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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: Medical Definition and Explanation
Introduction
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of arrhythmia (irregular heart rhythm). It occurs when the upper chambers of the heart (the atria) beat irregularly and out of coordination with the lower chambers (the ventricles). This can lead to various complications, including stroke and heart failure.
What Happens in Atrial Fibrillation?
Normally, the heart's electrical system controls the heartbeat in a coordinated way. In AF, the electrical signals in the atria become chaotic, leading to: - Rapid and irregular contractions of the atria - Inefficient blood flow - Increased risk of blood clot formation
Symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation
Some people may not experience noticeable symptoms, but common symptoms include: - Palpitations (feeling a fast, fluttering, or irregular heartbeat) - Fatigue or weakness - Dizziness or lightheadedness - Shortness of breath - Chest pain (requires immediate medical evaluation)
Causes and Risk Factors
AF can be caused by various conditions, such as: - High blood pressure - Coronary artery disease - Heart valve problems - Thyroid disorders - Excessive alcohol consumption - Sleep apnea
Other risk factors include aging, obesity, and a family history of AF.
Potential Complications
AF significantly increases the risk of stroke because blood clots can form in the atria and travel to the brain. Other complications include heart failure and an increased risk of dementia.
Treatment Options
Treatment aims to control heart rhythm and prevent complications: - Medications: Blood thinners (to prevent stroke), beta-blockers, and anti-arrhythmic drugs - Lifestyle changes: Healthy diet, regular exercise, avoiding alcohol and excessive caffeine - Medical procedures: Cardioversion (electrical shock to restore rhythm) or catheter ablation (destroying abnormal heart tissue)
Conclusion
Atrial fibrillation is a serious but manageable condition. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can reduce the risk of complications and improve quality of life. If you have symptoms or risk factors, consult a doctor promptly.
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 on Atrial Fibrillation
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Atrial-Fibrillation
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/42/5/373/5899003
- https://www.escardio.org/static-file/Escardio/Guidelines/Documents/ehaa612.pdf
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/45/36/3314/7738779
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20802247/
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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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