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Atrial Fibrillation: Causes,
Symptoms,Treatment Options, and Prevention

Latest Blogs By Dr Hansa Gupta

Atrial Fibrillation: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment Options, and Prevention

Atrial fibrillation, commonly known as AFib, is a type of cardiac arrhythmia, which is a condition where the heart beats irregularly. It is estimated that around 1.6 % Indians have AFib, However, it's important to note that the prevalence may vary depending on the study population and methodology used. In this blog, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and prevention of AFib.

Causes of Atrial Fibrillation

AFib occurs when the electrical signals that control the heart's rhythm are disrupted, causing the heart's upper chambers (atria) to contract rapidly and irregularly. The exact cause of AFib is unknown, but certain factors can increase the risk of developing the condition, including:

  • Age : The risk of AFib increases as people get older.
  • High blood pressure : High blood pressure can damage the heart and increase the risk of developing AFib.
  • Heart disease : Any damage or abnormalities in the heart can cause AFib.
  • Thyroid problems : Overactive or underactive thyroid gland can increase the risk of AFib.
  • Alcohol consumption : Drinking too much alcohol can trigger AFib in some people.
Symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation

Some people with AFib may not experience any symptoms. However, some common symptoms include:

  • Irregular heartbeat : The heartbeat can be fast, slow, or irregular.
  • Fatigue : Feeling tired or exhausted even with light physical activity.
  • Shortness of breath : Difficulty breathing or catching breath, even at rest.
  • Chest pain : Chest discomfort or pain that may feel like pressure or squeezing.
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness : Feeling faint or dizzy, sometimes accompanied by fainting.
Treatment Options for Atrial Fibrillation

The goal of treating AFib is to restore normal heart rhythm and prevent blood clots. The treatment options for AFib may include:

  • Medications: Medications such as anticoagulants, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and antiarrhythmic drugs may be used to control the heart rate and rhythm.
  • Cardioversion: In some cases, a medical procedure called cardioversion may be performed, where an electric shock is used to restore the heart's normal rhythm.
  • Catheter ablation: This is a procedure where a catheter is inserted into the heart to destroy the heart tissue that is causing the irregular heartbeat.
  • Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct underlying heart problems that are causing AFib.
Prevention from Atrial Firbrillation

There are several steps people can take to reduce the risk of developing AFib, including:

  • Maintaining a healthy weight: Obesity can increase the risk of AFib, so maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent the condition.
  • Managing underlying health conditions: Controlling high blood pressure, diabetes, and thyroid problems can help prevent AFib.
  • Avoiding alcohol and caffeine: Drinking too much alcohol and caffeine can trigger AFib in some people.
  • Quitting smoking: Smoking can damage the heart and increase the risk of developing AFib.
  • Exercising regularly: Regular exercise can help maintain a healthy heart and reduce the risk of developing AFib.

Atrial Fibrillation is a common type of cardiac arrhythmia that can cause a range of symptoms. While the exact cause of AFib is unknown, there are several factors that can increase the risk of developing the condition. If you experience any symptoms of AFib, it is important to consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. With the right treatment and prevention measures, it is possible to manage the condition and maintain good heart health.