For management of an atrial fibrillation, daily medications often are prescribed that slow irregular heartbeat and prevent the atrial fibrillation from returning. Medline Plus notes that symptoms might begin or cease abruptly because an atrial fibrillation often starts and returns to normal on its own.Treatment for an atrial fibrillation depends on the severity of symptoms and cause of the fibrillation. In rare cases, they can be a symptom of a more serious heart condition, such as an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), that might require treatment. LIVESTRONG.com may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. A frequent cough induced by the arrhythmia can lead to shortness of breath. 2020 "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.org," "Mayo Clinic Healthy Living," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Lindsay Boyers is a holistic nutritionist with a Bachelor's degree in food and nutrition and a certificate in holistic nutrition consulting. They can occur when you're active or at rest.Palpitations that are infrequent and last only a few seconds usually don't need to be evaluated. Causes of palpitations may be inconsequential or serious, ranging from anxiety, fear, overexertion, caffeine or nicotine intake, emphysema, cancer, asthma or heart disease. In emergency situations, electrical shock or intravenous medications might be used to restore the heart's normal rhythm. LIVESTRONG.com may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Family history also plays a role in the risk of developing an atrial fibrillation.In addition to a flutter or cough sensation in the chest, other symptoms of an atrial fibrillation include heart palpitations, shortness of breath, confusion, dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting and fatigue. A flutter sensation in the chest is caused by abnormal electrical impulses. Most people who undergo a radiofrequency ablation will need a permanent pacemaker, according to Medline Plus.The abnormal rhythm of atrial fibrillation can cause blood to pool in the atria and form blood clots.
When medications are not effective or the condition has a high risk of causing serious complications, a procedure called a radiofrequency ablation might be done. Palpitations with coughing may indicate a more serious heart disorder, such as coronary heart disease or … In those with an atrial fibrillation, the electrical signals are chaotic and abnormally rapid. When the upper chambers beat too quickly, the lower chambers cannot remain in sync with them.