Information About Atrial Fibrillation

What is atrial fibrillation?

Atrial fibrillation is an irregular and often rapid heart rate that can lead to complications in the body. Specifically, atrial fibrillation occurs when the heart’s two upper chambers, the atria, beat irregularly, out of coordination with the two lower chambers, the ventricles. According to Americanheart.org, atrial fibrillation can be found in about 2.2 million Americans, with about 15% of strokes occurring in people with atrial fibrillation.  Below are illustrations from Mayoclinic.org that show the difference in the functioning of a normal heart and the heart of someone with atrial fibrillation.

    

Normal Heart

Atrial Fibrillation

What are the symptoms of atrial fibrillation?

Symptoms of atrial fibrillation may include palpitations (racing, uncomfortable, irregular heartbeats or flopping in your chest) of the heart, decreased blood pressure, weakness, lightheadedness, confusion, shortness of breath or chest pain. Some people with the condition have no symptoms and do not know they have it until it is discovered through a physical examination.

It is also important to note that atrial fibrillation may be occasional or chronic. Occasional atrial fibrillation involves symptoms that come and go, only lasting from minutes to hours, and stopping on their own. Chronic atrial fibrillation includes symptoms that are continuous, only stopping with treatment.


What causes atrial fibrillation?

Atrial fibrillation is caused by abnormalities or damage to the structure of the heart. According to Mayoclinic.com, these causes can include:

• High blood pressure
• Heart attacks
• Abnormal heart valves
• Congenital heart defects
• An overactive thyroid or other metabolic imbalance
• Exposure to stimulants such as medications, caffeine, tobacco or alcohol
• Sick sinus syndrome (improper functioning of the hearts natural pacemaker)
• Emphysema or other lung diseases
• Previous heart surgery
• Viral infections
• Stress due to pneumonia, surgery or other illnesses
• Sleep apnea


What factors may increase my risk for atrial fibrillation?

• Age – as you grow older, your risk of developing atrial fibrillation increases.
          – 3-5% of people over 65 have atrial fibrillation
• Heart disease – includes valve problems, history of heart attack and heart surgery
• High blood pressure
• Other chronic conditions – thyroid problems, sleep apnea, etc.
• Drinking alcohol – binge drinking puts you at an even higher risk for atrial fibrillation
• Family history


What can happen if atrial fibrillation is left untreated?

If left untreated, atrial fibrillation can eventually lead to two major complications including stroke and heart failure.

Stroke
The chaotic rhythm of the heart that occurs in atrial fibrillation may cause blood to collect in the atria and form clots. These clots can then dislodge from your heart and travel to your brain where it could potentially block blood flow, resulting in a stroke.

The risk of having a stroke due to atrial fibrillation is heightened when joined with high blood pressure, diabetes or a history of heart failure or stroke.

Heart Failure
Atrial fibrillation can weaken the heart which can lead to heart failure or a condition in which your heart cannot circulate enough blood to meet the needs of your body.


What can I do to lower my risk of atrial fibrillation?

Suggestions for lowering your risk of suffering from atrial fibrillations include:
• Stopping or reducing the amount of caffeinated and alcoholic beverages you consume
• Monitoring the over-the-counter medications you take, as some contain stimulants that can trigger atrial fibrillation
• Following a healthy diet, low in saturated fat, trans fat and cholesterol; high in whole grains, fruits and vegetables
• Not smoking
• Taking part in regular physical activity
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Receiving regular medical care


What are the treatments for atrial fibrillation?

Treatments for atrial fibrillation can include the use of medications, electrical procedures, surgeries and catheterization.

Dr. Preetham Jetty, a leading cardiologist in the state, conducts cardiac clinical trials at Community Clinical Research Center (CCRC) in Anderson, including those that study new treatments for atrial fibrillation.

The benefits of participating in a clinical trial can include:

• Big city medicine in a small town environment.
• Access to new research treatments before they are widely available
• Study-related medication at no cost.
• Access to leading, world-class physician care
• Qualified participants will be compensated for time and travel

For more information on clinical trials, contact CCRC at 765-298-2040.