How does oral health affect the heart?
Poor oral health also seems to put a strain on the heart. According to a recent study, the risk of atrial fibrillation at present periodontitis.
In a new study involving experts from Hiroshima University in Japan it was investigated whether there is a connection between periodontitis and fibrosis in atrial fibrillation. The results are published in the English-language journal “JACC: Clinical Electrophysiology” released.
76 people with atrial fibrillation studied
The team examined a total 76 peopleall below atrial fibrillation suffered and for whom cardiac surgery was planned. All participants underwent an oral examination.
The researchers use various factors such as the number of remaining teeth and the extent (surface) of the tooth periodontal inflammation as a parameter for evaluating periodontitis. In addition, the degree of fibrosis determined in the auricles.
Atrial fibrosis due to periodontitis
It turned out that periodontitis actually increases the risk for one fibrosis elevated in the heart. For example, there was a strong correlation between the extent of periodontal inflammation and atrial fibrosis in participants who only had ten teeth or fewer, the team reports.
The researchers add that even following adjusting the data for various factors that might affect the results, such as age, body mass index (BMI), diabetes and prior stroke, the periodontally inflamed surface significantly with Vorhoffibrose was associated.
What is atrial fibrosis?
Atrial fibrosis is a disease of the heartat which scar tissue forms in the atrium of the heart and impairs the function of the atrium.
This can cause symptoms like heartache, shortness of breath and cardiac arrhythmias lead and the risk of a heart failure increase.
In addition, atrial fibrosis is associated with atrial fibrillation, which in turn is a risk factor for a stroke gilt.
Periodontitis appears to increase risk of atrial fibrillation
In the study, the researchers were able to demonstrate a connection between periodontitis and atrial fibrosis, which is why they conclude that strong>periodontitis is probably a Risk factor for atrial fibrillation the picture.
Periodontitis is mostly caused by bacterial plaques respectively dental plaque caused and also factors such as that Smoking, Diabetes and Stress can play a role.
However, thorough oral hygiene can prevent the inflammatory disease, which according to the current study reduces the risk of atrial fibrillation, which ultimately leads to one fatal stroke might lead. (as)
Author and source information
This text corresponds to the requirements of medical specialist literature, medical guidelines and current studies and has been checked by medical professionals.
Sources:
- Sho Okumara, Shunsuke Miyauchi, Hiromi Nishi, Kazuhisa Ouhara, Takehito Rokuyama, et al.: Relationship Between Periodontitis and Atrial Fibrosis in Atrial Fibrillation: Histological Evaluation of Left Atrial Appendages; in: JACC: Clinical Electrophysiology (veröffentlicht Volume 9, Issue 1, Januar 2023, Pages 43-53), JACC: Clinical Electrophysiology
Important NOTE:
This article contains general advice only and should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment. He can not substitute a visit at the doctor.