Atrial fibrillation, sometimes shortened to ‘AFib’ or ‘AF’, is a condition that causes irregular heartbeat. Although quite common, especially in older people, it can be serious if not treated. Here, we take a closer look at what atrial fibrillation is, why it happens and who it affects.
What is atrial fibrillation?
Dr. Mohamed AlJaabari, Staff Physician in Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s Heart and Vascular Institute explains, “Atrial fibrillation is a condition that causes an irregular heartbeat. It is the most common form of heart rhythm disturbance, but if it is not treated, it can be serious. It happens when electrical impulses that control your heart rate are fired in a disorganized and irregular way, causing the heartbeat to quicken or ‘flutter’.”
What are the symptoms of atrial fibrillation?
Some symptoms can include:
- Heart palpitations (a feeling that the heart is skipping a beat, fluttering, or beating too fast)
- Tiredness
- Shortness of breath
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Confusion
Why does atrial fibrillation happen?
In a normal heartbeat, the two upper chambers of the heart known as the atria contract, followed by contraction of the two lower chambers, known as the ventricles. The timing of these contractions allows the heart to pump blood around the body effectively. This is controlled by the heart’s electrical system, which can adjust the rate of these impulses in response to our activity. For example, it can increase the rate of contractions to pump more blood around the body when we exercise, or it can decrease impulses when we are sleeping.
Dr. AlJaabari explains, “Atrial fibrillation happens when there is a problem with the electrical impulses that cause the heart to contract. This leads to a rapid fire of impulses, causing a fast and chaotic heartbeat. Because the contractions are happening so fast, the heart doesn’t have enough time to contract fully and can’t squeeze all the blood out, so it is not pumped around the body as effectively.”
Who does atrial fibrillation affect?
Atrial fibrillation can affect adults at any age, but it is more common in older people. It is thought to affect around 7% of people over the age of 65 and it is more common in men. Some people are able to live for many years without any problems, but it can lead sometimes lead to serious future problems such as stroke or heart failure.
What causes atrial fibrillation?
There isn’t believed to be one single cause of atrial fibrillation, but certain risk factors, such as family history, as well as age and gender, can put you more at risk. It is often more common in people who have other conditions, including:
- Cardiomyopathy
- Chronic lung disease
- Congenital heart disease
- Coronary heart disease
- Heart failure
- Heart valve disease
- High blood pressure
- Pulmonary embolism
- Diabetes
- Asthma
Living with atrial fibrillation
If you have atrial fibrillation, there is an increased risk of having a stroke, however, this can be reduced by taking medication to thin the blood. Risk can also be reduced by leading a healthier lifestyle. Things like eating healthily and exercising to maintain a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and taking steps to reduce cholesterol and blood pressure can also reduce the risk.
With the right medical care, atrial fibrillation can be managed and patients can lead full and active lives. If you think you may have experienced any of the symptoms, or you have any concerns about your general heart health, always talk to your doctor.
You can also find out more information about out Heart Rhythm Abnormalities Program here.