Understanding Atrial Fibrillation: Symptoms, Risks, and Management
Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is a common heart rhythm disorder that affects over 500,000 Australians. It occurs when the heart's upper chambers, the atria, beat irregularly and out of sync with the lower chambers, the ventricles. This disrupts normal blood flow, increasing the risk of blood clots, stroke, heart failure, and other heart-related complications. Understanding the signs, risks, and management options for AFib can help people take proactive steps toward better heart health.
What Causes Atrial Fibrillation? AFib can stem from several factors, often related to heart disease or lifestyle choices. Risk factors include high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, sleep apnea, obesity, and excessive alcohol or caffeine intake. AFib may also have a genetic component, making it more likely to occur if there’s a family history of the condition. While age increases the likelihood of AFib, the condition can affect people of all ages.
Symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation The symptoms of AFib vary greatly; some individuals experience no symptoms at all, while others may notice noticeable changes, such as:
Heart Palpitations: The sensation of an irregular, rapid, or pounding heartbeat.
Fatigue or Weakness: Feeling tired or weak during routine activities.
Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or a sensation of tightness in the chest, especially during physical exertion.
Chest Pain or Discomfort: Some individuals feel discomfort or even pain in the chest.
Dizziness or Lightheadedness: AFib can reduce blood flow, causing symptoms of lightheadedness.
Why Is AFib Dangerous? AFib disrupts the efficient pumping action of the heart, allowing blood to pool in the atria, increasing the risk of blood clots. If a clot travels to the brain, it can lead to a stroke, which is five times more likely in people with AFib. Long-term AFib can also lead to heart failure by weakening the heart muscle.
Managing AFib Management of AFib involves lifestyle changes, medication, and sometimes procedures. Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, eating a heart-healthy diet, and maintaining regular exercise can help manage AFib. Medications like anticoagulants reduce stroke risk, while beta-blockers or rhythm-control drugs help regulate heart rate. In some cases, doctors may recommend procedures like catheter ablation or cardioversion.
Early diagnosis and consistent management are key to reducing complications.