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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 (AF): Meaning and Explanation
Introduction
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common type of heart arrhythmia, meaning an irregular heartbeat. It occurs when the upper chambers of the heart (the atria) beat chaotically and out of sync with the lower chambers (the ventricles). This leads to an irregular and often rapid heart rate, which can reduce the heart's efficiency in pumping blood to the body.
Why is AF Important?
AF is a serious condition because it increases the risk of blood clots forming in the heart, which can travel to the brain and cause a stroke. It is also associated with heart failure and other complications if left untreated.
Causes of AF
AF may be caused by: - High blood pressure (hypertension) - Heart disease (such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, or valve diseases) - Diabetes - Sleep apnea - Excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption - Thyroid disorders - Aging (more common in older adults)
Symptoms of AF
Not everyone with AF experiences symptoms, but common signs include: - Irregular or rapid heartbeat (palpitations) - Shortness of breath - Fatigue - Dizziness or lightheadedness - Chest discomfort
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is usually confirmed with an electrocardiogram (ECG). Additional tests, such as echocardiography or Holter monitoring, may be needed.
Treatment Strategies:
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Medications :
- Blood thinners (anticoagulants) to prevent clots and reduce stroke risk
- Rate control medicines (such as beta-blockers) to slow the heart rate
- Rhythm control medicines (antiarrhythmics) to restore normal heart rhythm
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Procedures :
- Electrical cardioversion (using a controlled electric shock to restore normal rhythm)
- Catheter ablation (destroying abnormal heart tissue that triggers AF)
- Pacemakers (in some cases, to regulate heart rhythm)
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Lifestyle Changes :
- Managing high blood pressure and diabetes
- Reducing alcohol and caffeine intake
- Maintaining a healthy weight
AF is a complex but manageable condition. With appropriate treatment, many patients can lead a normal life while minimizing complications.
Source recommendations
1. 2023 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association/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.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jacc.2023.10.021
- https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/ten-points-to-remember/2023/11/27/19/46/2023-acc-guideline-for-af-gl-af
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!
Our advantages:
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