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Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is a common condition that causes the heart to beat irregularly or too fast. According to a study in the Journal of the American Heart Association, people over age 40 have a one-in-four lifetime risk of developing AFib. That risk increases gradually with age.
One of the reasons it’s so important to diagnose and manage AFib is because this condition can increase the risk of stroke by up to five times and put patients at risk for heart failure, according to the CDC. While some don’t experience any symptoms during AFib, many individuals have reported significant symptoms of breathlessness, reduced ability to engage in strenuous activity and heart palpitations where one’s heart may feel like it’s pounding, fluttering or beating irregularly. All of this makes awareness of risk factors and screening even more important.
Know and monitor your heart health
One of the most common risk factors for AFib is high blood pressure. According to the CDC, this accounts for about one in five cases of AFib. If you have high blood pressure or aren’t sure, it may be time to schedule your regular physical exam with your doctor. They will help you monitor heart health risk factors including your age, weight, blood pressure, cholesterol and other factors that could contribute to heart problems like AFib.
Consider all your health conditions
Several underlying conditions can increase your risk of AFib. One of the most "sneaky" risk factors is undiagnosed sleep apnea. Other risk factors include obesity, diabetes, congestive heart failure, valvular heart disease, ischemic heart disease, kidney disease and hyperthyroidism. Make your health care providers aware of all your health conditions at future health screenings.
Watch for AFib signs and symptoms
Symptoms of AFib can include an irregular heartbeat, palpitations, lightheadedness or dizziness, shortness of breath, faintness or confusion, extreme fatigue, and/or chest discomfort. If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t write them off. Even subtle changes in your health should be discussed with your doctor. Getting an electrocardiogram during the episode can confirm the presence of AFib.
Take control of your habits
Habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, unhealthy sleep patterns and lack of exercise can also increase the risk of AFib. Even relatively low amounts of alcohol of one drink per day can cause a measurable increase in AFib risk. While no alcohol gives the lowest risk of AFib, I advise my patients who do drink to keep their intake to 0-1 drinks per day and never go over two. On a weekly basis, keeping overall alcohol intake to less than five drinks per week is a very good way to lower risk of AFib.
See your doctor for diagnosis and treatment
Since AFib can present with subtle symptoms, regular yearly screenings are crucial, particularly if you're over 65. If you or a family member experience symptoms that could indicate a heart rhythm issue, don't hesitate to consult your primary care doctor or cardiologist.
The earlier AFib is diagnosed, the higher the success rate at controlling it. Treatments include oral medications, such as anticoagulation medications used to reduce stroke risk. One of the most significant technological advancements in AFib treatment that our team at Ascension St. Vincent’s has implemented is the use of catheter ablation. This procedure, using catheters, effectively targets and eliminates the abnormal electrical impulses responsible for AFib. It has proven to be more effective than medication for many patients. However, each case of AFib is unique, requiring a personalized treatment plan.
The first step in getting the care you need is to start a conversation with your doctor about things like new symptoms, health history and risk for heart disease. Don’t delay important heart care, visit ascension.org/jaxheart.
Dr. Anthony Magnano is a Ponte Vedra resident and Chief of Cardiology at Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside.
