor for side effects or complications. This may include adjusting medications or planning additional interventions based on how well your symptoms are controlled.

Regular follow-up ensures that your treatment remains effective and safe, and that associated risk factors such as blood pressure or stroke risk are closely managed over time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can atrial fibrillation come back after treatment?

Yes, atrial fibrillation can return in some patients, particularly those with underlying heart conditions or risk factors. Your Internal Medicine and Hypertension Specialist will monitor your condition and discuss additional treatment options if needed.

How will treatment affect my blood pressure medication?

Your specialist may need to adjust your blood pressure medications after atrial fibrillation treatment, as some heart rhythm medications can also affect blood pressure. Regular monitoring ensures your blood pressure remains well-controlled throughout your treatment.

What activities should I avoid long-term after treatment?

Most patients can gradually return to their normal activities, including exercise, once fully recovered. Your doctor will provide specific guidance based on your treatment type and individual circumstances, but many people find they can be more active than before treatment.

Is it normal to still feel occasional irregular heartbeats after treatment?

Occasional extra heartbeats or brief irregular rhythms can be normal, even after successful treatment. However, you should contact your specialist if you experience prolonged episodes of irregular rhythm, chest pain, or significant breathlessness.

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Dr Adrian Mondry

Physician (FRG)|MD (HHU Düsseldorf)|Specialist for Internal Medicine (ÄKNo)|Hypertensiologist (DHL)|MRCP (London)

Dr. Mondry has over 30 years of experience as an internal medicine & hypertension specialist.

  • Previously a Senior Consultant in the Department of Medicine at the National University Hospital and Ng Teng Fong General Hospital, where he is currently a visiting consultant.
  • Hypertension Specialist accredited by the German Hypertension League (DHL)

  • Contributed to the latest Singapore ACE Clinical Guidance on “Hypertension – Tailoring the Management Plan to Optimise Blood Pressure Control” as a committee member.

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