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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 and Heart Rate
Introduction
Atrial fibrillation, commonly called AFib, is an irregular and often rapid heart rhythm (arrhythmia) that can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure, and other heart-related complications. It occurs when the electrical signals in the heart’s atria (upper chambers) become chaotic, leading to inefficient pumping of blood.
How Does AFib Affect Heart Rate?
- Normally, the heart beats in a regular rhythm (60-100 beats per minute at rest).
- In AFib, the atria quiver instead of contracting normally, and the electrical impulses reach the ventricles unpredictably.
- This results in a rapid and irregular heart rate , often exceeding 100 beats per minute.
Symptoms of AFib with a High Heart Rate
- Palpitations (fast, fluttering, or pounding heartbeat)
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fatigue
- Chest discomfort or pain
Why is Controlling Heart Rate Important in AFib?
A persistently high heart rate can weaken the heart over time, leading to a condition called tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy . Proper heart rate management can reduce symptoms, improve quality of life, and decrease the risk of heart failure.
Treatment Options for Controlling Heart Rate in AFib
1. Medications
- Beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol, atenolol) – Slow the heart rate
- Calcium channel blockers (e.g., diltiazem, verapamil) – Help regulate electrical signals
- Digoxin – Sometimes used in specific cases
2. Electrophysiological Interventions
- Catheter ablation – A procedure that destroys chaotic electrical pathways
- AV node ablation with pacemaker implantation – An option for uncontrollable AFib
3. Lifestyle Changes
- Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques
- Exercise as recommended by a doctor
When to See a Doctor?
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience: - Severe chest pain or pressure - Fainting or near-fainting - Uncontrolled rapid heart rate despite treatment
Conclusion
Atrial fibrillation can significantly impact your heart rate and overall health. Proper management with medications, procedures, and lifestyle changes can help control your symptoms and improve heart function. If you have AFib, work closely with your doctor to monitor your condition and ensure you receive the best treatment.
Source recommendations
1. 2023 American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology/Heart Rhythm Society Guideline for the Management of Patients With Atrial Fibrillation
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38033089/
- https://www.hrsonline.org/guidance/clinical-resources/2023-accahaaccphrs-guideline-diagnosis-and-management-patients-atrial-fibrillation
- https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/ten-points-to-remember/2023/11/27/19/46/2023-acc-guideline-for-af-gl-af
- https://professional.heart.org/en/science-news/2023-acc-aha-accp-hrs-guideline-for-the-diagnosis-and-management-of-atrial-fibrillation
2. 2020 European Society of Cardiology Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Atrial Fibrillation
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32860505/
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/42/5/373/5899003
- https://www.escardio.org/static-file/Escardio/Guidelines/Documents/ehaa612.pdf
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Atrial-Fibrillation
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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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