7: In most cases it makes the symptoms disappear or be drastically reduced. It also reduces the episodes in most cases. Last, it usually makes it so rhythm drugs that didn't work before start working.

Some people have years of freedom from afib with 1 ablation and some with 2. "Years" can mean 5. 7, 10, or more. It could also mean forever, but the newest techniques they are most hopeful about have been around about 5 years (depending on what level of "newest" we are talking about. Things such as advanced mapping and pressure sensitive techniques are newer than 5 years). So no-one knows.

Maybe in 5, 7, or 10 years they will have a cure. Some people want to wait. Some want to be out of afib while they wait. It's a personal choice.

If someone had the ultimate answer we wouldn't have to have afib support groups where people discuss options and debate the best course of action.

petey

great reply pacy

Find a good EP if you don't already have one, do your research and have a good discussion with your doc. Having an ablation is a personal decision. I think most of us that have had them got to the point the fib was really interfering with our quality of life. It was for me so I had one in Dec 2013, I have had 2 8 hour episodes since then and not sure if was because my thyroid was out of whack or the meds I was given at the dentist. I do know the severity was so much less then before the ablation. Everyone is different, you will find your way and what is right for you. Take care!