Atrial fibrillation(Afib) is a common heart condition where the heart beats irregularly and often faster than normal. Normally, the heart beats in a steady rhythm, but in AFib, the heart’s electrical signals become disorganized and cause the heart’s upper chambers to quiver instead of contracting effectively.
AFib can be caused by other medical conditions like high blood pressure, heart valve disorders, sleep apnea, obesity, excessive alcohol or drug use, lung disease, pneumonia, hyperthyroidism, or coronary artery disease. It can also occur in people without any related medical conditions.
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is more common in older individuals but can occur at any age. If you have AFib, you might experience:
– Rapid heartbeat with irregular rhythm
– Fluttering or pounding feeling in your chest
– Excessive sweating
– Chest pain or pressure
– Shortness of breath
– Extreme tiredness
– Dizziness, light-headedness, or fainting
Keep in mind that some people with atrial fibrillation may not experience any symptoms at all.
AFib can be asymptomatic or cause symptoms such as a fluttering sensation in the chest(palpitations), fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, and chest discomfort. Some people may also experience lightheadedness, fainting, or confusion. In some cases, AFib can lead to blood clots, stroke, and heart failure and it can happen even if the usual symptoms are not felt. This is the real danger!!
There are several risk factors for developing AFib, including age, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, smoking, alcohol use, sleep apnea, and underlying heart disease. AFib can also occur in people with no underlying heart problems.
To manage AFib, doctors will perform an electrocardiogram (ECG), which records the heart’s electrical activity. If AFib is confirmed, treatment may involve medications to control heart rate or rhythm, blood thinners to reduce the risk of blood clots and stroke, or procedures such as cardioversion, catheter ablation, or surgery to restore a normal heart rhythm.
Living with AFib requires making certain lifestyle changes, such as managing underlying health conditions, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, and managing stress. It’s also important to follow your doctor’s recommendations for monitoring and treating AFib and also in case you are suffering from comorbidities such as high BP, diabetes, lung problems, etc. Do seek prompt medical attention if you experience any new or worsening symptoms.
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