What is rate control in the context of atrial fibrillation treatment?

In the context of atrial fibrillation treatment, rate control refers to the management of the heart rate to ensure it remains within a normal range. Atrial fibrillation often leads to an irregular and sometimes rapid heart rate, which can result in symptoms like palpitations, fatigue, and shortness of breath. The goal of rate control is to slow down the heart rate, allowing the ventricles (the lower chambers of the heart) to fill and pump blood more effectively.

This approach helps alleviate symptoms and reduces the risk of complications associated with persistently high heart rates. Medications such as beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and digoxin are commonly used to achieve this control. By focusing on the heart rate rather than trying to restore a normal rhythm immediately, treatment can improve patient comfort and overall heart function.

In contrast, the other options relate to different interventions like restoring rhythm or surgical corrections, which are not aimed primarily at rate control.