Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a common type of arrhythmia, or heart rhythm disorder. According to the American Medical Association, more than 5 million adults in the United States are living with AFib.
During AFib, the upper chambers (atria) of our heart beat irregularly and rapidly, which may cause blood to pool and clot. This can lead to serious complications such as stroke or heart failure.
The most common cause of AFib is problems with the heart’s structure. Here are other potential causes:
- High blood pressure
- Thyroid disease, such as hyperthyroidism
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Heart diseases such as heart valve disease or coronary artery disease
- Infections
Some people have an increased risk of developing AFib more than others. Risk factors include:
- Obesity
- Lifestyle choices such as smoking or drinking alcohol excessively
- Age, especially individuals over the age of 65
- A family history of AFib
- Having diabetes
- Having chronic kidney disease
- Having had recent heart surgery
Not everyone who has AFib will notice symptoms. However, in other cases, a person may experience:
- Extreme fatigue
- Low blood pressure
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Heart palpitations
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
AFib is often discovered during health checkups because not everyone experiences symptoms. You should see a doctor if you are experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, or dizziness.
To diagnose AFib, your doctor will order an electrocardiogram (ECG) to measure the electrical activity of your heart. They may also order additional tests to test conditions that cause irregular heartbeats.
Treatment for AFib can include medications, surgery, or lifestyle changes. To schedule an appointment with a cardiologist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-7100.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.