Everything About Atrial
Fibrillation (AF)

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common heart rhythm disorder we know of, between 2.7 million to 6.1 million Americans have atrial fibrillation. Some patients suffer the condition constantly, but many others only have it for some periods at a time. Atrial fibrillation can increase your risk of blood clots, unfortunately often in the brain. Additionally atrial fibrillation can weaken the heart’s pumping power, contributing to the risk of heart failure.

For many, atrial fibrillation is associated with reduced quality of life and anxiety about the consequences. Fortunately, knowledge about atrial fibrillation, its consequences and proper treatment can enable you to have a good life – even if you have problems with your heart rhythm. Knowledge of atrial fibrillation, including an understanding of what the arrhythmia does to you – and what treatment options are available – is important in order to ensure a good quality of life.


My 25 years of experience working with atrial fibrillation has shown me that many patients lack access to simple sources to explain the condition. This increases their fear of the condition, and as doctors and other health professionals we are not always sensitive to this. That is the reason that I have developed the blog: Rhythm Doctor.

Symptoms

Symptoms

Are you short of breath? Do you find it more difficult to exercise? Does your heartbeat feel restless? Or maybe you need to use the bathroom more often. If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may have atrial fibrillation.

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Treatment

Treatment

There are different ways to treat atrial fibrillation: medication, electric shock, ablation. It is also important to consider the risk of blood clots during treatment.

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Prevention

prevention

The risk of blood clots, particularly in the brain, is significantly increased by atrial fibrillation. Fortunately it is possible to take measures to reduce your risk of developing the condition through a combination of diet, exercise, and other measures.

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Risk factors

Risk factors

There are a number of risk factors for developing atrial fibrillation. Some can be influenced, but not all.

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Living with atrial fibrillation (AF)

Living with atrial fibrillation (AF)

While atrial fibrillation is unpleasant it is perfectly possible for sufferers to live a good life, enjoying all of the physical and social activities that are close to their hearts.

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