Atrial fibrillation is a very common condition that can lead to serious complications, and many of those who have it may not even know it. It's a rhythm disorder of the heart characterized by extra heartbeats in the upper chambers of the heart. Atrial fibrillation is the most common cardiac rhythm disorder.
"Atrial fibrillation is more common as you get older," says John Ryan, MD, a cardiologist at Ï㽶ÊÓƵ of Utah Health. "Over the age of 70, about 10% of people could have it."
While many people may have atrial fibrillation, few may be aware of it. Here's why:
- The condition is often silent, meaning that there are no easily identifiable symptoms.
- There are some cases where a patient may be lightheaded, or have shortness of breath, but most often, atrial fibrillation isn't noticed until it is picked up during a doctor's appointment.
- The doctor may notice an irregular pulse and then can confirm the condition with an EKG.
"The concern is that atrial fibrillation may not be caught until it leads to a larger problem," Ryan says.
Patients with atrial fibrillation are at high risk for stroke and heart disease. In some instances, the condition is only discovered after a patient has suffered a stroke and is being treated for that.
Treatment Options
If caught before complications arise, there are many effective treatments for atrial fibrillation that work quite well, including:
- Blood thiners to help prevent clots from forming and possibly causing stroke
- Medications to control heart rate
It's possible for a patient to fall back into atrial fibrillation after their heart sinus rhythm has been restored.
"Sometimes people have to be shocked a couple of times to get the heart rhythm steady," Ryan says. "In other cases, they may need to undergo an ablation procedure to try and break up the electrical circuits in the heart associated with atrial fibrillation."
Risk Factors
Atrial fibrillation patients and those at risk for the condition may need to make some lifestyle changes to eliminate risk factors. Behaviors that can contribute to arrythmias include:
- Too much weight
- Caffeine
- Tobacco
- Alcohol
"If a person is suffering from sleep apnea or high blood pressure, they may have atrial fibrillation or, at the very least, be at risk," Ryan explains. "People with a high alcohol intake are at risk as well."
Why You Should See a Specialist
While having AFib isn't usually life-threatening, people with AFib are more likely to develop other related heart problems. You may have a higher chance of developing stroke or heart failure, which is why it's important to see an AFib clinician, even if you don't have symptoms.
"Atrial fibrillation is common, but should be taken seriously," Ryan says. "Take action before you are at risk by keeping your heart healthy."
