Triggers and practical precautions
- Alcohol: binge/heavy use is a common trigger; reduction often helps recurrence control.
- Caffeine: moderate intake is often tolerated; reduce if you notice reliable triggering.
- Sleep: treat sleep apnea if present; it materially affects atrial arrhythmia burden.
- Hydration and illness: dehydration, infection, and stress can precipitate episodes.
Exercise
- Light–moderate activity is usually beneficial once stable.
- Avoid high intensity exertion during uncontrolled flutter or immediately post‑procedure until cleared.
Follow‑up after cardioversion or ablation
- Common follow‑up: 4–12 weeks with ECG ± ambulatory monitoring.
- Report sustained palpitations, syncope, chest pain, or progressive breathlessness.
- Discuss long‑term AF surveillance and anticoagulation decisions with your clinician.