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Health TopicsHeart and Circulatory SystemArrhythmia
question

How should I recover at home after cardioversion?

Intermountain Healthcare
Intermountain Healthcare
answer

The following are tips for recovery at home after cardioversion:

  • Rest and relax. You may feel weak or tired for the rest of the day, due to the medication you were given to make you sleepy. Be careful as you walk or climb stairs. Do not drive, use dangerous machinery, go to work or make any important decisions for 24 hours, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
  • Take medication as ordered by your doctor. You may need to keep taking blood thinners or heart rhythm medication for several weeks or months afterward, even if the cardioversion is successful.
  • If you had a transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) test, wait to eat or drink until the feeling comes back in your throat, usually a couple of hours. Start with liquids and soft foods such as gelatin, pudding or soup. You might have a sore throat for a few days. Gargling with warm water or using cough drops may help.
  • If you had a cardioversion, you may have red areas on your skin where the cardioversion pads were. These areas may be tender. The soreness and redness should go away in a few days.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.