Hi @svend. Your question is straight-forward and concise. The answer could take pages. One reason for that is that the arrhythmia could be any of dozens of variants of A-fib. You mentioned an "episode;" does that mean you recorded the erratic heart beat rhythm once or more often. Was it discovered on an EKG exam, or did you feel it -- once or repetitive, barely felt or rib-rattling? Initiated during sepsis and gall bladder maladies, could the therapy have caused the arrhythmia? I don't ask these questions in order to pry, but to highlight some of the factors you may wish to explore in detail with a cardiologist.

In my case, A-fib was detected only on an EKG; I felt no symptoms and still don't several years later. However, I'm on Coumadin whose active ingredient (Warfarin) has to be monitored regularly with lab tests (unlike Eliquis). Warfarin is vulnerable to Vitamin K, readily available, for example, in dark green vegetables and some meats, so I have to be sure that I maintain a stable intake of those foods -- otherwise I could neutralize the Warfarin and develop small blood clots that could interfere with blood supplies to my brain or other important organs. On the other hand, if too much Warfarin accumulates in my blood (mainly because I carelessly avoided Vitamin K foods for a couple of days or more) I could incur a hemorrhagic stroke and a dangerous internal bleed. I had extensive discussions with my medical team about switching from Warfarin to Eliquis and decided to stay with Warfarin. Since my personal situation was somewhat unique, our reasons for staying with Warfarin may not apply to your or other's situation. Let me know of any information about my situation that you think might be helpful in yours. Martin