My father (63 y.o) have been having intermittent atrial fibrilation episodes for the last 15 years. It used to be yearly between every episode but lately it has been recurring more often (few months) and lately 2 weeks. The last one (14 days ago) was relieved with Vernakalant (1 dose) while cardioversion was done for the 4 times prior to this. Noteably; all afib episodes occured during the night (9pm -- 4:00 am) and they were always accompanied with strong acid reflux a few hours before an episode occured. I have a few questions regarding this.
Is it better to stay on medications (given that IV vernakalant relieved symptoms from first dose within 4 minutes) or should we go for ablation (I heard there are chances of recurrences)?
Is there a relation between acid reflux and those atrial fibrilation episodes? If so are there any dietary/lifestyle changes that should be carried?