Guide To Treating And Preventing Ventricular Fibrillation

Anti-Arrhythmic Medication

In the emergency room, doctors treat ventricular fibrillation with several types of anti-arrhythmic medication. These medications include vasopressin and amiodarone, and are given to restore a normal heart rhythm after doctors have used an automatic defibrillator at least three times. For long-term prevention of additional episodes of ventricular fibrillation, doctors may recommend amiodarone for patients who cannot have an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator. Side effects of amiodarone include nausea, lack of coordination, tremors, fatigue, insomnia, and constipation. For most patients who have survived ventricular fibrillation or are at high risk of an episode, doctors prescribe beta blockers, which reduce blood pressure and help improve blood flow. Examples of commonly prescribed beta blockers include atenolol, nebivolol, and propranolol. Beta blockers can cause changes in cholesterol levels, shortness of breath, fatigue, cold hands and feet, and weight gain. Depression and sleeping problems have also been reported.

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Get Regular Exercise

Patients who have heart rhythm abnormalities and are at risk for ventricular fibrillation are advised to get regular exercise, as exercise helps strengthen the heart muscle and allows it to pump blood through the body more efficiently. Before beginning any exercise regimen, patients with heart conditions should have a physical examination to make sure they are healthy enough. In general, light exercises such as gentle yoga, slow swimming, tai chi, and walking are safe for cardiac patients. Doctors generally recommend patients try to exercise 150 minutes per week. While exercising, patients should stop immediately if they experience any difficulty breathing or have chest pain, and a doctor should be informed. Instead of exercising on their own, patients may want to consider joining a group exercise class for individuals with health concerns or heart problems. These classes provide safe exercise methods and modifications so all patients can feel comfortable participating.

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