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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Atrial Fibrillation (AFib): Definition and Overview
Introduction
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common type of cardiac arrhythmia, characterized by an irregular and often rapid heartbeat. It occurs when the upper chambers of the heart (atria) beat chaotically, disrupting normal blood flow and increasing the risk of serious complications like stroke and heart failure.
Causes and Risk Factors
AFib can be caused by various factors, including: - High blood pressure (hypertension) - Heart disease (coronary artery disease, heart valve problems, cardiomyopathy) - Excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption - Sleep apnea - Thyroid disorders (hyperthyroidism) - Obesity and metabolic syndrome - Advancing age (more common in individuals over 60) - Genetic predisposition
Symptoms
Some people with AFib may not experience noticeable symptoms, while others may have: - Palpitations (irregular, rapid heartbeat) - Fatigue and weakness - Dizziness or lightheadedness - Shortness of breath - Chest discomfort or pain
Complications
AFib significantly increases the risk of: - Stroke (due to blood clot formation in the atria) - Heart failure (because the heart does not pump efficiently) - Cognitive decline and dementia
Diagnosis
Doctors diagnose AFib using: - Electrocardiogram (ECG) (the primary test) - Holter monitor (a portable ECG for prolonged monitoring) - Echocardiography (to assess heart structure and function) - Blood tests (to check for underlying conditions like thyroid disease)
Treatment
Treatment depends on the severity and cause of AFib but may include: - Medications (to control heart rate, rhythm, and prevent blood clots) - Cardioversion (electrical or drug-induced normal rhythm restoration) - Ablation therapy (destroying problematic heart tissue causing AFib) - Lifestyle changes (healthy diet, stress management, reduced alcohol and caffeine intake)
Conclusion
AFib is a serious but manageable condition. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can significantly reduce complications. Follow your doctor’s advice and maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle to minimize risks.
Source recommendations
1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Atrial Fibrillation
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/atrial-fibrillation
- https://professional.heart.org/en/science-news/2023-acc-aha-accp-hrs-guideline-for-the-diagnosis-and-management-of-atrial-fibrillation
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/atrial-fibrillation/treatment-and-prevention-of-atrial-fibrillation/treatment-options-of-atrial-fibrillation-afib-or-af
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38033089/
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines for the Management of Atrial Fibrillation
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Atrial-Fibrillation
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/45/36/3314/7738779
- https://www.escardio.org/static-file/Escardio/Guidelines/Documents/ehaa612.pdf
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/42/5/373/5899003
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32860505/
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
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