Ablation vs. Drug Treatment

Hi, i was diagnosed with Atrial Fib in 1993 and originally was treated with Norpace, Lanoxin, and coumadin, the a - fib has continued on and off for the 6 years that i have been medicated for the problem, three years ago i was changed from Norpace to Tambocor ( Flecainide ) and Metoprolol.  I am still experiencing periods of A fib and skipped beats, premature beats and dizziness, loss of breathe and fatigue. I am a 35 year old male,  not over weight, and in fair shape.  My doctor is suggesting Radio Frequency Ablation as an alternative to the drug treatments, which have not worked 100% so far to date.
What are your thoughts on the ablation vs. drugs?
If i choose to stay with the drug treatment, what are long term affects?
How does stress affect A -Fib?  I have what i consider a stressful job.
Thank You for any advice you may have.

[CCF CARDIO MD JMF]

Dear Joe,

Ablation for atrial fibrillation may be an option at experienced centers with a 90% cure rate.  It sounds as though your atrial fibrillation is quite refractory and this may be an option.  

Long term drug treatment will have potential side effects from the drugs as well as potentially the developement of a weakness of your heart muscle by being constatnly in a fib.  

Stress may increase the liklihood of being in atrial fibrillation

I hope this has been useful. I wish you the best of luck. Feel free to write back.

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