What is AFib?

Are you aged 65 or older and you find yourself out of breath, even when you haven’t been moving? You may be suffering from atrial fibrillation (AFib), a type of arrhythmia or irregular heartbeat.

An AFib Attack

During an AFib attack, the electrical signals that tell your heart to start beating becomes out of order. This malfunction affects two upper chambers of the heart (called atria) and causes them to quiver. It also disrupts the blood flow into the lower chambers of the heart or the ventricles, and causes them to contract faster or beat in an irregular manner. Because of this, the ventricles may not be able to pump blood to the rest of your body as it should.

The trembling in your atria may lead to blood pooling which may further cause blood clots. These blood clots may pump out of the heart, go to the brain and cause blockages which may then lead to a stroke.

What Are the Symptoms of AFib?

Quivering or fluttering heartbeat
Irregular heartbeat
Anxiety
Chest pain
Dizziness
Fainting or confusion
Fatigue
Shortness of breath
Sweating
Weakness

The Causes of AFib

Common conditions that lead to AFib are:
Congestive heart failure
Coronary artery disease
Heart valve disease
High blood pressure
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Overactive thyroid gland
Pericarditis (inflammation of the covering of the heart)
Thyroid disease
Heart surgery, taking certain medications and binge drinking may also lead to AFib.

What Are the Treatment Options for AFib?

Medications for heart rate and rhythm
Blood thinners that can prevent blood clots and thus reduce risk of stroke
Electrophysiology treatments such as pacemaker placement or ablation
Lifestyle changes (i.e., consuming a healthier diet and exercising regularly)

How Can You Reduce Your Risk for AFib?

Consuming a heart-healthy diet
Maintaining a healthy weight
Exercising regularly
Managing your blood pressure
Managing stress
Avoiding smoking
Limiting your alcohol and caffeine intake

If you are experiencing signs or symptoms of AFib, call or find the nearest Saint Francis Cardiology Associates location at https://sfmp-tpr.tenethealth.com/locations. AFib may come and go, but it may also be permanent and may increase your risk for stroke and blood clots, so please seek care before it even gets worse. Your heart care is our #1 priority.

Sources:

American Heart Association

Centers for Disease Control