CV LLS

Question 1

What is paroxysmal AF and how is this different to persistent AF and permanent AF?

Answer 1

Episodes come and go and usually stop within 48 hours without any treatment.
Persistent AF = each episode lasts for longer than 7 days or less when treated
Permanent = there all the time

Question 2

What is ‘pill in the pocket’ strategy and who is it suitable for and what two drugs are used?

Answer 2

Is a treatment option for patients who have infrequent episodes of symptomatic AF.
You take a single dose of an anti arrhythmic drug when you feel palpitations to convert the irregular heart beat back to normal
Class IC sodium channel blockers anti-arrhythmic drugs (flecainide and propafenone)