You’ve probably heard the term “AFib” (atrial fibrillation), but do you know what it means, how it feels, or the risks that often accompany it?
There are a couple of key points you should know. First, while AFib is a significant cardiac condition, you have multiple options for evaluation and treatment. Second, multiple conditions have been identified that contribute to increasing the risk of stroke associated with AFib, which is one of the biggest concerns associated with the underlying condition of AFib.
So, what is AFib?
Atrial fibrillation is an irregular and often rapid heart rhythm. The heart's upper chambers beat chaotically, irregularly, inefficiently, and out of sync with the lower heart chambers. Episodes may come and go, or they may be constant. AFib can lead to blood clots in the heart and increases the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other heart-related complications.
How will I know if I have AFib?
Symptoms for AFib differ for each person, and some have no symptoms at all. However, here are some of the symptoms you should look out for:
- A fast, fluttering or pounding heartbeat
- Chest pain
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
What causes AFib?
The exact cause of AFib is variable and, at times unknown, but it's more common with age and affects certain groups of people more than others. Heart diseases and health problems that can cause AFib include:
- Something you’re born with (congenital heart defect)
- A problem with the heart's natural pacemaker (sick sinus syndrome)
- A sleep disorder (obstructive sleep apnea)
- Heart attack
- Heart valve disease
- High blood pressure
- Lung diseases, including pneumonia
- Narrowed or blocked arteries (coronary artery disease)
- Thyroid disease such as an overactive thyroid
- Infections from viruses
What can I do to reduce or prevent AFib?
While you can’t control some risks of AFib, such as family history and age, there are steps you can take to lower your risk.
- Remove or reduce use of alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine
- Manage your blood pressure and cholesterol
- Reduce salt and saturated fats from your diet
- Watch your weight
- Exercise at least 30 minutes a day most days of the week (unless your healthcare team says not to)
- Get a good night’s sleep
- Reduce and manage stress
When do I need to see a doctor?
If you have symptoms of AFib, make an appointment with your primary care provider. You may need to be referred to a cardiologist. If you do have AFib, it is important to review treatment options to prevent stroke with your provider.
If you have chest pain, get emergency medical help right away. Chest pain could mean that you're having a heart attack.
For more information on Northern Light Cardiology services, visit northernlighthealth.org/heart-care.