About-Cardio
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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.
Is Atrial Fibrillation (AF) Dangerous?
Introduction
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an irregular and often rapid heart rhythm that can increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other heart-related complications. It is one of the most common heart rhythm disorders worldwide, affecting millions of people.
Why is AF Dangerous?
AF is considered dangerous for several key reasons:
1. Increased Risk of Stroke
- When the atria (upper chambers of the heart) do not pump blood efficiently, blood can pool and form clots.
- These clots can travel to the brain, causing a stroke.
- AF increases stroke risk by 4-5 times compared to individuals without AF.
2. Heart Failure and Cardiomyopathy
- Persistent AF can weaken the heart over time, leading to heart failure.
- The irregular rhythm may contribute to cardiomyopathy (a disease of the heart muscle).
3. Other Complications
- Blood clots in other organs (e.g., kidneys, lungs) can cause serious damage.
- Dizziness and fainting due to poor blood circulation.
- Cognitive decline and dementia, as AF has been linked to reduced brain blood flow.
Can AF Be Treated?
Yes! Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and risk factors:
1. Blood Thinners (Anticoagulants)
- Essential for stroke prevention in patients who have risk factors.
2. Heart Rate Control
- Medications like beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers help keep the heart rate normal.
3. Heart Rhythm Control
- Medications or procedures such as cardioversion (resetting heart rhythm) or catheter ablation.
4. Lifestyle Modifications
- Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine.
- Maintain a healthy weight and treat underlying conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes.
Conclusion
AF is a serious condition that should not be ignored. However, with the right approach, the risks can be effectively managed. If you or someone you know has AF, it is crucial to consult a cardiologist for an individualized treatment plan.
Source recommendations
1. European Society of Cardiology (ESC) 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/32860505/
2. American Heart Association (AHA) Guidelines on Atrial Fibrillation
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
- 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
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38033089/
- https://newsroom.heart.org/news/sweetened-drinks-linked-to-atrial-fibrillation-risk
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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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Best practices from USA, EU and Japan
Our answers to your questions are based on the clinical recommendations of countries with the most developed healthcare systems in the field of cardiology in the USA, the EU and Japan.
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We monitor all innovations and changes in the field of cardiac disease treatment on a daily basis.
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Every 3-5 years, half of the scientific approaches to treatment in the field of cardiology are reviewed as a result of specialized scientific discoveries. With us, you don't have to wait these years to learn about the best ways to treat you and your loved ones.