Paroxysmal Episodes that last less than 7 days, whether they revert spontaneously or undergo direct current cardioversion. Persistent Episodes that continue for more than 7 days and do not self-terminate. Long-standing Continuous for more than 1 year, despite a rhythm-control strategy. Permanent When the patient and the treating physician decide to accept that the patient will remain in atrial fibrillation and will not attempt to achieve sinus rhythm. Often after a rhythm-control strategy has been unsuccessful.