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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    Do I need to avoid cold beverages if I have atrial fibrillation?

    I was told that I should avoid putting ice in my beverages because cold drinks could bring on an episode. Why is this?
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  • 3

    Thanks

    Dr Andrei Catanchin

    Cardiologist (Heart Specialist)

    Dr Catanchin is a cardiologist and electrophysiologist managing atrial fibrillation and other heart rhythm disorders with medication, devices (ie. pacemakers, defibrillators) and catheter ablation. He … View Profile

    A relatively uncommon type of AF is ‘vagal AF’ where stimuli like sudden very cold drinks can start AF - if this applies to you this is good advice. The only way you'll know is to try it.

    For the majority of people, however, having a cold drink, diving into cold water, vomiting or using the toilet (all of which cause vagal stimulation) do not initiate AF.

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