Atrial fibrillation is a serious heart rhythm disorder marked by irregular heartbeat. Discover symptoms, causes, treatments, and lifestyle tips for prevention.
What are the main causes of atrial fibrillation (AFib)?
- High blood pressure damages heart tissue over time, leading to electrical disturbances that trigger atrial fibrillation episodes in susceptible individuals.
- Heart valve disorders disrupt normal blood flow, straining the atria and making irregular heart rhythms like atrial fibrillation more likely.
- Excessive alcohol consumption weakens heart muscle function, increasing the risk of atrial fibrillation in otherwise healthy individuals.
AFib symptoms may appear silently yet dangerously
>>> Discover more: Key facts about Polyarteritis Nodosa you should know
Key symptoms of atrial fibrillation (AFib) to watch for
- Irregular heartbeat or palpitations that feel like fluttering, pounding, or skipping beats in the chest during activity or rest.
- Shortness of breath, fatigue, or reduced exercise capacity, often caused by the heart’s inability to pump blood efficiently.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness, sometimes progressing to fainting, due to poor blood circulation associated with atrial fibrillation.
How can you prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib) effectively?
- Maintain healthy blood pressure through diet, exercise, and regular medical check-ups to lower your risk of atrial fibrillation.
- Limit alcohol and caffeine consumption, which can trigger irregular heart rhythms and increase atrial fibrillation episodes.
- Manage stress with relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation to reduce strain on the heart and prevent atrial fibrillation.
AFib treatment offers hope for heart rhythm control
>>> Understand more about: Giant Cell Arteritis causes symptoms and treatments
Images visual examples of atrial fibrillation (AFib)
Atrial fibrillation is a heart rhythm disorder where the upper chambers beat irregularly and rapidly. Images often show disrupted electrical impulses and chaotic atrial activity.
>>> Discover more: Takayasu's Arteritis signs causes and prevention methods
Managing atrial fibrillation requires early diagnosis, effective treatment, and lifestyle adjustments. Learn to reduce risks and improve heart health today.