When it comes to heart health, one condition you may hear about often is atrial fibrillation, also known as AFib. It’s one of the most common heart rhythm problems, especially in adults over the age of 60. While it’s not always dangerous right away, AFib can increase your risk of serious complications if left untreated.
What is Atrial Fibrillation?
AFib is a type of arrhythmia in which the heart beats in an irregular or unusually fast way. In a normal heartbeat, electrical signals travel in a regular pattern to help the heart pump blood smoothly. But in AFib, those signals become chaotic, especially in the upper chambers of the heart (the atria).
As a result:
- The heart may beat too quickly, too slowly, or irregularly
- Blood may not move as efficiently through the heart
- The risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart failure can increase
AFib may be occasional (comes and goes), persistent (lasting longer than a week), or chronic (continuing over time).
Common Symptoms of AFib
Some people with atrial fibrillation notice symptoms right away. Others may not feel anything at all, which is why regular heart checkups are so important.
Watch for these possible signs:
- Fluttering or rapid heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Chest discomfort or tightness
- Fatigue or weakness
- Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
- Trouble exercising or doing daily activities
These symptoms may come and go or last for hours at a time.
What Causes Atrial Fibrillation?
There isn’t always a clear cause, but several factors can increase your risk of developing AFib:
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease or a previous heart attack
- Heart valve issues
- Sleep apnea
- Thyroid problems
- Excessive alcohol intake
- Obesity or diabetes
- Family history of AFib
Even stress, dehydration, or certain medications can sometimes trigger an episode. That’s why it’s helpful to track your symptoms and share them with your doctor.
Other Complications of Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation can increase the risk of several other major health issues, such as:
Stroke
AFib significantly increases your risk of stroke by up to five times compared to those without the condition. When the atria (upper chambers of the heart) beat irregularly, they don’t pump blood efficiently. This can cause blood to pool, especially in a small pouch in the heart called the left atrial appendage. Pooled blood is more likely to form clots. If a clot travels to the brain, it can block a blood vessel, causing a stroke.
Stroke from AFib can be especially severe, leading to:
- Paralysis or loss of motor function
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
- Vision problems
- Cognitive decline
- Death in severe cases
Heart Failure
AFib can weaken your heart over time, leading to heart failure. This is a chronic condition in which the heart can’t pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. The irregular and often rapid heartbeat caused by AFib makes it harder for your heart to fill and pump effectively. When this condition persists for weeks or months, the heart muscle becomes fatigued and may become stretched, thickened, or stiffened. This reduces its pumping ability, leading to fluid buildup, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
Signs of heart failure include:
- Swollen ankles or legs
- Shortness of breath (especially when lying down)
- Persistent coughing or wheezing
- Rapid weight gain due to fluid retention
- Constant tiredness or weakness
Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy refers to disease or damage to the heart muscle. Long-term uncontrolled AFib can cause a specific type known as tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy. When your heart beats too fast or erratically for extended periods, it causes the heart muscle to weaken. This makes it harder for your heart to function efficiently, and over time, can cause changes to the heart’s structure.
Cardiomyopathy increases the risk of:
- Dangerous arrhythmias
- Blood clots
- Sudden cardiac arrest
To Sum It Up
Atrial fibrillation is common, but it shouldn’t be ignored. Recognizing the symptoms and getting the right care early on can prevent serious complications like stroke or heart failure. With proper treatment and lifestyle support, many people with AFib live active, healthy lives.
Contact Memorial Cardiology Associates for the highest quality cardiac services from a team of expert physicians.