Understanding Atrial Fibrillation: Symptoms and Treatment Options
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular heartbeat condition increasing risks of stroke and heart failure. Symptoms include rapid heartbeat, fatigue, dizziness, and chest discomfort. Treatment options range from medications and catheter ablation to surgery and lifestyle changes. Managing underlying health issues and adopting healthy habits are essential in preventing and controlling AFib. This comprehensive overview highlights diagnosis and treatment approaches for better heart health, especially in adults over 60, aiming to improve quality of life and reduce risks.
Understanding Atrial Fibrillation: Symptoms and Treatment Options
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a condition marked by an irregular and rapid heartbeat. It increases the risk of heart failure, stroke, and other cardiovascular issues. This occurs when the upper chambers of the heart beat out of sync with the lower chambers, affecting blood circulation. Blood flow becomes uneven, leading to pooling and clot formation. Over 2 million people in the country are affected, especially those over 60 years old.
Common signs of atrial fibrillation include:
- Rapid or irregular heartbeats
- Fatigue and weakness
- Dizziness or feeling lightheaded
- Exhaustion during physical activity
- Breathlessness
- Chest discomfort
Treatment strategies for AFib:
- Medications: Blood thinners, beta-blockers, and calcium channel blockers help control heart rhythm and prevent clots, but may have side effects.
- Non-surgical interventions: Catheter ablation involves guiding a catheter into the heart to restore normal rhythm by targeting specific areas.
- Surgical options: Surgical ablation, where the chest is opened to create scar tissue, helps regulate heart rhythm. Recovery typically restores normal heartbeat over time.
- Addressing underlying conditions: Managing related health issues can improve heart rhythm.
- Lifestyle modifications: Adopting a nutritious diet and regular exercise can lower AFib risk and aid in management.
Higher risk factors include valve diseases, heart failure, cardiomyopathy, and prior heart surgeries. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is critical in prevention.
