Atenolol follow-up

  Dear Doctors,
       Thank you for answering my question concerning "atenolol and PVC's" a few days ago. Following up that question, what would cause new symptoms after going 5 yrs with not a single problem? Can atrial fib. worsen after time or can a new type of arrythmia develope? Is it common in people to develope new problems or need medication changes after such a long period of time of no problems? Thank you for answering my questions. It is much appreciated. Kent-    ( I scheduled a holtor test next week for more info.)

[CCF Cardio MD - MTR]

Dear Kent, thank you for your question.  Atrial fib can wax and wane and it's not uncommon to develop recurrent atrial fib after a long period of stability.  Alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco can precipitate afib so those should be avoided.  Also, other arrhythmias can develop so the results of your Holter monitor test will help to make a diagnosis.  Whether or not you will need new medications depends on the results of your Holter monitor.  
I hope you find this information useful.  Information provided in the heart forum is for general purposes only.  Only your physician can provide specific diagnoses and therapies. Please feel free to write back with additional questions.
If you would like to make an appointment at the Cleveland Clinic Heart Center, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE or inquire online by using the Heart Center website at www.ccf.org/heartcenter.   The Heart Center website contains a directory of the cardiology staff that can be used to select the physician best suited to address your cardiac problem.