Atrial fibrillation, what is it?
Atrial fibrillation (or fibrillation atriale) is a heart rhythm disorder which makes it beat irregularly. It is the most common heart rhythm disorder. During atrial fibrillation, the sinus node (located at the top of the atria of the heart) sends several signals – instead of just one – which will cause an abnormal contraction of the different chambers of the heart. There are 2 atrial fibrillation speeds: slow atrial fibrillation and fast atrial fibrillation (which corresponds to a rhythm of 150 and 300 beats per minute once morest 60 and 99 beats for a heartbeat normal). In addition, there are 2 types of fibrillation:
- The paroxysmal atrial fibrillation occurs in episodes and sometimes lasts several days, between which the rhythm of the heart is regular.
- The permanent atrial fibrillation when the fibrillation is constant and does not return to normal despite medications or other treatments.
What causes atrial fibrillation?
For now, atrial fibrillation can occur without apparent cause. But several factors seem to favor it: age, high blood pressure, sleep apnea… Atrial fibrillation can appear following various ailments such as thyroid dysfunction, viral infection, inflammation, heart disease… Obesity, diabetes, excessive alcohol consumption or taking certain narcotics can also increase the risk of developing atrial fibrillation… eliminate atrial fibrillation.
Atrial fibrillation, is it serious?
While atrial fibrillation often has no immediate health consequences, it should not be taken lightly. Indeed, it may be the cause of blood clot formation which can move around and block an artery. In the case of an artery supplying the brain, this can then cause a stroke (atrial fibrillation is responsible for ? of all strokes); in the case of an artery supplying the heart, this can cause myocardial infarction. Atrial fibrillation can also cause heart failure causing swelling…
What are the symptoms of atrial fibrillation?
The main symptoms of atrial fibrillation ? Accelerated heartbeats, palpitations, sometimes a feeling of pressure in the chest, fatigue, difficulty breathing… The problem? Most people with atrial fibrillation experience no symptoms. And, often, it is during a routine examination that a medical professional discovers this disorder.
The atrial fibrillation treatment combines the treatment of symptoms with medication, associated with the prevention of thromboembolic complications (caused by the formation of a clot) and surgical treatment to eliminate the areas at the origin of abnormal fibrillations. Despite treatment, people with atrial fibrillation are followed by a cardiologist.
Atrial fibrillation, who is affected?
Atrial fibrillation affects 1%* of the general population. It is very present in people over 65: it affects 5% of people over 65 and 10% over 80. Suffering from a heart condition, hyperthyroidism or obesity favors the onset of atrial fibrillation. Top athletes who have practiced endurance sports for a long career are also more prone to atrial fibrillation.
*Atrial or atrial fibrillation: definition and contributing factors, ameli.fr.
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