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.
Atrial Fibrillation and Pulse
Introduction
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common heart rhythm disorder where the heart beats irregularly and often rapidly. This irregularity affects the way the pulse is felt and can lead to significant health risks.
Understanding the Pulse in Atrial Fibrillation
1. Why is the pulse irregular?
- In a normal heart, electrical signals are coordinated, leading to a steady rhythm.
- In AF, chaotic electrical activity causes the atria (upper chambers of the heart) to quiver rather than contract regularly.
- This results in an irregular and sometimes fast ventricular response, making the pulse feel erratic.
2. How does an AF pulse feel?
- Irregular intervals between beats (unpredictable rhythm)
- Sometimes fast (over 100 bpm) or slower depending on medication or underlying condition
- Some beats may feel weaker due to inefficient blood pumping
Health Risks of an Irregular Pulse in AF
- Increased risk of stroke due to clot formation in the heart
- Heart failure from prolonged rapid rates
- Dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath due to poor blood circulation
Diagnosing Atrial Fibrillation
- Pulse check: Feeling an irregular pulse at the wrist
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): The gold standard for confirming AF
- Holter monitor: Records heart rhythm over 24–48 hours
Treatment Options
1. Rate Control:
- Medications like beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol) or calcium channel blockers (e.g., diltiazem) slow down the heart rate.
2. Rhythm Control:
- Drugs like amiodarone or procedures like electrical cardioversion to restore normal rhythm.
3. Stroke Prevention:
- Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin, apixaban) to prevent blood clots.
Conclusion
Atrial fibrillation leads to an irregular pulse, which can cause serious health issues. Regular monitoring, lifestyle changes, and appropriate treatment significantly reduce risks and improve quality of life.
Source recommendations
1. 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
2. European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Atrial Fibrillation
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Atrial-Fibrillation
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32860505/
- https://www.escardio.org/static-file/Escardio/Guidelines/Documents/ehaa612.pdf
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/42/5/373/5899003
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
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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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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.