Atrial Fibrillation and Daily Life

Stress

Stressful situations can trigger an episode of atrial fibrillation or make your atrial fibrillation worse.

Try to lower the amount of stress at work or with family.

Try meditation and other relaxation techniques when stress is unavoidable.

Work

Most people with atrial fibrillation can continue working.

Avoid strenuous activity and extremely stressful situations at work.

Sexual activity

Most people with atrial fibrillation can lead normal sex lives as long as they can exercise and be active without having symptoms.

Let your doctor know if you experience symptoms of atrial fibrillation during sex.

Exercise

Intense exercise may trigger your arrhythmia or make your symptoms worse.

Call your doctor to report any symptoms. And avoid strenuous exercise if it causes symptoms.

Driving

You can drive unless your doctor advises against it.

Pull over and call your doctor if you start to feel symptoms or become lightheaded while operating a motor vehicle or other machinery.

Travel

Before each trip, talk with your doctor about your travel plans. He or she may be able to refer you to a doctor in the area that you will be visiting.

Bring the name and phone number of your doctor, in case your arrhythmia comes back and you need medical attention. Also, make sure to bring extra medicine.